A salon was a respected — sacred almost — intellectual space, taking on different meanings at various points of history as a literary gathering or an art exhibition. On Thursday, March 28, Osteria La Buca will attempt to reintroduce this European tradition to Angelenos with the launch of its monthly dinner series “The Salon.”

As an evolution from “The Dinner Party” $30 all-you-can-eat series, “The Salon” will follow in suit on food and drink except it's designed to be more akin to the literary gathering suggested by name. The cost to attend is not applicable as invitees will dine for free; they're tasked with bringing quality conversation instead. The selected guests will reflect a cross section of Los Angeles, all with an interest in L.A. past what's known — whether in one's own familiarities or in stereotypes from outside.

Those interested in joining the upcoming dinner must submit what they can bring to the table via salon@osterialabuca.com as part RSVP and part application. The team is encouraging creativity in this process; suggested forms include a poem, a recipe, a drawing, a video or a haiku. Like “The Dinner Party,” this series will keep the group to a minimum of six and limit it to 10. Once invited, the guests of the inaugural dinner will get to choose the guests for the second, which will continue thereafter.

The monthly series will take place at the restaurant's Pasta Room, a private upstairs room with a private entrance and view of the restaurant below. Dates after March will be announced soon.

And in related news:

– 10 Great Restaurants for Valentine's Day

– Osteria La Buca Expands — Again

– Osteria La Buca Gets New Chef, New Menu

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