Anaheim White House Restaurant
It happened that I was in L.A., in Anaheim actually, for a conference. I remember the L.A. of my childhood as hot, massive, and my home away from home. Though I grew up in Oregon, I spent most summers and holidays at my Grandmother’s in L.A., which may have something to do with why I live in Spain now. Southern California and the Mediterranean side of Spain have some things in common.
Anyway, Anaheim has changed a lot since my Disneyland days. It’s classier, swankier, nicer. The Anaheim White House has been around to see the city change over the years. Constructed in 1909, the building is a Historical National Landmark and a go-to place for Los Angeles residents. It looks like something that could be a Disney attraction, all white and lit up with twinkling lights. Inside the restaurant is bedecked in gold, cream and lots of over-the-top bling. It’s not my cup of tea, but it is dramatic and fancy.
California
Decor aside, The Anaheim White House menu offers up filet Mignon, rack of lamb, wild salmon and Hawaiian ahi Coco Chanel plus Italian favorites. The Anaheim White House Chef, Bruno Serato, is a charismatic Italian with a passion for pasta and charitable deeds.
Bruno is well known as a Anaheim hero for his outreach pasta program. Five nights a week Bruno’s pasta wagon delivers food to children (most of whom live in hotels or in other poor conditions) who might not otherwise have dinner. He has served over 250,000 meals to date. Bruno grew up poor in Italy but found success in California. His program helps out children and at the same time shines a light on the fact that hunger is not some foreign issue, but in our own backyard. He’s an inspiring person.
Stop by The Anaheim White House for dinner after Disney or swig by to drop off extra pasta noodles for the kids if you live in the L.A. area.
MORE:http://anaheimwhitehouse.com/
Post and Photos by Regina Winkle-Bryan. See more at : http://www.thespainscoop.com/
