Lemon Poppy Kitchen is a delightful and popular neighborhood café located in the Glassell Park area of Los Angeles. Known for its warm, welcoming vibe and unique menu, it offers a special blend of Romanian and Mexican-inspired dishes. Since its opening in 2012, Lemon Poppy Kitchen has become a go-to spot for locals who appreciate fresh, handmade food and a cozy atmosphere. It started as a small venture at a farmers market and has grown into a full-service restaurant that keeps its community spirit alive.
The café’s name might sound sweet and simple, but behind it lies a passionate journey of three dedicated individuals who believed in good food and building community connections. Lemon Poppy Kitchen stands out not just for its dishes but also for its story, ambiance, and the love poured into every plate.
Origins and Founders
The story of Lemon Poppy Kitchen began in 2011 when three individuals—Katie Kildow, Anca Caliman, and Jack Wilson—met at a downtown Los Angeles farmers market. Each of them brought a unique culinary background and vision to the table. Katie was known for her homemade preserves, which drew in many market visitors. Anca and Jack had a food stall called Anca’s Romanian, where they served traditional Romanian dishes. Their shared love for handmade, flavorful food led them to join forces.
In 2012, the trio decided to open Lemon Poppy Kitchen in Glassell Park. The goal was to create a space that served high-quality, handmade food using fresh ingredients, all while offering a warm and inviting space for the neighborhood. The café started small but quickly gained popularity due to its unique offerings and friendly vibe.
Anca’s Romanian heritage played a major role in shaping the menu, while Katie’s skills with baking and preserves added sweetness and creativity. Jack brought management expertise and a love for hospitality. Together, they created more than just a café—they built a community hub.
Culinary Offerings
Lemon Poppy Kitchen is best known for its unique blend of Eastern European and Mexican dishes. The menu reflects the diverse backgrounds of the owners and the multicultural essence of Los Angeles. The food is made from scratch, and the flavors are rich and memorable.
One of the signature items on the menu is the plachinta, a Romanian flatbread filled with savory or sweet ingredients. Customers love the version filled with dill and feta cheese. Another standout dish is the chicken paprikash, a comforting and flavorful stew made with paprika-spiced chicken and served with creamy polenta. These dishes give diners a taste of Anca’s Romanian roots.
On the Mexican side, the chicharron tacos are a favorite. The crispy pork, fresh toppings, and homemade salsa make for a bold and satisfying bite. The menu also includes breakfast favorites like the biscuit sandwich with zhoug aioli—a spicy Middle Eastern sauce that adds a fresh twist.
Vegetarians and vegans are also well cared for. The parsnip pozole is a delicious vegan take on the traditional Mexican soup, full of rich flavors and hearty ingredients. For those with a sweet tooth, the café offers a variety of baked goods, such as ricotta coffee cake, buttery biscuits, and fresh muffins, all made in-house.
Everything at Lemon Poppy Kitchen is made with attention to detail. From the sauces to the sides, every component is handmade, making each dish feel personal and authentic.
Ambiance and Design
When you walk into Lemon Poppy Kitchen, the first thing you notice is the warm and inviting atmosphere. The space feels cozy and full of charm, with a mix of vintage and modern design elements. The café is filled with natural light, thanks to large windows, and features vintage-style wallpaper, warm-toned tiles, and wooden accents that make it feel like a welcoming home kitchen.
A recent remodel has only enhanced this ambiance. The updated space is brighter and more open, creating a peaceful place to enjoy breakfast or lunch. There’s a small outdoor seating area as well, perfect for sunny Los Angeles mornings. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick coffee or enjoying a leisurely meal, the café’s design encourages you to relax and stay awhile.
The attention to detail in the interior reflects the care that goes into the food. Every part of Lemon Poppy Kitchen, from the plates to the lighting, is chosen with love and thoughtfulness.
Community Engagement
Lemon Poppy Kitchen isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a community gathering spot. The owners have always placed great value on building connections with their customers and neighborhood. This sense of community is part of what makes the café so special.
Throughout the years, the café has hosted events and celebrations, including a 12th-anniversary party that brought together regulars and newcomers alike. They’ve also introduced happy hour specials to encourage neighbors to stop by and relax after work.
One of the café’s most appreciated features is its dog-friendly patio. Customers often bring their pets, knowing they’ll be welcomed with a smile. The staff even offers water bowls for furry friends, adding a personal touch to the experience.
In addition to serving great food, the café supports local businesses by sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. This not only helps the local economy but also ensures that the dishes are fresh and seasonal.
Staff and Culture
Behind every great restaurant is a great team, and Lemon Poppy Kitchen is no exception. The staff is known for being friendly, passionate, and hardworking. One inspiring story is that of Aracelly Flores, who started at the café as a dishwasher and worked her way up to become the head baker.
Her journey reflects the supportive and inclusive culture at Lemon Poppy Kitchen. The owners believe in recognizing talent, providing growth opportunities, and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued. This attitude shows in the way the staff interacts with customers—always smiling, always helpful.
The café is also deeply committed to using handmade and locally sourced ingredients. They make nearly everything from scratch, from jams and sauces to bread and pastries. This not only ensures quality but also adds a layer of love and craftsmanship to every meal.
Conclusion
Lemon Poppy Kitchen is more than just a place to eat—it’s a space where food, culture, and community come together. With its unique menu blending Romanian and Mexican flavors, cozy ambience, and heartfelt service, it has earned its place as a beloved spot in Los Angeles. Whether you’re stopping by for a hearty breakfast, grabbing a homemade pastry, or spending time with friends on the patio, Lemon Poppy Kitchen offers a welcoming experience that feels like home. The story behind it, the people who run it, and the flavors they serve all combine to create something truly special. In a city as big and diverse as Los Angeles, Lemon Poppy Kitchen stands out by staying true to its roots, valuing its people, and always serving up food with heart.
