Venice Beach & Mar Vista's Businesses Of The Year: 2020

VENICE, CA — Is it the friendly staff, the quality food, or the top-notch customer service that makes you love a business? During the coronavirus pandemic, shopping small has become of utmost importance as businesses, restaurants and local stylists struggle to make ends meet.

Here are the Venice and Mar Vista businesses that rose to the top, according to Patch readers:

Alana's Coffee Roasters, 12511 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles

What our readers are saying: "Superior selection of freshly roasted coffee beans, delicious drinks/menu items, friendly/efficient customer service and safe business environment. The go-to place for high quality freshly roasted coffee beans and employees who consistently provide outstanding customer service!"

Cafe Collage, 1518 Pacific Ave, Venice

What our readers are saying: "Great coffee/tea and food. Excellent customer service and a welcoming vibe. They go out of their way to make sure you get what you want. And they remember what you’ve ordered previously."

Erewhon Venice, 585 Venice Blvd., Venice

What our readers are saying: "We would not have survived this pandemic without them. They are amazing! The employees are amazing, special shout out to Craig."

Sidewalk Cafe, 1401 Ocean Front Walk, Venice

What our readers are saying: "Best casual dining; variety; fun staff; good prices. Adjacent bookstore is a rarity."

James' Beach Restaurant, 60 N Venice Blvd, Venice

What our readers are saying: "James Beach has been in business in Venice for about 25 years. Every day they endeavor to serve the Vernice community with excellent food and activities. Their response to the Covid virus was to redesign the restaurant to make it safe for its guests and employees. James Beach is owned by James and Daniel who both live in Venice and are dedicated to making Venice a great place to live. Terrific food and a fun and inviting atmosphere. James and Daniel are all in for Venice."

OWL Venice, 1613 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice

What our readers are saying: "Their product is amazing, it’s wholesome, nutritious, and difficult to live without. Everyone that works there is so caring and helpful! They’re friendly and helpful. One time I asked about a product and they sent me one on the house to let me try it!"

Zelda's Corner, 9 Westminster Ave, Venice

What our readers are saying: "Go to spot for the most delicious sandwiches and breakfast burritos. Located at Ocean Front Walk and Westminster, it has a great vibe. The owner and head chef is always most welcoming. I take my out of town guests here and it never disappoints. The owner takes great pride in the quality of his food offerings."

Which other Venice, Mar Vista area businesses do you love? Tell us in the comments!