If Italy is not in your immediate travel plans and you’re craving fresh mozzarella di bufala, I’ve got the solution for you – Obika Mozzarella Bar.
Upon my recent return from Italy, I was pleasantly surprised to find fresh, high quality mozzarella at Obika in Los Angeles. At Obika’s grand opening on September 14th, I tasted the Fried Breaded Mozzarella di Bufala, Mozzarella Rolls with Smoked Wild Alaskan Salmon and Arugula, and the Affumicata (literally, “smoked mozzarella di bufala”).
Already established in Milan, London, New York, Tokyo and Rome, Obika Los Angeles has fresh mozzarella flown in from dairy farms (located in the southern region of Campania, Italy) three times a week. The mozzarella is made from fresh buffalo milk and has a creamy, luscious texture – a true delicacy!
Five days after its opening, I went back to Obika and had lunch – everything tasted fantastic and I was so pleased with the different ways in which the mozzarella is served, as well as with the selection of wines and foods. One of my favorites is the Layered Grilled Eggplant Parmigiana.
For my incurable sweet tooth, I tasted Ricotta Mousse with Honey, Orange Peel and Pine Nuts; and Tiramisu. I was impressed because I tasted pure, fresh ingredients – hallmarks of “homemade” Italian flavors. Wow!
Obika is high on my list for great food, atmosphere and service.
For more information, check out Obika’s website at http://www.obikala.com
Text and Photographs ©2010 Nancy DeLucia Real
Nancy DeLucia Real is an art historian and chef. She has led culinary courses at the Italian Cultural Institute, The Getty Center and The Getty Villa and is a former member of the Culinary Historians of Southern California. Nancy's gastronomy training took place in the heart of Italy under the tutelage of her grandmother. She has taught international cuisine at Williams Sonoma and Sur la Table Stores. Nancy's art history & culinary courses are ongoing at various institutions. She also teaches private cooking classes. 
Dear Nancy, I totally agree with your description of Obika… Mmmm I feel like getting in the car and driving to Century City!
Yessss, everything on Obika’s menu is to die for!
oh boy Nancy you have no idea how happy my Mr F is going to be when I tell him that we can get real Italian mozzarella di bufala a few miles from home.
Rosie, let me know how you liked Obika. And then, move ahead to my Mozzarella recipe posted on Sept. 27th (notice the mouth-watering photo). Have fun and thanks for visiting my blog.
Thank you Nancy, I’m happy you liked Obikà! Coming from an expert, your words are very very appreciated. I just want to update with our new website address, http://www.obikala.com, where we post menus, wines, and information on our products we serve.
Hope to see you there again!
Nilde
Nilde, thanks for reading this. I’ll be back with my friends in a few days.