L.A.'s Felix Restaurant Gives the Feel of Grandma's House a Modern Setting

Everybody loves a home-cooked meal, but not everybody has a seasoned Italian grandmother to make it for them. Although Felix, a new restaurant located on L.A.'s famed Abbot Kinney boulevard in Venice Beach, may not have an actual nonna in the kitchen, its warm interior could fool you into thinking you're in a home. In fact, owner Janet Zuccarini, designer Wendy Haworth, and chef Evan Funke planned it that way. Archways lead from the bar into open dining areas that are punctuated by vintage light fixtures, classic fabrics, and floral wallpaper that are, by all means, throwback design sensibilities. Nevertheless, the arrangement still feels modern. Why? Trendy shades like teal and charcoal keep the look fresh, while dark wood accents and big windows never go out of style. The big draw to this locale may be the eatery's impeccable Italian menu, but don't forget to come up for air and look around. The mix of modern and traditional touches matches those dishes completely, and makes for a design that's comfortingly inviting — just like grandma's house.