Los Angeles - April 23, 2007

One for the Homies

Algabar Reopens

Hollywood loves a comeback. Too bad this year’s crop (see Brit, Whit, and co.) has proved high expectation, low yield.

But after a five-year hiatus, Algabar reopened last week in an airy new space on La Brea. And with a new lease on lifestyle (modern Chinoiserie, custom gift creation, in-house tea bar), it won’t disappoint.

Co-owner Gail Baral spent her respite from retail scouring the world for artisan-crafted treasures — from handmade ceramic bowls from Japan to sea salt from Mallorca to Damien Bash candles from the Left Bank — as well as immersing herself in the study of tea and importing every gorgeous teapot, green tea chocolate, and Mariage Frères bit she could get her hands on.

Baral also learned the value of all things organic, so many of Algabar’s offerings are natural and toxin- and chemical-free.

Just like any clean comeback should be.

Algabar, 342 South La Brea Avenue, between Third and Fourth Streets, La Brea Corridor (323-954-9720 or algabar.com).