I’m sitting at “The Banana Leaf”, a family owned, Singaporean style restaurant in the very famous “Farmer’s Market”. I’m watching a constant flow of varied and heterogeneous people being served by a very friendly and energetic young man behind the counter. His name is Michael Gazal. He seems to be the counter person, busboy, waiter and as I’m about to find out ,.....the proprietor of the Banana Leaf. Michael looks more like he should be playing in a Rock band as he finds a moment to sit down and talk with us. He says “in the 8 yrs. we’ve been open, I’ve watched Singaporean restaurants open and...
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A Restaurant Story
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Fatima Marques, dual chef and owner of Natas Pastries in Los Angeles, is a native citizen of Lisbon, Portugal. Fatima examined the Los Angeles area and discovered a culinary chasm in an otherwise diverse cultural landscape. She was inspired to fill the void for traditional Portuguese food by opening her own bakery and café in Sherman Oaks, CA. Originally starting as a bakery only, Natas Pastries quickly became a hit in the community and eventually expanded serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as their signature pastries. The menu now consists of all the traditions of Portuguese cul...
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