Counter Intelligence: Next Door by Josie

Tarragon-roasted half chicken, garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed greens.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

One of the most popular items on the menu is the beer and bacon caramel corn.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

A charcuterie selection includes Burger’s attic-aged ham, Creminelli’s mocetta, Shaft’s Ellie’s vintage blue, Cypress Grove’s Bermuda Triangle and cracked walnuts.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

Diners are reflected in a large mirror at Next Door by Josie. The Santa Monica restaurant is an annex to chef Josie Le Balch’s Josie restaurant.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

Spicy shrimp are nestled in Allen Brothers’ grits with molasses-glazed bacon.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

Chef Le Balch is known for her market-fresh dishes. Here, farmers market vegetables are baked in a pot pie with a white cheddar crust.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

Quinoa and citrus are combined in a salad with crushed hazelnuts, ricotta salata, mandarin and blood orange.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

The restaurant on Pico Boulevard is meant to be a more casual experience for Josie fans.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)

French-trained chef Josie Le Balch brings a sense of fun to her menu.  (Patrick T. Fallon / Los Angeles Times)