Madcapra's Sara Kramer Loves LA's Food Scene, Finds Angelenos Are Actually Genuine

Grub Street out in New York managed to grab the exceedingly busy new falafel shop owner Sara Kramer for a quick chat. The interview focuses on Kramer’s decision to leave New York City for the sunny side of the country, and the trials and tribulations behind the recent opening of Madcapra, her Grand Central Market falafel operation, with partner Sarah Hymanson.

First, Kramer details the real estate market here compared to New York, which she says is more forgiving but still severely impacted. It’s also cheaper. "I will say, though, that prices are significantly less expensive here than in New York."

From there, the former Glasserie chef talks about trying to find a home for her second concept, a sit-down Middle Eastern restaurant. So far, nothing’s set in stone and the competition for spaces is intense, so it may be a while before that one comes to fruition.

Kramer goes on to talk about L.A.’s more stringent (and always changing) labor laws, her hopes to eventually have a bi-coastal restaurant empire, and her surprise that people in L.A. are actually genuine and welcoming. Apparently Los Angeles has something of a reputation on the East Coast. "It feels, like, totally contradictory about what people say about L.A.," she says.

In all, the woman behind Madcapra seems excited to be here, working with a strong team of former New Yorkers. She won’t say if there are plans to expand Madcapra elsewhere in time, but it seems likely given the pared down nature of the concept.

Check out the whole interview here.