Fond of La Fonda: La Fonda Antioqueña

One of my favorite restaurants, the Colombian stalwart La Fonda Antioqueña has moved down the street to larger digs. The new place, still on Melrose, has ample seating, much better parking and all of the same great food. This is one of those places where almost everything is great, but my favorites are:

• Empanadas: Crispy corn crust, stuffed with well-spiced beef


• Morcilla: Maybe the best blood sausage in LA


• Chicharron: The Antioqueña version has big chunks of moist fried pork served on the fat and skin.


• Arroz con Pollo: An old favorite done well


• Chuletas de Cerdo: Breaded pork chop, pounded thin as a milenesa; it's hard for me to not order it.


• Mojarra: Whole fried fish

In addition, they have great condiments and sides: tangy green salsa that goes well on everything, crispy plantain fritters and a bakery with wonderful cheese rolls.

La Fonda Antioqueña
5125 Melrose
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 957-5164