As a chef, Flynn McGarry is asked fairly often what the most memorable dish of his childhood was.
And, as a chef, his answer surprises people.
Its, like, the chicken salad from Joans on Third, he says, laughing.
The interiors at Gem Home, a new cafe, grocery, and homewares store from chef Flynn McGarry of Gem Wine.
Joans on Third is a famed grocery store-slash-cafe in Los Angeles, where McGarry grew up.
Then he moved to New York City.
Its not quite a full restaurant, but its also not quite a full retail store, McGarry explains.
The daily specials at Gem Home.
The daily specials at Gem Home.
Theres not much rhyme or reason to Gem Homes menu, McGarry admits.
Most of the dishes will be vegetarian, as he only buys meat from two specific farms.
Homewares (including custom hand soap by Ffern in bottles by artist Shane Gabier) and artisanal goods line the shelves at Gem Home.
The common culinary thread, however?
It really is, like,what do I want to eat today?
If its cold, maybe thats chicken soup.
McGarry—who build the tables and shelves for Gem Home himself—was inspired by the utilitarian furniture of Donald Judd.
If its warm, maybe its a salad with a homemade vinaigrette.
If its somewhere in between?
A confit lamb sando could hit the spot.
If you choose to eat in the space, theres a quaint dining area in the back.
I think theres such great warmth that came from the mid-century, McGarry says.
Meanwhile, he admired the utilitarian furniture designs of the modern art master.
McGarrywho build the tables and shelves for Gem Home himselfwas inspired by the utilitarian furniture of Donald Judd.
Yet McGarry admits that you may not want to gettooattached to anything at Gem Home.
Ill always be thinking: How do I want this to lookrightnow?
