bucktown's Profile
Reservation Trade at Tickets?
The date is for May 9th. We're hoping to get one for March 29, but it doesn't look like that's going to be possible. Perhaps going to the 41 degrees bar will satisfy us enough!
Madrid - Club Allard, Sergi Arolo Gastro, or Terraza del Casino?
I'm planning out a trip to Spain, and wanted to make sure to make some restaurant reservations before heading out in a couple weeks. I've heard great things about all 3 of the above places, but if I was to choose one, which should it be? Our group will eat almost anything, so strangeness or unfamiliarity is no concern to us. We'll just be coming from Barcelona, where I'd made a reservation to Lasarte, but that's our only other fine dining restaurant we have booked. Thanks for your help!
Reservation Trade at Tickets?
I was originally going to be traveling to Barcelona in May, but it just so happened our trip got bumped up to the end of March. I had originally made a reservation to Tickets for 6 people, but now cannot use that reservation. Does anybody know of any reservation trade possibilities? My days would be March 27-30. We were looking forward to going, so hopefully we can still manage it. Thanks for your help.
Birthday Dinner - XIV or Providence?
So my girlfriend bought this deal on one of those deal websites that basically allows 2 people a 6-course tasting menu at XIV for about half off (a $190 value for $95). We thought it would be excellent to use for our birthday dinner on Thursday (our birthdays are mere days apart). But in the last week, we heard that Providence is offering their usual $95 5 course menu for $70. The only thing is, we went there last year for our birthdays, but it seems like too good of a deal to pass up (or isn't it?). We have until July 26th to use the XIV deal we bought, and I guess until June 30th to take up the Providence deal. What would all of you chowhounders do in our position? Thanks!
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XIV
8117 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046
West Side or South Bay - best egg salad sandwich?
I've got to say, for a classic, diner egg salad sandwich, Nick's Coffee Shop on Pico/La Cienega can't be beat (even by Apple Pan). I go there to get it about once a week.
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Apple Pan
10801 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Trying to Choose Between Kiriko or Sushi Masu
Sushi Masu is my favorite sushi place in the entire Los Angeles area (and I've been to some so called top tier places like Matsuhisa, Kiyokawa, Mori, etc.). It's my standard, go to place for sushi. First of all, for the price, it can't be beat by a longshot. I've had the omakase there for $35pp (average for me is prob around $45 though). He gives you VERY generous portions of fish and doesn't stop dishing 'em out until you're stuffed usually around 11 pieces (of not your commonly found fish either). It's also fantastically delicious. And as someone mentioned before, I counter it certainly has not gone downhill but remains as great as ever. (although I've noticed I have the best experiences Tuesdays and Fridays for whatever reason)
2nd, Masu is hilarious. If you can get passed his very thick Japanese accent, he's one of the funniest people I've ever met (he can be occasionally dirty minded, which often has me laughing out loud). Sometimes it's almost like going to dinner and a show. He's never rude, but can egg on diners who take themselves too seriously. If you want the full Masu though, you sort of have to interact with him to get him going. He'll take it from there.
So, it really depends what kind of experience you want to have. Kiriko is more serious minded, as somebody said more of a destination restaurant. Masu seems a little more like an authentic, neighborhood sushi joint that gives you some of the freshest fish for the best price. If you go to Masu though, just make sure you sit at the bar on Masu's side and only order sushi.
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Matsuhisa
129 N La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Kiriko
11301 W Olympic Blvd Ste 102, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Sushi Masu
1911 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Birthday Dinner - Tasting menu at Providence or Dining Room at the Langham?
There's a birthday coming up in a couple weeks, and I didn't know at which restaurant I should choose to celebrate. I discovered that Providence is having a special in June, where they are charging $65 for their 5 course tasting menu, which normally runs $85pp, I believe. Dining Room at the Langham has a 4 course tasting menu for $79pp, but it looks like one can choose from a list of dishes, so two people could potentially order completely separate things, thereby creating an 8 course menu if shared.
I have actually been to Providence once before, last year for Valentine's Day. It was fine, but I wasn't too impressed given the cost. Although I didn't know if I should write that off as the near universal "valentines mediocrity," so I thought I'd someday give it another chance on just a regular day. And a $65 tasting menu seems too good to pass up. I have never, on the other hand, been to Dining Room at the Langham, but have always wanted to try Michael Voltaggio's dishes, even before he won Top Chef, and don't really know another opportunity I'll be able to justify going.
Has anybody tried both menus and can definitively say which is better? Thanks!
Going to Conan Show, Need Recs for Universal City --
Last week Pink's just opened a new location at the Citywalk. Not sure if that's what you're looking for, but they do have a pretty darn good chili dog.
Sona Blackboard deal worth it?
So you two ordered and shared/split 1 tasting menu? Was that enough food for the both of you? And they were accommodating to it? That seems like a good idea that my gf and I have always wanted to try somewhere, but always thought it was something we weren't supposed to do. I'd love to hear some more details. Thanks!
Sona Blackboard deal worth it?
So we decided instead to go to the Hatchi series that Breadbar in Century City is having tomorrow night. Chef Kuniko Yagi from Sona is the guest chef for the evening! It sounds like a good menu, 8 dishes each for $8. If we get all of them and a bottle of wine, that I think would still come out to less than a night out with a free bottle at Sona. But maybe if Chef Yagi really wows us we still have a week left to use that coupon.
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Sona
401 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90048
Sona Blackboard deal worth it?
That's what I'm sort of hesitant about. I did, however, check their winelist online, and it looks like they don't have any wines for less than $50 a bottle, so even if they give you one of those it seems like a pretty good deal. Unless they have some real cheapos that they're only giving out for this specific deal. I made a reservation anyway, and I guess I'll try it out and report back what I find.
Sona Blackboard deal worth it?
A few weeks ago, I signed up to get the coupon deal that Sona was offering on blackboard - a free bottle of wine (either chardonnay or pinot noir) with the purchase of an entree. I have never been to Sona, but have heard some good things over the years (I'd never had the justification to pay those prices to go). But a free bottle of wine sounds like a pretty good deal. Has anybody used that coupon yet? Do you actually get a decent bottle? Is Sona worth going to regardless?
Any recent feedback about Lucille's BBQ in Long Beach?
Lucille's was actually my go to place for BBQ while I was living in Long Beach. That is until Beachwoods bbq moved into Seal Beach. Now I only go there when I'm in the area. Lucille's is definitely one of the better options around Long Beach, but by no means the best (which would be Bludso's).
Seeking Best Baguette au Jambon in LA
It is not on the permanent menu (but both times I've been it's been a special), but Bar Bouchon has one of the best Baguette au Jambon's I've ever had, and that includes Paris. It's a bit on the smaller side, but it comes with a side of soup (in this case tomato, also some of the best I've had). I think I actually like bar bouchon better than the big Bouchon Bistro upstairs. The food is of course simply wonderful, but the restaurant is way too formal and hard to get into for what it's supposed to be. Bar Bouchon, on the other hand, has the small, casual French bistro feel to it, and you can sit outside on a beautifully sunny day. There's no reservations, lines, or stuffiness.
Quest for sand dabs
Patty's Place in Seal Beach serves them. They're really fantastic if you are in the area.
Recommended Valentine's Day dinner?
I was wondering if anybody recommended a good Valentine's Day dinner in the Los Angeles area. I've noticed that some places metaphorically "take the night off" for Valentine's Day and sometimes even have a 20% surcharge on what their food normally costs. For example, we went to Providence last year and the food was mediocre and disappointing at best (the wine and service were great though). But we've gone before then, and it was fantastic. Does anyone know of anyplace in town that is romantic and sets the bar high for Valentine's Day? My date and I normally would not be so picky for this holiday, but it actually also happens to be our anniversary.
Best place for a date tonight: Vinoteque or Tasca?
I am entrusted to make a reservation for a romantic liaison tonight. I was leaning towards Vinoteque or Tasca, although have not been to either. Can someone recommend one over the other or is there another alternative? Thanks!
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Tasca Restaurant
8108 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Vinoteque on Melrose
7469 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Help - Casual sushi on the West Side
I second Sushi Masu. It is the definition of casual and cool. Masu is unpretentious and the focus is on the fish - fresh and delicious rather than on rolls. Give it a try (it's not too expensive either for the quality)! Plus, Masu himself is hilarious, so be sure to sit at the bar.
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Sushi Masu
1911 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Where Do You Buy Your Pasta and What Do You Buy?
I agree, Al Dente was fantastic. I grew up on their deli sandwiches, some of the best. I've been craving them since they closed, and also have been wondering if they had another store open since then. If you find out, please post a reply.
Which Bistro would you pick?
I'd say wait for La Cachette Bistro! It'll be open by the time you're here, and sure to be the best of the lot given it's from the bistro menu at the proper La Cachette, which is some of the best food in the city.
Date night Friday -- Animal, Church & State, or Ludobites?
Hi there,
My partner and I of 5 years want to go out tomorrow night and have heard good things regarding the restaurants above. We've never been to any of them, but we love new food and new places. Is one far and away better than the other? Thanks!
8 oz. or Umami or ??
Has anybody tried the burger at Wolfgang's Steakhouse in BH? As that place is modeled after Peter Luger's in Brooklyn (where Wolfgang worked as a chef and head waiter), the NY Times just had an article about a hamburger society naming that the best burger in NY.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/06/dining/06burg.html?_r=2&em
I think you can only get it for lunch, however. I haven't been, but let me know if it's as good as they say Peter Luger's is.
Where is the best Red Velvet Cake?
I just ordered a red velvet cake for my first trip to phillip's bbq in leimert park over the memorial day weekend. Not only was it the best bbq i've had in la (i ordered the tri-tip and rib tips), but it was also the best cake i've ever eaten. it was profoundly moist, sweet (but not too sweet), buttery goodness. it was also gigantic! 1 slice could easily fill 3 people. i definitely recommend it way over any of these cutesy bakeries or cupcake shops.
Carte Blanche @ Mélisse, or, Not Quite a 3-Star (Sorry Russ!)
This sounded fantastic. I'm actually going there tomorrow night for an exciting evening. The carte blanche seems like the way to go, but is it quite a bit of food? Is it easy to share with my date? Or could that be interpreted as tacky? We want to sample alot, but also can't really stuff ourselves. Thanks!
Good place to watch the Laker playoff in the Santa Monica/Venice area?
I'm just wondering if there's a good restaurant or bar in that area where one could enjoy the game. It doesn't necessarily have to be a sports bar, just somewhere with a good central television where you could stay for about 2 hours. Or either two places, a restaurant and bar where one could easily travel from one to the other during halftime. Thanks!
Westside-ish atmospheric, tasty spots?
The new Westside Tavern underneath the Landmark Theatre at the Westside Pavillion on Pico might suit your needs perfectly. They have great sandwiches and entrees for around $15 and fantastic cocktails as well. It's a cool place, and you can check out a movie afterwards!
Where to buy Barritt's Ginger Beer in LA area?
Does anybody know where I could buy Barritt's ginger beer from Bermuda in LA? I've been searching high and low for it around town to make some Dark and Stormy's, but can't seem to find it at Bevmo, large grocery stores, and some local liquor stores (like Vendome). Can anyone help?
best thai on the west side?
Melanee Thai on Pico Blvd near the Museum of Tolerance. They have some of the freshest and best cooked vegetables I've ever had at a Thai restaurant. If you're a vegetarian, this is the Thai place for you. It's very reasonably priced and they're very friendly. Also, their basil seafood dish is outstanding! It's a fantastic place!
Best Sushi Deal for those Wanting to Tighten their Belts
If those on this board are like me and are trying to conserve cash during this economic downturn, but also still need a quality sushi dining experience to get you through life, then I must guide you to the best place for it: Sushi Masu on Westwood in West LA. I've been eating there for a couple of years now, and must say that it is one of the most fantastic sushi deals in the city. The omakase for 1 comes in at around 30 bucks, and you get huge cuts of some of the freshest, delicious, and most diverse selection of fish that I've come across in this city. And I've been to most of the biggies: Sasabune, Hamasaku, Mori, and Hide. The first 3 are pretty steep when it comes to the bill. Hide is cheap, but I've noticed a decline in quality over the years and for some reason the place is always packed with crowd. In fact, I think I've tasted fresher fish at Masu than some of the more praised joints like Sasabune or even Nozawa. My advice is to sit at the bar under Masu. Don't go for the cooked food or even the rolls. Just the fish. The kampachi, king mackerel, butterfish, white tuna, and leather fish (i've never seen that anywhere else) -- all the best. Not only is he a master of the trade, but he might also be one of the most entertaining people I've ever met. He has a wicked sense of humor and will most certainly chat you up if you can get through his very thick accent. His conversations with me have run the gamut from women's thongs to fairy tale origins to the digestive system. He's a wonderful human being, who cares very much about quality and taste. And I know it sounds like I'm fawning at this point, but if you need another selling point, Masu's also a closet environmentalist (he doesn't advertise it, but he'll explain if you ask him) in the sense that he is conscious about serving fish that are in danger of being overfished like the bluefin. Masu is the real deal, and I can't recommend him highly enough.
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Sushi Masu
1911 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Belmont Shore Recommendations
I know that street front and back, having grown up in the area. There are actually some excellent restaraunts, depending on what you're after. Domenico's pizza is a favorite of mine, dishing out an interesting twist on traditional pies. It's a great place for a group, too. They also have your standard Italian fare as well. George's greek restaurant is one of the best Greek restaurants in Southern California. They have mouth wateringly good lamb chops and excellent salmon. Further down, there's the French Creperie, which is probably the most ideal birthday environment. They serve (you guessed it) crepes of all different flavors and tastes. They also have great French jazz music with a live band in the evenings, but it is probably the most popular (i.e. crowded) on the street. There's also Lucille's if you prefer bbq, serving up some tender baby back ribs in fun Southern throwback setting. Or, if you'd rather watch the Lakers playoffs tonight, you can't beat Legends Sports Bar. Let me know what you decide!
