Wish Upon a Michelin Star
“I can’t even begin to describe how incredible it was to build this restaurant. Every moment felt like a dream come true, and seeing it all come together was nothing short of magical.”
Barbara Pollastrini’s dream of of opening up her own restaurant has been a long time coming. From her humble Roman beginnings’s cooking in the kitchen with her mother, to studying Haute French Cuisine at Le Cordon Bleu, she’s taken Hollywood Film sets by storm with her talents styling unique dishes, and crafting menu’s to revive struggling restaurants throughout the Pandemic, but now it’s her turn. On “The Indie LA Experience Podcast” we had the pleasure of learning her story, and could not wait to hear more about her Michelin Star bound new hotspot: Da Barbara
Opening your new restaurant has been a long time coming, a long time in the making, and you have managed to do it all on your own - What are you feeling? What are the emotions now that you're seeing this dream come to life?
As a passionate chef, the dream of opening my restaurant has been the driving force behind my career. The thought of finally achieving this goal fills me with immense joy and a deep sense of personal accomplishment. It's hard to put into words how much it means to me to have accomplished this venture without any investors. The sheer determination and effort that I put in have filled me with a sense of pride and accomplishment that is simply indescribable. It's an experience that has taught me the value of hard work, persistence, and self-belief, and I hope it serves as an inspiration to others who may be hesitant to pursue their dreams.
Talk to us about the food and dining "experience" people can expect to have when they walk into your restaurant? Wet our appetite, what makes it special?
At Da Barbara's, customers can enjoy authentic and contemporary Italian cuisine that is sure to impress. This restaurant is renowned for its commitment to crafting dishes that are both traditional and modern, incorporating the latest culinary techniques to create a unique and flavorful experience. Whether you are a lover of classic Italian pasta dishes or prefer more experimental fare, Da Barbara's offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. With its attentive service, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional cuisine, Da Barbara's is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an elevated dining experience. If you're looking for authentic and modern Italian cuisine, Da Barbara's is the place to be.
What was it like for you going through the process of designing both the space and the menu? Talk to us about the elements you've incorporated from back home and your family history.
I can't even begin to describe how incredible it was to build this restaurant. Every moment felt like a dream come true, and seeing it all come together was nothing short of magical. Every little detail of the restaurant was meticulously planned, and I did not purchase anything that was not what I wanted. This entire journey would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my dear friend who was by my side throughout the entire process.
The creation of a perfect menu requires an exceptional level of creativity and attentiveness. However, the outcome of such an endeavor is always worth the effort. Through tireless dedication and meticulous attention to detail, a selection of innovative and mouth-watering Italian dishes has been successfully curated, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on even the most discerning palates. All the hard work and diligence put into this culinary creation have paid off, resulting in an exceptional menu offering. Writing the perfect menu demanded all my creativity and attention, but it was all worth it. Through my hard work and dedication, I have successfully curated an exquisite selection of innovative and mouth-watering Italian dishes that will impress even the most discerning palates.
The influence of a mother can never be overemphasized, even in cooking. Every recipe I create is infused with my mother's teachings, making it not only delicious but also an extension of my style.
After all the obstacles you have overcome to finally build your dream in Los Angeles, is there anything you wish you could go back in time and say or advise your younger self?
It took me many years to reach where I am today. I have always been focused on achieving my dreams and have worked tirelessly for years to get here. I take great pride in what I have accomplished. My ambition has been a driving force in my life since childhood, and I am confident that I know exactly where I want to go. However, I have learned the hard way that it is essential to be cautious when it comes to trusting others. Always trust your instincts, and you will never go wrong.
Do you have a favorite recipe or house specialty on the menu? Give us a little insight, what is the story or history behind this dish for you?
In my opinion, the key to a delicious meal is not only the recipe but also the quality of the ingredients used. That's why I put a lot of effort into researching the best ingredients and their sources. I never settle for subpar ingredients, and I always choose fresh and locally sourced produce whenever possible. When it comes to creating a dish, I don't simply follow recipes. Instead, I like to experiment and let my creativity flow. I start with the ingredients I have available and think about what flavors and textures would complement each other. I also consider the cooking techniques that would work best for each ingredient to ensure the final dish is perfect.
If I don't have the right ingredients, I choose not to cook. I believe that using substitutes can compromise the flavor and quality of the dish. I take pride in making everything from scratch, from homemade pasta to sauces, and cure my guanciale or pancetta. I find that the extra effort is always worth it in the end, as the result is a dish that is truly unique and delicious.
When can people come experience the culinary delight that is Da Barbara? Where are you located? Where can people go to try and make reservations?
Da Barbara opened its doors on December 15th, 2023. We are located in the heart of Hollywood.
6411 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, CA
If you want to make a reservation or view our menu, you can find all the necessary information on our website at www.barbarapollastrini.com
