We were there as the Beautify Lincoln crew, led by artist Lisa Goldfarb [pictured far right], set the stage for a mural that will take shape over the next week or so at the Great Western Steak & Hoagie Co.

Several Lincoln Blvd. storefronts are receiving a coat of color thanks to Beautify Lincoln, part of the larger Beautify Earth initiative, where local artists volunteer their talents to paint murals on drab facades (with the approval of local business owners, of course). Lincoln's beautified businesses include Tommy's Burgers, Trip, Novel Cafe, The Printing Palace, Metropolitan Cleaners, Unilight Electrical, and Auto Upholstery. The Great Western Steak & Hoagie Co. is the first project in Venice. 

The family-owned sandwich shop at Lincoln Blvd. and Superba Ave. has been in business for more than 40 years. There's obviously something to be said about those tasty Philly cheesesteaks served up hot with a can of Coke, but the structure's been in need of a revamp for quite some time. Fortunately, the future is looking bright. Not only is it receiving some Beautify Lincoln love, which should be completed within the week, but it's in the center of a booming spot of new boutiques and one Paul Hibler restaurant – Superba Food + Bread, due to open in March – that are also totally changing the face of Lincoln Blvd.

Get a before look at the Great Western Steak & Hoagie Co. in this video we made showing off those delicious Philly cheesesteaks.