F4tF: Los Angeles Adventure, Pt. 3
When I went to LA, I got recommendations on where to go from friends, co-workers, chef’s I know, people they know…you get the idea. My chef friend who I was staying with said to me on my FIRST DAY in LA, before you leave on Sunday, make sure you go to Mashti Malone’s which is near the corner of La Brea and Sunset in West Hollywood. So on the day before I left, I went for a walk down Melrose Ave, starting at Fairfax and walking to La Brea, then made the left and took La Brea past Sunset eventually to 1525 North La Brea Avenue, home to Mashti Malone’s.
Inside is a very nondescript interior with the main focal points being all of the signs and information on the walls. You get the feeling real quick that these guys are passionate about what they do and have been doing it since 1980 (30 years!) at the same location.
Here is an excerpt from a 2006 LA Times review
Mashti Malone’s. For those expecting Iranian-Irish fusion, the only place you’ll get that is on the street sign. This is a classic ice cream store run by two Iranian brothers who took over a place called Bugsy Malone’s about 25 years ago and only changed half the sign. Whatever works — the ice cream sure does, and they’ll turn any flavor into a shake for you. You’ll find the traditional American flavors, but also some fabulous Middle Eastern infusions: saffron-rose water with pistachios is the most popular. Laced with floral notes and the terrific flavor and texture of the nuts, this makes a fabulous shake, though ginger-rose water and orange blossom are pretty fabulous too. Or try the pomegranate sorbet or “herbal snow,” a white, icy concoction made with basil seeds. 1525 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles; (323) 874-0144, http://www.mashtimalone.com . Shakes, $4.82.
READ ON for more on Jon’s Los Angeles Adventure…
