StephenB323's Profile
Street - Susan Feniger's New Joint
I have been really interested in Street and am hoping someone knows what is going on. Seems like opening has been delayed a few times but I am dying for a new place around work. Not a huge fan of Border, although its always a good meal, but am really loving the new street food concept, plus the video episodes have really gotten me fascinated!
Open already!!!
Dinner near Universal Studios
Has the service at Laurel Tavern improved? Went there a six or eight months back and wanted to strangle someone. I get the order at the bar deal and the bartender was great. The food runners on the other hand were not the sharpest knifes in the drawer. I really hope the service improves as the food is great, how can you not like fries cooked in pork fat?
Dinner near Universal Studios
Living just up the hill from the area I have to say it is a bit of a challenge to find decent restaurants near Universal.
On Cahuenga there is California Canteen which has northern European fare with an emphasis on French. Very hit or miss, have had on great steak frites and one horrible one. 30-45 per person depending on wine.
Further down the street is Micelli's. I know everyone's opinion is different on this place but I can't stand it. I have really wanted to like it as it is so close but I find a singing staff a bit over the top and the food marginal at best. At Universal there is a Bucca di Bepo which you would be better off with. Sorry for the rant but being Italian I guess I just expect too much.
Further down Cahuenga is about the best Sushi place I have ever been too, and that includes many I have tried in Tokyo. It is Sushi Nozawa and has a celebrity following but has never gotten crazy like Katsuya so don’t hold it against the place. Last time there I had black cod which was truly amazing and seen very rarely in other sushi joints. Two caviots though, ambiance is nill and the price is going to be a bit high. Expect 75 per person but really you will be impressed by the fish.
Further down Ventura is Lala’s Grill, sister restaurant to Lala’s on Melrose. Menu is Argentinean and they have decent Mollejas, just need to ask them to really char them. Salads are great and a bit on the light side. Expect around 35-45 per person depending on wine.
Ca Del Sole is nice and probably a better atmosphere in comparison to others in the area. Have only taken clients to lunch here so I can’t say what the dinner service is like but from what I remember the food was very decent.
Smoke House has been around for ever and is right across from the Warner lot. Steak is very good, although not great but then again a great steak is sometimes hard to find. Atmosphere is old Hollywood brown derbyish type joint. Should be around $50 per person.
Best of luck..Stephen
