DESSERT

“If you’re afraid of butter, use cream.” – Julia Child

PIOUS- the brightly colored open-air Terrace restaurant that serves breakfast all day and night. Mind you, the concept of breakfast at Norma’s can be a no-holds-barred extravaganza of decadent proportions — it’s a habit picked up from her sister restaurant — also ‘Norma’s’ — located in New York City. But there is no denying a contagious feeling of both calm and delight as you pull up a chair or slide into a booth to peruse the menu. Go spare and minimalist with the simplicity of poached eggs and half a grapefruit or go maximalist with any one of the french toast, waffle, or pancake concoctions. Go gluten free, vegan or vegetarian — they serve to change it up and please. The white slump block and wood interior of Norma’s is a room open, friendly and bright throughout the day — cozy, votive-lit, and discreet at night when the menu changes to a short selection of California fresh, clean entrees prepared to classic perfection or with the subtlest twist to standard. Comfortable, low-key, effortless.