Restaurant Appreciation Week, running from January 11th to January 18th, is a celebration of the vibrant dining culture in the Torrance area. This special week encourages the community to support local restaurants and recognize the hardworking chefs and staff who create memorable dining experiences. To highlight the importance of this week, John Kulacki, owner of Local Kitchen The American Tavern, shared his insights on what makes the Torrance dining scene unique, the significance of Restaurant Appreciation Week, and the role his restaurant plays in bringing people together.
Q: How does your restaurant reflect the unique culinary scene of the Torrance area?
A: Local Kitchen is all about family and community. The team truly cares about each and every guest. The Torrance community works hard for their money, and there are hundreds of great restaurants to choose from. When guests choose Local Kitchen, the goal is to exceed their expectations. The team works incredibly hard to ensure that the food, service, environment, and overall value are worth it. With now over 100 menu items all made from scratch, there is truly something for everyone.
Q: What does participating in Restaurant Appreciation Week mean to you?
A: It is such a privilege to be part of the Torrance restaurant scene. The support from guests since opening in Old Town in 2017 has been incredible. Restaurant Appreciation Week is a time to celebrate the staff, the guests, and the amazing community.
Q: What is your favorite thing about owning or running your restaurant?
A: The restaurant business has been a lifelong passion. It started in 7th grade, learning to bake from my mom, who taught me the value of giving back and being “of service” to family and community. At Local Kitchen, that principle is practiced every day. Owning Local Kitchen has never felt like a job—not once. Watching the team develop into new roles, take on more responsibility, and grow is incredibly rewarding. Seeing guests smile as they enjoy their meals—or leave in a better mood than when they arrived—is what makes the experience truly special. The talented team makes all these moments happen, creating an exceptional restaurant experience.
With Restaurant Week continuing through January 18th, now is the perfect time to explore the diverse dining options in the Torrance area. Every meal enjoyed helps support the chefs, staff, and businesses that contribute to the community’s dynamic culinary scene.
Whether revisiting a beloved restaurant or trying something new, this celebration is an opportunity to appreciate the flavors and hospitality that make the Torrance area so special. Take a look at the curated list of restaurants below for inspiration and make the most of this week-long event!
