BBE Editor's Pick

Bacaro LA

2308 S. Union Ave., Los Angeles (South Los Angeles)

Upscale small plates and big wines deserve top marks at this USC-adjacent vino bar. The floor-to-ceiling chalkboard highlights by-the-glass options that rarely exceed $10, thanks to a former AOC sommelier with an eye for value vintages -- opt for a tried-and-true Syrah or venture into the dry fruity territory of a Vasari Mamertino Bianco. A cauliflower dish in a chipotle aioli delivers a swift kick to the palate, while thin-crusted pizzas come in unusual combos like bacon and Brie. Not sure about which wine to order with your food? Just ask the two USC alums running the place: They're happy to share their wine smarts with those who haven't studied up.

menu musts

Roasted rainbow beets with chèvre and tarragon
Heirloom tomato bruschetta
Pan-seared scallops with sweet corn, heirloom tomatoes and green onions
Roasted eggplant, spicy smoked pepper sauce and goat cheese grilled pizza
Panino with Nutella and sliced strawberries

chew on this

Bacaro is happy to accommodate small parties. Want to set up a wine and cheese tasting for a group of friends? Management will see what they can do.

sweet seats

Take any seat you can find. The place is tiny.

hours

Sun.-Thurs. 5-10 PM
Fri.-Sat. 5-11 PM

price range

$7 per small plate or $19 for three

2308 S. Union Ave. (between 24th St. and 25th St.), Los Angeles, CA 90007; 213-748-7205 www.bacarola.com