Gjusta

Maria Mancuso Gersh of Santa Monica tries to decide what she wants at the counter.   (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

Baklava croissants are a popular invention at Gjusta.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

Barista Erik Rudo makes drinks as diners hang out, standing up, at Gjusta in Venice.

One of the artistically presented coffee drinks at Gjusta.  (Christina House / For The Times)

Fresh baked baguettes are removed from the oven.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

Sous-chef Mailea Weger puts together a fresh salad in the kitchen.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

An onion bialy with cold smoked lox, labneh, pickled onions, pickled cucumbers, capers and sprouts.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

Salt-cured anchovies with chile flakes and olive oil top toasted sourdough bread.   (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)

A variety of smoked fish is displayed at Gjusta.  (Christina House / For the Los Angeles Times)