Restaurant

“Dinner in the diner, nothing could be finer.” Okay, so it wasn’t a diner—but Sal’s Place, a pop-up in West Hollywood, definitely fell into the finer category.

We were greeted at the door by Shiobhan, the effortlessly charming, blond owner, who made us feel like old friends dropping by her new place. The restaurant, formerly the iconic Piccolino, instantly gave off those you’re-in-the-right-place vibes. You could just tell it was going to be a good night.

The four of us landed at a table that once seemed reserved for Hollywood royalty. The lighting was soft (not moody-dark), white gauzy curtains floated at the windows, and there was this subtle sparkle in the air—like something special was about to happen.

Our waiter, friendly and clearly a pro, gave us the backstory: Sal’s Place spent 40 years charming Provincetown, Massachusetts, and now splits its time—summers in P-town, winters in LA. Not a bad life.

Cocktails arrived (excellent ones, by the way), and we dove into the short-and-sweet menu packed with craveable pastas, fresh fish, and a standout meat dish. Just my kind of lineup.

Then came the surprise: juicy shrimp to share and crisp Caesar salads, delivered unannounced as a welcome gift. (Other restaurants, take note—this is how it’s done.)

Sal’s Place is that rare combo of retro charm and modern ease. The food’s delicious, the service is spot-on, and yes—our waiter understood that cocktails are for before dinner, not during (as so many do not understand). Bless.