[dropcap size=big]B[/dropcap]aroo is located in the heart of East Hollywood, right in the middle of strip mall country. The strip mall restaurant isn't unique to Los Angeles, but inspiring, world-changing strip mall food is something we both invented and perfected, with variations such as the original Nozawa to Trois Mec immediately coming to mind. Even the original Spago on Sunset Boulevard was in a strip-mall like space above the Budget Car Rental. The latest strip mall wonder that's about to take the city by storm is Baroo, which is slightly complicated to find, considering there’s no sign and it’s next to a partially vacant, soon-to-open 7-11. Once you get inside, however, there’s nothing nearby that matches the magic happening in this little room.
The chalkboard menu welcomes you with detailed descriptions of their offerings. It’s hard to decide on what to order since everything looks and sounds so intriguing. Luckily, every dish is innovative and flavorful, so there’s no way to go wrong. One constant is the use of fermented ingredients (all organic and sustainable, by the way), which are present in every plate.
While you’re contemplating your order, next to the counter there is a fridge which holds a selection of house-made kombuchas. You can pick from rose, lemon verbena, or raspberry flavor. If you like kombucha, you'll appreciate how the tart, not too sweet concoction pairs perfectly well with Baroo’s food. They also offer cold brew Bicycle Coffee if you need some caffeine.