Olimila Gourmet Emporium (CLOSED)

Olimila Gourmet Emporium's (formerly known as Ferrari Olive Oil Company—the signage outside may still refer to its previous name) Ventura Blvd boutique reads like a hands-on museum featuring the art of unique, locally crafted olive oils and balsamics. Step inside the rustic hideaway to find glass bottles lining the walls like pourable sculptures—offerings includes everything from espresso and Meyer lemon infused balsamic vinegars to olive oils flavored with fresh basil, garlic and blood orange. For no cost at all, guests are invited to mosey from bottle to bottle, serving themselves virtually unlimited splashes, either to sip solo from a plastic cup or to pair with a bite of bread. Depending on how busy the shop is, one of Olimila's knowledgeable (and babely) employees will happily guide you as you slurp, providing tasting techniques, run-downs of each flavor profile and suggestions for food pairings. The staffers put next to no pressure on you to buy as you taste, making the experience a relaxed one; however, their artisanal creations are all so heavenly, you're bound to walk out with a bottle or two.