Erica's Picks: Good Eats and Rock 'n' Roll at Tuning Fork

Foodies of the Valley, another restaurant is here to delight. The newly opened Tuning Fork gastropub on Ventura Place is a miniature Laurel Tavern with healthier options…and a little rock 'n' roll. Co-owners and fellow musicians Joseph Kuras and Martin Heynen are behind the small, but airy and modern restaurant. The menu boasts "Los Angeles comfort food" but still caters to the non-dairy, gluten-free, veganites. No liquor license needed because the selection of interesting ales and unique small-production wines marry perfectly with their simple dishes with complex flavor. The farm-fresh ingredients aren't over seasoned or over sauced, instead paired smartly to bring out the natural and delicious flavor of each.

If you're there for lunch, you can't go wrong with Arabian Winds vegan flatbread – hearty flatbread topped with silky babaganoush, falafel and Mediterranean veggies; or opt for some real southern comfort with the fried chicken and maple syrup gravy. It's sinful! The dinner menu expands and offers their signature "Birdsong" dish featuring braised chicken with a stout beurre blanc (definitely a musician's take on the classic beurre blanc). On the lighter side, opt for the vegan, gluten-free, non-dairy burger made with lentils and eggplant - satisfying and guilt-free.

With only 50 seats, it fills up quickly so get there before 6:30pm to ensure a table for dinner, or opt for lunch and surely find a spot to rock out and eat well. Restaurant hours are 11am-10pm, Tuesday through Sunday (closed on Mondays).