La Copine Cookbook: Stories from the Desert
Welcome to the Magic
Out in the California desert near Joshua Tree, La Copine spins its own kind of magic. Powered by business and life partners Claire Wadsworth and Nikki Hill, the drama of the landscape, and the irresistible food, this destination restaurant has captured hearts—and critical acclaim.
Featured in: New York Times, Eater, Vogue, and more
Who We Are
Dubbed the West Coast's answer to Via Carota's Rita and Jody, Wadsworth and Hill are passionate, community-driven California cooks with a deep love for each other and the people around them.
They welcome guests to La Copine—which means "girlfriend" in French—with open arms. Together, they've created a safe haven for the queer community outside Los Angeles and built something rooted in care and pride for every plate that leaves the kitchen.
The Food: California Soul
La Copine's debut cookbook captures more than recipes—it embodies a philosophy.
Veggie-forward. Innovative yet comforting. Light enough for lunch, substantial enough to linger over.
- Hunky salads (as the New York Times calls them)
- Special-occasion sandwiches
- Summery, boldly flavored grilled meats and vegetables
- Simple, no-bake desserts
The food roams far and wide but always delivers that unmistakable sense of home.
More Than a Cookbook
This is an armchair trip through a remote and spectacular landscape. It's a glimpse into Wadsworth and Hill's love story, the business they've built together, and the community they've found in the desert.
It's a mission statement for creating a life on your own terms.
