Everyday 10:00–19:00
In the historic enclave of Little Armenia, located at 5341 Santa Monica Blvd, Kavkaz serves as a high-energy, soul-stirring crossroads of the Caucasus. Far more than a standard eatery, this is a legendary "mom-and-pop" pillar that has anchored the neighborhood since 1988. Named after the Caucasus mountain range, it is a luminous sanctuary where the culinary border between Armenia, Georgia, and Russia dissolves into a singular, flavor-packed experience.
It is the definitive destination for the "gastronomic purist" who prioritizes charcoal-fired authenticity over modern pretense.
The "Kavkaz" Culinary Ritual
The Charcoal Command: The heartbeat of the kitchen is the traditional charcoal grill. Unlike gas-fired replicas, Kavkaz utilizes open flames to produce Lula Kebabs and Shashlik that carry a distinct, smoky "Old World" char. The meat is hand-trimmed and marinated with surgical precision, often served atop heaping beds of seasoned rice and fresh, crisp salads.
The Khinkali & Pelmeni Mastery: For the dumpling devotee, Kavkaz is a sanctuary. Their Georgian Khinkali are famous—large, pleated dough pockets filled with a spiced beef broth that must be sipped carefully. For a lighter touch, their handmade Russian Pelmeni, garnished with fresh dill and a side of sour cream, offers a masterclass in Slavic comfort.
The "Kharcho" Soul: If you order only one soup, it must be the Kharcho. This traditional Georgian beef and tomato soup is a complex tapestry of rice, walnuts, and a specific blend of Caucasian herbs that provides a deep, warming heat—perfect for a rare chilly Los Angeles evening.
Tableside Tradition: The experience is defined by the Adjaruli Khachapuri—a sun-shaped cheese boat topped with a runny egg and a slab of butter. In a ritual of true hospitality, the staff often helps mix the center tableside, creating a rich, molten dip that is best enjoyed with their house-baked, tear-and-share bread.
The Authentic Standard
"Not just dinner, but a trip to the Crossroads of Civilizations. From our family to yours since 1988."
The most interesting reviews
- The dumplings were awesome. The service was good. But what we went for the Khachapuri was excellent. OMG, it is good.
- Service was very basic but you're there for the food. Beef lulla was very well spiced and cooked, the lamb kabob was a bit tough but very tasty. The pickles, pickled cabbage, and veggies were all on point. Good value and a great stop!
- Restaurant reminds me of local neighborhood restaurants back in Eastern Bloc. Great BBQ and certain Caucasian and Russian dishes. Customer services and environment are fine. Don't know why people complain about it. You're going to eat kebab, not going to the Bolshoi
- Best food. Very delicious. They have several ways to order. Best is if you call before you pickup than dine in. When you get there your food will be ready. Their salad is the best. Fresh tomatoes. The place itself is old style, but food is really good. I have tried their shashlik, and meat is very delicious. If you try food one time here, for sure you will go back again.
- Very delicious food! Best shashlik in town. Period! I also love the grilled fish and soups here.
Очень вкусная еда! Лучший шашлык в городе. Период! Я также люблю здесь жареную рыбу и супы.
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