Russians would frown, but you can also get your vodka in cocktail form, including a Basil Gimlet, Vodka Sunrise, Russian Cider, and Petrossian’s signature Caviar-tini served with a caviar-stuffed olive. 

Ina zda-rov’-ye! (The online translator says that means cheers in Russian. I will take their word for it.) 

Petrossian Café
321 North Robertson Boulevard
West Hollywood, CA 90048-2415
(310) 271-6300
petrossian.com

The Land of the Rising Sun inspires two limited-edition food concepts this month.

From August 26-September 9, Culver City’s Royal/T café hosts "Sushi Pop Art," a dinner series featuring the fishy artistry of  chef Kenny Yamada.  Apparently, most folks know Yamada best from his recent judging stint on Hell’s Kitchen, but it’s probably more important to note that he opened the non-SBE affiliated (read: no scary geishas) Encino branch of Katsu-ya with Mr. Uechi himself. According to the press release: 

“Diners can select from two prix-fixe menus, including a 7-course menu for $45 and a 13-course option for $90, with handcrafted Japanese small plates such as a Sweet Shrimp Present with Tempura Scallop and Salad wrapped in an Egg Sheet; a Ceviche Tower with Tuna, Halibut, Salmon, Yellow Tail, Gyoza Skin, Jalapenos, Red Onions, and Scallions; Sushi Cake with layers of Crab, Spicy Tuna, Tuna, Rice, Mashed Potatoes, and Caviar; and Sake Tiramisu. Wine and sake pairings will be available at an additional cost.”

The tasty bits are said to be inspired by Royal/T’s contemporary Japanese art collection. Just don’t lick the paintings—we hear that’s not cool. 

[Photo by Amanda Brooks]

-Not many of us think about wine when we think of Morocco. That, it seems, is a mistake. Next Monday, August 9, Fraîche restaurant will host a Moroccan wine tasting, with four exotic pours paired with a selection of cheese and charcuterie. The event takes place at 6:30 and the cost is $35 per person. Reservations required. 

-This one is just bizarre. Culver City’s Royal/T is hosting The Nonlife Zoo, a series of pop-up wild animal events this weekend. Who are the animals you ask? You are! Starting at 8 p.m. on Friday August 6, grown-ups are asked to come dressed like their favorite zoo animals for “A Night In the Jungle,” where, for $10, they’ll be treated to cocktails and vegetarian tapas. I’m not quite sure what this means, but a press release says, “owner Susan Hancock will provide animal card energy readings.” Saturday, from noon to 4, it’s a family affair with face painting, animal cupcakes, more veggie bites, and “a refreshing watermelon drink.” Rawr.

During the day the place will function like a deli, serving Southeast Asian-inspired sandwiches with bread, charcuterie, pickles, and other ingredients all made in-house.

Come nighttime, the Spice Table will focus on satays andother tidbits grilled on the space’s wood-burning hearth. (Coming from Mozza, this guy knows a thing or two about how to cook with wood.) They’ll also serve traditional dishes like laksa, stews, curries, noodles, veggies, and Ng’s version of Hainanese chicken rice. (!!!)  Assuming all beverage license procuring goes well, the Spice Table will also pour a stiff selection of Asian-friendly, craft brews.

 “I’m an L.A. native, born and raised, of Singaporean heritage, so I really wanted to open a restaurant that serves food that is influenced by the traditional cuisines of Singapore and Southeast Asia,” Says Ng.

 It all sounds swell to us! Ng and his wife hope to open by “late fall.” We’ll keep you posted. 

You don’t get TV dinners like this out of a freezer. On Thursday, July 8^th, an eclectic line-up of venerated chefs is putting together what promises to be an unforgettable meal ($120 per guest) to coincide with the viewing of Sachi executive chef, and former Morimoto pupil, Makoto Okuwa’s first lead performance on Iron Chef America.

The top-notch roster includes:

Chef Makoto Okuwa: Sashi Executive Chef/Iron Chef Challenger
Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto: Executive Chef of Morimoto Restaurants
Top Chef Michael Voltaggio: Season Six Winner/Chef de Cuisine of The Dining Room at the Langham
Chef Noriyuki Sugie: Executive Chef of Ironnori
Chef Sonny Sweetman: Executive Chef of Wolfgang Puck
Chef Waylynn Lucas: Executive Pastry Chef of Patina

Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are set for 5 p.m. and the first course hits the table at 7. Iron Chef America viewing starts at 8. And it’s a doozy; Chef Okuwa takes on the Mediterranean magic of Iron Chef Michael Symon. 

ABC news online (among others) ran a little story this morning on the Alaska Distillery in Wasilla, which just launched its small batch smoked-salmon vodka. 

“Once the fish is smoked, the skin is removed and employees masticate the fillets. The chunks are placed into a large vat, where highly concentrated ethanol is mixed in. From that stew is pulled the flavor, rich color and essence of the salmon.”

Ugh! Essence of salmon stew? I’m not even sold on the whole Clamato bloody mary thing...

According to the article, we can expect to see this hitting shelves in California within a month. As for me—I’ll stick to consuming smoked salmon the way god intended: on a bagel. 

So, what do you guys think? Am I being closed-minded here? Would you try salmon vodka? In what drink?  

Eva chef/owner Mark Gold is doing his part to help. Starting tonight, every Tuesday at Eva is “Fried Chicken & Keg Beer Night” where Gold will stuff you full of as much fried chicken and suds as you can intake for $25. Yes, folks, it’s an all-you-can-eat affair from 6 p.m. on. The keg will be full of North County Pilsner, and the chicken we’re sure will be delectable. 

Still feeling the itch for crispy-skinned poultry? (Really? Still?) Head to Campanile on July 5 when Mark Peel will be hosting a family-style fried chicken dinner. For $45, diners can gorge on a tomato and cucumber salad with Russian dressing, southern fried chicken with long-cooked green beans, bacon, and cornbread, and a Georgia peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream for dessert. If you weren’t feeling the all-American pride after the 4th this should do the trick. 

For today’s edition: The Beef and Pickle Taco @ Malo

Some pals of mine just moved into an incredible house (like, you sort of want to burn it down it’s so nice) that just happens to be walking distance to Malo in Silver Lake. That’s a double bonus—not only does it mean they’re always down for a quick Mexican bite or a margarita, but also I can park at their place. (Confession: the difficulty of finding a parking space at a particular restaurant directly correlates to the probability of my going there. Take note restaurateurs!)  Monday nights are Tequila Nights at Malo, which means tacos ranging from $1 to $2.50 each (cheap by Silver Lake standards) and discount specialty cocktails. Now, this was not my first rodeo, so I ordered a couple of old favorites: The Chewy Chips—some cooking accident-cum-signature dish that involves thick, oily, floppy tortilla chips (they’re always skating that edge between gross and good, which oftentimes results in magnificence) and the crispy beef and pickle taco. Dill pickle pieces, ground beef, shredded cheddar stuffed in a tortilla that is then fried. Yes please, I think I will have another. Washed it down with the $6 margarita and I was happy as a, well, as a taco. The only thing better was when my friend asked if the waiter could “slip a pickle” into her soy-rizo taco—as you can imagine, hilarity ensued. 

Malo

4326 W. Sunset Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90029

323-664-1011

What to do? Good Food host extraordinaire and Angeli Caffe chef/owner Evan Keliman has taken it upon herself to organize a benefit to get Nina a truck, and has teamed up with a group of do-gooders including Erin Glenn of Associación de Loncheros L.A. Familia Unida de California. From 11 to 3 this Sunday—yep, Father’s Day—stop by Angeli Caffe on Melrose to get a taste of Nina’s fine cooking and help her raise the necessary funds. Because really, all of us could benefit from Nina being more mobile—especially our stomachs. 

What kind of delicious treats will be on hand you ask? 

Menu for Nina’s Food Fundraiser

 PAMBAZO            $5
A roll soaked in Guajillo Chile Sauce filled with Potato and Chorizo and Griddled
 
QUESADILLAS – GRIDDLED OR FRIED -  CHEESE ONLY            $3.5
 
QUESADILLAS OR GORDITAS GUISADAS  - Stuff in your Masa Goodness  $6.50
            +HUITLACOCHE  - Corn Fungus
            +FLOR DE CALABAZA – Zucchini Flowers
            +HONGOS – Mushrooms
            +CHICHARRON PRENSADO
            +TINGA – Spicy Chipotle Beef
 
BOWL OF POZOLE w/condiments   $5
 
NINA’S SALSA SECA  (to-go) $5
Combo of sesame seeds, peanuts, chile de arbol 
 
There will also be a selection of Beverages
Agua de Limon
Agua de Sandia
 
Soft Drinks/Ice Tea
A selection of Beers

*If you can’t make it and want to make any size donation please make your check out to Nina Garcia and send it to:

Nina’s Food

c/o Carl Berquist

Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles

2533 West 3rd Street, Suite 101 | Los Angeles, California 90057

Petrossian is getting in on the Hollywood Bowl picnic action by offering a selection of chef Benjamin Bailly’s caviar-studded dishes to go—and delivered curbside. (‘Cause nothing kills a caviar buzz like having to deal with parking.) Choose among the Caviar Surprise, served in a caviar tin, which features layers of Caviar, King Crab, Crème Fraîche and Apple Cider Jelly ($32); Caviar Dip and Sweet Potato Chips ($14); Blinis with Caviar, Trout, and Salmon Roe; the Green Bean Salad with Burrata, Marcona almonds and Transmontanus Caviar ($18); and the Smoked Salmon Tartine with Goat Cheese, Capers, and Caviar ($16).

The other Wolfgang with a restaurant on Canon is offering a ‘Wine Wednesday’ special throughout the summer. Come humpday at Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, any bottle of wine purchased with an entrée is half off. This applies to every single wine on the list, with prices ranging from $50-$500. It’s hard for us to stomach thinking of a $250 bottle of wine as a steal, but we suppose for a special occasion...

There are two new weekend brunches in town: Culver City’s British-style gastropub Waterloo & City (which, by the way, has the coolest wallpaper—it’s reason enough to go) is serving a full English breakfast with baked beans and all, plus more California-style dishes like a Latke Avocado and Heirloom Tomato Benedict. On Sundays they’ll be offering a British family-style roast for the whole table. Add a Bucks Fizz (British for mimosa) and call it a weekend.  

Thomas Keller’s Bouchon bistro premiers its brunch this weekend. What we’re already fantasizing about? The Cotes de Boeuf Hache, braised short rib hash with piquillo peppers, caramelized onion and a sunny-side-up hen egg, and the Boudin Blanc, white sausage with soft scrambled eggs and a house-made croissant finished with beurre noisette. Did we mention house-made morning pastries like the pain au chocolat? Bouchon is simultaneously launching late night hambburgers Thursdays through Saturdays after 9 p.m. The burgers are will be made with “a combination of prime cuts of sirloin, brisket and chuck,” and paired with the bistro’s incredible pommes frites. Sorry Anthony Bourdain, but it looks like the gourmet burger fad is far from over. 

The craftsman cottage seems a good fit for the pair's old timey-influenced libations. No word yet on if the new management is overhauling anything else—like, oh, the food—but we know newish executive chef Tim Guiltinan rejiggered the brunch menu back in April and plans to take on dinner next. The new cocktail list will launch late this summer. Until then, you can still get a more than decent bloody mary on the patio.

The Raymond

1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave.

Pasadena, CA 91105

626-441-4770

This Monday, June 7th, the Beverly Hills outpost of the Chaya chain is throwing down the gauntlet for power lunch supremacy. Its new Le Petite Lunch features a budget-friendly menu of $12-and-under dishes that they hope will leave you feeling stuffed (and thrifty). Selections include the famous Chaya Bento Box ($12), Maine lobster and shrimp ravioli ($12), and a crunchy shrimp roll ($5). Lunch will be served Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Wanting to add a new spin to your Sunday Suppers rotation? Eva may have the fried chicken, but Chaya Brasserie is bringing the hamachi. Beginning June 13^th, Sushi Sundays will be in effect with an alternating menu of à la carte sushi rolls for $3.50 or two-for-one rolls for $5. And because raw fish demands a good, cold beer, large Kirin will be offered at $5 a pop. For those looking for something more substantial, a $35 “Omakase” menu will be available in the dining room. It includes a half portion of edamame, one cut roll, nine pieces of sushi, and a small sake. Sushi Sunday is available from 5:00-9:00 p.m. Reservations recommended.

*While we’re on the topic, health food haven M Café de Chaya is going all Memorial Day with a burgers and beer promotion starting May 31. Get a Big Macro Burger (spoiler alert—it’s not meat) and one of four organic beers for $14.95. That doesn’t sound all that cheap until you realize that a Laverstoke Park Organic Lager goes for around $8 on its own. The rest of the organi-brews? Pinkus Organic Hefe-Weizen, St. Peter’s Organic English Ale, and Laverstroke Park Organic Ale. 

*Campanile is excited about Copper River salmon season. So excited, in fact, that they’re paring the especially delicious Alaskan variety with a complimentary glass of 2008 Edna Valley Pinot Noir for a limited time. Cheers!

*The June 3rd installment of Breadbar Century City’s Hatchi “Mix” will feature mix master Joel Black from downtown’s Caña Rum Bar. Reservations required. So, what’s to drink?

-Ginger Mistress:  White Rum, Apricot Liqueur, Lemon, Honey, and --Ginger Float of Laphroag Cask Strength

-Anejo Daiquiri:  Zaya 12 year and Lime 

-Dark & Stormy:  Gosslings 126 House Blend, Lime, Ginger, and Soda

-Blood & White Sand: White Rum, Pineapple, Cherry Heering, Carpano Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth, and Bitter Truth Lemon Bitters

-Mai Tai:  Nession Eleve Sous Bois, Appleton 12 year, Lime, Orgeat, and Curaco 

-Blind Lemon Jefferson:  Sazerac 6 year, Angostura Bitters, and Lemon Juice 

-Gin & Terragonic:  Martin Millers, Lime, Drambuie, Simple Syrup, and Tonic Water 

-Bellini Le Fleur:  Luksusowa Vodka, Lavender Peach Puree, and Drop Lemon Verbena Oil, topped with Champagne 

On Sunday, June 27^th, diners at Mélisse are in for a Michelin star-studded affair. In the first of several slated collaborations, chef Garcia will be partnering with fellow members of the culinary Zodiac, local hero chef Josiah Citrin and visiting chef Christopher Kostow of The Restaurant at Meadowood in Napa, to put together an unforgettable meal for us spectacle-hungry Angelenos. Garcia has amuse bouche duties while Citrin and Kostow are alternating courses (five in total). The menu is priced at $150 perperson with $20 from each meal sold going towards the Special Olympics.

Further down Wilshire Blvd. at the Fairmont, Garcia is putting on a show all his own with his FIG Hot Dog Cart. This isn’t your run of the mill street corner wiener mobile. Dogs on-hand include The 2^nd Street Dog (veggie wiener, green lentil chili, vinegar braised peppers, spelt bun), the Taco Dog (all beef wiener, slow braised carnitas, guacamole, creamed rajas, homemade esacabeche, thinly sliced radish, sesame seed bun), and of course the flagship FIG Dog (all beef wiener, cheese comte fondue, bacon-habañero marmalade, fritos, sesame seed bun). But the possibilities are endless with a do-it-yourself option that has hot dog lovers choosing from a bevy of toppings, buns, and condiments. (We’re checking the boxes next to chroizo de Bilbao and Dusseldorf mustard.) These meat rockets may seem counter productive to the beach body we’ve been training for, but lucky for us, there’s the pool nearby to work off the guilty pleasure.

Just wait an hour before jumping in.

P.S. Just a bit of self-promotion. On Wednesday, June 16, Los Angeles Magazine will be hosting an intimate culinary evening featuring the talents of (surprise, surprise) Ray Garcia. (Yeah, we can’t get enough of him either.) Watch him work, taste his wares, and try a FIG specialty cocktail, the blood orange and beet bellini. Join us from 7-9 p.m. at Snyder Diamond in Santa Monica.

Highlights include…

“James Reynolds’ photo of the fried chicken and chocolate milkshake is actually a Death Row inmate’s last meal request.

Artist Jeff Gurecka is creating a mound of bread skulls, but he bakes the bread from scratch himself. He is also including a couple of portraits that he created using discarded shells from various types of shellfish.

 Works by Clare Crespo, author of The Secret Life of Food and Hey There, Cupcake.

 The show will also include a large exhibit of retro candy wrappers, courtesy of Darlene Lacey of the Candy Wrapper Museum, who began collecting wrappers in 1977, and continues to do so today.”

 There’s a vintage cookbook museum to boot! The exhibit  runs through June 12, but the grand opening reception is this Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. Will there be hors d’oeuvres or do you just nibble the walls? We’re hoping for both. 

The Scion Installation L.A.

3521 Helms Ave.

Culver City, CA 90232

www.scion.com/space

Moms deserve the spotlight. Thankfully, L.A. restaurants have given all us guilty and grateful children a number of options to provide her the appropriate illumination. Some places are offering moments to reminisce over ricotta pancakes and frittatas; others are set on getting you and the matriarch stuffed and sloshed. If you’re a dad taking out the wife and kids, many spots are making the holiday a wallet-friendly affair with special children’s menus at discounted prices. Plan ahead. We’ve already streamlined the search for you, categorizing spots into Our Five Faves, Prix Fixe Brunches, Á La Carte Brunches, Buffet Brunches, Brunch or Dinner, Dinner Only, and Miscellaneous. Reservations are a must. 

_____________________________________________________
OUR FIVE FAVES

1) Big bucks get you killer grub (and endless bubbly).
The Belvedere @ the Peninsula
9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
310- 551-2888
peninsula.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—$105 per person
Menu Sampling: Pan-roasted walleye pike filet with red pepper polenta filled squash blossoms, avocado-mango compote and cilantro sauce; grilled angus beef tenderloin with spinach gnocchi, king cherries, and black pepper pommes Boulangére; dessert pastry buffet
Extras: Free flowing Piper-Heidsieck champagne

2) Live music to jazz-up the occasion.
CACHÉ
3110 Main St.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-399-4800
cacherestaurant.com
Map

Time: 10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Price: Two-course brunch menu—adults ($24), kids under 10 ($12.50)
Menu Sampling: Roasted tomato tart; portobello and Swiss omelet with basil; duck confit hash with poached egg
Extras: Live jazz starts at 12:00 p.m.; regular brunch menu available throughout the day and full dinner menu from 5:30 p.m.

3) Moms get a meal on the house.
CHECKERS DOWNTOWN
535 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-891-0519
checkersdowntown.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Price: Á la carte brunch menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: Meyers ranch beef carpaccio, cornichons, frisée, toasted caper vinaigrette; braised veal cheeks, fava and radish crudo, stone ground mustard; grilled Colorado lamb loin, Rancho Gordo heirloom bean ragout, natural jus
Extras: Mom eats free for dishes up to $30 in value

4) Life is good with a chocolate fountain.
SIMON LA
8555 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-358-3979
simonlarestaurant.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Price: Family style brunch menu—adult ($45), kids ($20)
Menu Sampling: Lobster eggs benedict; mini iron chef burgers; dessert station
Extras: Complimentary baked breakfast pastries and chocolate fountain feast

5) For moms who love mimosas.
THE STANDARD, DOWNTOWN
550 S. Flower St.
Los Angeles, CA, 90071
213-892-8080
standardhotels.com
Map

Price: Family style prix fixe menu—$30 per person
Menu Sampling: Mom’s kickass fried chicken, waffles, grain mustard maple; smoked salmon flat bread, Meyer lemon crème fraîche; berry “mezze”, Greek yogurt, ricotta, honey
Extras: Includes martini or mimosa; Mom & Mimosa time on the rooftop (mimosa carafe, $20)

Honorable mention for favorite dish: Two words—pancake lasagna
THE FOUNDRY ON MELROSE
7463 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
323-651-0915
thefoundryonmelrose.com
Map

Time: 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—$39 per person
Menu Sampling: Pancake lasagna—three fluffy layers of pancakes, house-made sausage, bacon, eggs and cheese; hanger steak, brown butter mash, arugula, blue cheese; chocolate peanut butter cookies, peanut butter ice cream, chocolate milk
Extras: Complimentary champagne and a rose

_____________________________________________________
PRIX FIXE BRUNCHES

CAFÉ PINOT
700 W. 5th St 

Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-239-6500
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($35.50), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: Yellow fin tuna sashimi, Provençal vegetables, petit greens, balsamic glaze; herb-crusted salmon fillet, farmer's market vegetable ragoût, pea and mint purée; Fuji apple crumble, hazelnuts, cinnamon ice cream caramel, raspberries, pistachio shortbread

CHAYA BRASSERIE BEVERLY HILLS
8741 Alden Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-859-8833
thechaya.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($38); children’s menu—kids under 12 ($18)
Adult Menu Sampling: Pink grapefruit, avocado, and fennel salad; paparadelle with Kobe beef and porcini bolognaise; panna cotta with farmer’s market berries compote
Kid Menu Sampling: House-made muffin; pancakes with chocolate, banana, and vanilla whipped cream; ice cream sundae, strawberries, chocolate chip cookies
Extras: Includes bottomless mimosas

CHAYA DOWNTOWN
525 S. Flower St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-236-9577
thechaya.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($38); children’s menu—kids under 12 ($18)
Adult Menu Sampling: Pancetta-wrapped gulf shrimp with Provençal grits; flash seared albacore carpaccio with yuzu-pepper sauce; Valrhona chocolate brownie with Tahitian Vanilla ice cream
Kid Menu Sampling: French toast with bananas and mascarpone cheese; mini cheese burger with French fries; frozen Greek yogurt with fresh strawberries
Extras: Includes bottomless mimosas

CHAYA VENICE
110 Navy St.
Venice, CA 90291
310-396-1779
thechaya.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($38); children’s menu—kids under 12 ($18)
Adult Menu Sampling: Crispy fried calmari, hot mustard dip; lobster ravioli, sautéed organic mushroom cram sauce, truffle oil; pistachio chocolate chip cookies, vanilla ice cream
Kid Menu Sampling: Caesar salad; macaroni & cheese; mango sorbet, fresh strawberries
Extras: Includes bottomless mimosas

KENDALL’S BRASSERIE AND BAR
135 N. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-972-7322
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: French onion soup, Emmenthal cheese gratinée; Alsacienne tart flambé—flat bread dough topped with smoked salmon, onion, capers, crème fraîche; strawberry pistachio sable Breton, pistachio cream, red rose coulis

MICHAEL'S SANTA MONICA
1147 Third St.

Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-451-0843
michaelssantamonica.com
Map

Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($65), kids under 10 ($30)
Menu Sampling: Sugar snap pea soup, goat cheese crostini, carrot syrup; roasted Alaskan halibut, lemon scented mashed potatoes, English pea, baby artichoke and Maitake mushroom “succotash”; strawberry rhubarb crisp and vanilla ice cream

MORTON'S THE STEAKHOUSE
435 S. La Cienega Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048
mortons.com
310-246-1501
Map

Price: Three-course brunch menu—$59 per person
Menu Sampling: Morton’s salad with blue cheese, chopped egg and anchovies; single cut filet mignon with béarnaise; double chocolate mousse
Extras: Special menu available at all L.A. locations

NAPA VALLEY GRILLE
1100 Glendon Avee.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-824-3322
napavalleygrille.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Four-course brunch menu—adult ($45); three-course brunch—kids ($15)
Adult Menu Sampling: Gazpacho style local heirloom tomato salad; brioche griddle toast with lime curd, fresh berries, and blood orange butter; Amish pork belly and poached hen eggs with bacon gremolata
Kid Menu Sampling: Apple-smoked bacon and cheddar cheese omelet; French toast with maple syrup
Extras: Tableside cocktail cart

PINOT BISTRO
12969 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-990-0500
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Price: Three course brunch menu—adults ($42), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: Saffron risotto, sautéed shrimp, fried leeks; grilled hanger steak, garlic butter, fries, baby spinach salad; tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream

ROCKSUGAR PAN ASIAN KITCHEN
10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90067
310-552-9988
rocksugarpanasiankitchen.com
Map

Price: Five-course, ten flavor menu—$44 per person
Menu Sampling: Crispy chicken samosas with cilantro yogurt; Nyona seared halibut with roasted cauliflower, okra, and tamarind yellow curry; warm coconut doughnuts with passion fruit sauce.

SADDLE PEAK LODGE
419 Cold Canyon Rd.
Malibu, CA 90265
818-222-3888
saddlepeaklodge.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adult ($50); two-course menu—kids under 12 ($35)
Menu Sampling: Quiche with gruyere cheese, sausage, mushrooms and mixed green salad; seared ahi tuna salad with baby greens, candied meyer lemon, sweet and sour radishes, orange and soy ginger dressing; banana chocolate and huckleberry bread pudding
 with vanilla ice cream

SASHI SUSHI + SAKE LOUNGE
451 Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
310-545-0400
sashimb.com
Map

Time: First seating, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; second seating, 1:00 p.m.-2:30p.m.; third seating, 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Price: Dim sum brunch—adults ($45), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: Unlimited small plates and tea, menu TBD
Extras: Children under 3 dine free, complimentary beverage of choice to all honoree guests

ZUCCA RISTORANTE
801 S. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
213-614-7800
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Price: Three course brunch menu—adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: Insalata di campo con frutti di bosco—wild berries, baby organic heirloom tomato, aged gorgonzola, raspberry vinaigrette; tortelloni di Zuccaburro e salvia—handmade roasted pumpkin tortellini, butter, sage, Parmigiano-Reggiano; dark chocolate dome, raspberry-lychee jelly, honey-flower strawberry coulis
_____________________________________________________
Á LA CARTE BRUNCHES

AKASHA
9543 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
310-845-1700
akasharestaurant.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Price: Á la carte brunch menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: Goat cheese, pea tendril and asparagus frittata, seven-grain toast, petit salad, lemon vinaigrette; Niman Ranch steak and eggs, grilled ciabatta; Bellwether ricotta pancakes, Pudwill Farm blackberries, lemon curd

CAMPANILE
624 S. La Brea Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-938-1447
campanilerestaurant.com
Map

Time: 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Price: Á la carte brunch menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: Duck leg confit, frisée salad, hazelnut aillade; grilled flatiron steak, black olive tapenade, bitter greens, flageolet beans; vanilla crème

CHEESECAKE FACTORY
189 The Grove Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-634-0511
thecheesecakefactory.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Price: Sunday á la carte brunch—price varies from $6.50-$15.95
Menu Sampling: Lemon ricotta pancakes with fresh strawberries; shiitake mushroom, spinach and goat cheese scramble; Bourbon Street omelet with spicy andouille sausage, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheese
Extras: Brunch menu available at all L.A. locations.

DELPHINE AT THE W HOTEL
6250 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
323-798-1355
restaurantdelphine.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Á la carte brunch menu—price varies
Menu Sampling:  Eggs Hussard—poached eggs, creamy polenta, peppers, onions, polenta; trout meunière, sautéed shrimp, potatoes, lemon parsley brown butter; croque monsieur ou madame
Extras: Outdoor patio seating

MARIE CALLENDER'S
773 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
mariecallenders.com
Map

Price: Special brunch menu—$15.99 per person (prices may vary per location)
Menu Sampling: Omelet bar, soup & salad bar, fresh pastries
Extras: Includes champagne; special menu available at all L.A. locations

THE YARD
119 Broadway
Santa Monica, CA  90401
310-395-6037
theyardsm.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Á la carte brunch menu—price varies ($9-14)
Menu Sampling: Souffléed strawberry French toast with Harry’s berries and banana custard; chicken fried chicken with house biscuits and gravy, and a marinated heirloom tomato salad; lemon yogurt, house granola, fresh berries
Extras: Deluxe Bloody Mary bar

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BUFFET BRUNCHES

BLUE RIBBON GARDEN WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL
141 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-972-7565
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: Seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Price: Buffet—adults ($58), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: smoked salmon, herb crêpes, peppered crème fraîche; Atlantic salmon paillard, chilled salad of shaved fennel, red onion, cucumber and mustard yogurt dressing; banana cream pie, scoop of chocolate mint sorbet

DESCANSO GARDENS
1418 Descanso Dr.
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
818-949-4200
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: Seatings at 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m.
Price: Buffet—adults ($50), members ($42), kids under 12 ($17)
Menu Sampling: Lemon fettuccine, seared shrimp, asparagus, herbs; classic quiche Lorraine, apple wood smoked ham, Gruyère, sweet onion; cherry trifle, Kirsch diplomat cream, toasted almonds

PENTIMENTO AT LACMA
5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-857-4761
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: Seatings at 11:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Price: Buffet—adults ($35), LACMA members ($32), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu Sampling: Poached Atlantic salmon, shaved fennel, Ruby grapefruit, citrus oil; carvery—hand-carved apple wood smoked ham, wild flower honey mustard, freshly baked rolls; selection of chef’s special Mother’s Day petit fours

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BRUNCH AND DINNER

BISTRO GARDEN AT COLDWATER
12950 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-501-0202
bistrogarden.com
Map

Time: Brunch (11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.); dinner (5:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m.)
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($48), kids under 12 ($30); three-course dinner menu—adults ($58), kids under 12 ($30)
Brunch Sampling: Cold poached salmon; Maryland lump meat crab cake; Bistro Garden soufflé
Dinner Sampling: Scottish smoked salmon pancakes; risotto with seared seascallops; apple tart tatin

CRAFT LOS ANGELES
10100 Constellation Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90067
310-279-4180
craftrestaurant.com
Map

Time: Brunch (11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.); dinner (5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.)
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adult ($55), kids under 12 ($22.50); á la carte regular dinner menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: Smoked ocean trout with pickled red onion, caper & crème fraîche; short rib & shishito pepper hash with baked egg; cinnamon sugar doughnuts with Venezuelan chocolate & apricot compote

KITCHEN 24
1608 North Cahuenga Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-465-2424
kitchen24.info
Map

Price: Á la carte menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: Bartender’s banquet—tortilla wrapped scramble of bacon, onions, eggs, sprouts, salsa, and sour cream with half waffle, strawberries and whipped cream; Monte Cristo sandwich—roasted turkey, black forest ham, and Swiss cheese served “French toast style” with grain mustard; chocolate chip cookie in a skillet with ice cream
Extras: Red Velvet Cupcake and Dirty Blonde Champagne cocktail for $12

FRENCH MARKET CAFÉ
2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-577-9775
frenchmarket-cafe.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Price: Special prix fixe brunch menu—$18 per person; á la carte regular dinner menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: TBD
Extras: Complimentary glass of champagne

LILLY’S FRENCH CAFÉ AND BAR
1031 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-314-0004
lillysfrenchcafe.com
Map

Time: Brunch (10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.); dinner (served after 5:30 p.m.)
Price: Prix fixe brunch menu—$20 per person
Menu Sampling: Fresh fruit bowl; croque monsieur; scrambled eggs with smoked salmon
Extras: Complimentary glass of wine;

PATINA
141 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-972-3331
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: Brunch (11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.); dinner (4:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.)
Price: Three-course brunch menu—adults ($49), kids under 12 ($29); á la carte special dinner menu—price varies
Brunch Sampling: Velvety lobster velouté, spring vegetables; skate wing grenobloise, capers, croutons, diced tomatoes; crème fraîche panna cotta, mango sorbet, exotic fruits
Dinner Sampling: duck foie gras terrine rhubarb and strawberry chutney, toasted country bread; prime beef tenderloin, glazed short ribs, asparagus, potato Boulangére, scallions, black olive infused sauce; tres leches, coconut tapioca, spiced rum, frozen pineapple

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DINNER ONLY

DRAGO CENTRO
525 S. Flower St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-228-8998
dragocentro.com
Map

Time: 5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Price: Six-course dinner menu—$75 per person (additional $40 for wine pairing)
Menu Sampling: Ricotta stuffed squash, balsamic crème; confit salmon, pancetta, celery root; chocolate terrine, praline, vanilla crème
Extras: Option of Mother’s Day seasonal berry tart for á la carte diners

TRATTORIA AMICI
469 N. Doheny Dr.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-858-0271
tamici.com
Map

Time: 5:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m.
Price: Á la carte dinner menu—price varies
Menu Sampling: Risotto with asparagus and smoked salmon; baked “Italian Stripped bass” cooked in a foil pouch 
and marinated with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and Pinot Grigio; grilled N.Y. steak with Chianti and wild mushroom sauce

VERTICAL WINE BISTRO
70 N. Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91103
626-795-3999
verticalwinebistro.com
Map

Time: 4:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.
Price: Three-course dinner menu—$49 per person (additional $26 for wine pairing)
Menu Sampling: Foie gras, pan-seared and served with assorted mushroom, sprouts and frisee tossed in a warm coriander-laced soy sauce; filet of beef served with gorgonzola gratin potatoes, spring vegetables, and a bordelaise sauce; lemon tart served with Italian meringue
Extras: Complimentary glass of Gruet Rose sparkling wine
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MISCELLANEOUS

THE AMERICAN TEA ROOM
401 N. Canon Dr. 
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-271-7922
americantearoom.com
Map

Price: High Tea Menu—$50 per person
Menu Sampling: Breakfast radish tea sandwich with butter and lemon confit; crab salad with mint and peas; matcha green tea shortbread cookies
Extras: Assorted chocolates provided by Valerie Confections

This year, however, the beer-loving duo have opted out of the fierce sandwich battle. But worry not HK fans! You can still stuff your face with their demented dairy creations at the Hot Knives vendor truck, where Evan and Alex will be cooking alongside pro’s like Campanile and the Border Grill. But after seeing the trio of offerings the Knives will be slinging, We're not sure Peel, Milliken, or Feniger stand a chance.

Revealed here for the first time, here’s what to expect from Evan George and Alex Brown this Saturday:

From the Knives: “True to our roots, we have painstakingly crafted three perfectly balanced sandwiches that we’ll be serving on Saturday. All of them are slightly weird and feature more exotic cheeses than most the other vendors would ever attempt. We call them “Band Camp,” “Lemon Sunn,” and “White Light/White Heat.” (their descriptions below).

To celebrate what has become the Coachella of Grilled Cheese, we took it one step further: Our sandwiches have stage times. We will be serving one sandwich at a time with posted times so that attendees can experience each sammich if they wish.”

Sandwich 1: "Band Camp"

Aged and bandaged cheddars and handmade apple butter

(think a warm, crusty slice of apple pie with a slice of white cheddar and salted caramel) 

Sandwich 2: "Lemon Sunn"

Bloomy rind sheep's milk cheese and lemon oil

(think rich, oozing ricotta semen with a lemon curd burst)

Sandwich 3: "White Light/White Heat"

Goat gouda and homemade kimchi

(a salty, spicy yin-yang, and a neccesary extention of the kimchi taco that leaves you asking, is it the cheese or the grilled kimchi that's funky?)

Bread, butter, cheese, victory indeed! Taste them for yourself this weekend. 

Get ready to gorge yourself in your Sunday best at one of the many Los Angeles restaurants serving up Easter brunch. Be it a prix fixe or a buffet, indoor or al fresco, you’ll finally be able to get your hands on all the decadence you gave up these past 40 days and 40 nights. Got kids? No problemo. Most spots will cater to the offspring at reduced prices. And some are even organizing on-site egg hunts. The game is afoot! Reservations are a must.
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BRUNCH PRIX FIXE

BISTRO GARDEN AT COLDWATER
12950 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-501-0202
bistrogarden.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Price Three-course menu; adults ($48), kids under 12 ($25)
Menu highlights: Maryland lump meat crab cake with pasilla chili sauce; classic eggs Benedict, home-style potatoes with peppers and onions; lemon soufflé, raspberry purée and fresh whipped cream

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CACHÉ
3110 Main St.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-399-4800
cacherestaurant.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Price: Special brunch menu, $25 per person
Menu highlights: Spring pea and mint soup; confit duck leg poached egg, white beans, niçoise olive; smoked salmon frisèe, asparagus, Meyer lemon, dill crème fraiche
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CAFÉ PINOT
700 W 5th St 

Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-239-6500
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu highlights: Yellow tuna sashimi; ricotta pancakes with strawberry confit; vanilla panna cotta, blueberry sorbet, berries (full menu online)
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CHAYA BRASSERIE BEVERLY HILLS
8741 Alden Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-859-8833
thechaya.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu highlights: The Chaya classic tuna tartare; cinnamon roll French toast with farmer’s market berry compote; grilled free-range chicken breast with apple & fourme d’ambert (full menu online)
Easter egg: Includes bottomless mimosas
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CHAYA DOWNTOWN
525 South Flower St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-236-9577
thechaya.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu highlights: Avocado, grapefruit, and shaved fennel salad with roasted pine nut dressing; pappardelle Kobe beef porcini bolognaise and poached egg; frozen yogurt with fresh strawberries (full menu online)
Easter egg: Includes bottomless mimosas
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CHAYA VENICE
110 Navy St.
Venice, CA 90291
310-396-1779
thechaya.com
Map

Time: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu highlights: Crispy fried calamari; miso-marinated orange roughy with hijiki brown rice; pistachio chocolate chip cookies with vanilla ice cream (full menu online)
Easter egg: Includes bottomless mimosas
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CHECKERS DOWNTOWN
535 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-624-0000
checkersdowntown.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Price: A la carte
Menu highlights: Rock shrimp and saffron risotto with Spanish chorizo, elephant garlic, and sundried tomatoes; pan roasted Sonoma duck breast with Medjool dates, cauliflower, toasted quinoa, and sautéed spinach; downtown braised shortrib “potpie” with wild mushrooms, celery root purée, and baby root vegetable (full menu online)
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CRAFT LOS ANGELES
10100 Constellation Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90067
310-279-4180
craftrestaurant.com
Map

Time: 2:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; $75 per person
Menu highlights: Heirloom chicory salad; diver scallops, asparagus, roasted lemon & La Ratte potato salad; wild strawberry shortcake, rhubarb and mint frozen yogurt
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DESCASO GARDENS
1418 Descanso Dr.
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
818-949-4200
descansogardens.org
Map

Time: Seatings at 9:00a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; adults ($50), members ($42), kids under 12 ($20)
Menu highlights: Early summer seasonal fruit ratatouille; hand-carved honey-glazed ham, apple-cinnamon compote, creamy Dijon, soft brioche rolls; warm chocolate croissant bread pudding (full menu online)
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DISH BISTRO & BAR
53 E Union St.
Pasadena, CA 91103
626.795.5546
dishbistroandbar.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Á la carte
Menu highlights: Wild mushroom omelets with house-made bacon, pain perdu with house-made brioche; cherry cheesecake danish
Easter egg: Bottles of Prosecco for $15
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LILLY’S FRENCH CAFÉ AND BAR
1031 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-314-0004
lillysfrenchcafe.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Special prix fixe menu, $12 per person
Menu highlights: Fresh fruit bowl; croque monsieur; scrambled eggs with smoked salmon
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PINOT BISTRO
12969 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-990-0500
patinagroup.com
Map

Time: 10:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu; adults ($35), kids under 12 ($15)
Menu highlights: Steamed Carlsbad mussels béarnaise; thinly sliced whole garlic studded leg of lamb, marjoram jus, gratin Dauphinois; coconut lime mousse cake, roasted pineapple, raspberry jam, exotic sauce (full menu online)
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SADDLE PEAK LODGE
419 Cold Canyon Rd.
Malibu, CA 90265
818-222-3888
saddlepeaklodge.com
Map

Time:11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Three-course menu, adults ($50); two-course menu, kids ($25)
Menu highlights: Wild mushroom, sausage and caramelized onion mini quiche; grilled sumac crusted Ahi tuna with wasabi yogurt, radish salad 
and chili garlic haricot vert; mixed berries with sweetened Tahitian vanilla scented cream
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SIMON LA
8555 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-358-3979
simonlarestaurant.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Family style meal, $40 per person
Menu highlights: Belgian waffles (blueberry, chocolate chip, or plain) with whipped cream; endive & organic watercress with candied walnuts, Point Reyes blue cheese, Fuji apple; roasted NY strip with fava purée and tomato-olive sauce
Easter egg: “Dessert under the tree buffet" (includes chocolate eggs, carrot cupcakes, coconut macaroons, house-made marshmallows, assortment of cookies and other surprises)
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BRUNCH BUFFET

GORDON RAMSAY
1020 N San Vicente Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 9006
310-358-7788

Map

Time: 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Price: Al fresco buffet, $85 per person
Menu highlights: Sweet water shrimp risotto; aged smoked beef tenderloin; strawberry shortbread
Easter egg: Includes free-flow champagne, mimosas, and Bloody Marys
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HOUSE OF BLUES
8430 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
323-848-5100
houseofblues.com
Map

Time: Seatings at 9:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
Price: Southern style buffet; adults ($38), senior ($30), child ($16.50)
Menu highlights: Cheddar cheese grits; Creole chicken jambalaya; hot apple cobbler
Easter egg: Soulful live performances as you eat
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RESTAURANT AT SUNSET MARQUIS
1200 Alta Loma Rd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-353-3700
sunsetmarquis.com
Map

Time:10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Price: Champagne brunch, $65 per person
Menu highlights: Honey-orange braised duck salad with sweet fennel & pinenut vinaigrette; Alaskan salmon Wellington in a pastry crust with a tarragon sauce; carrot pineapple cake with warm crème anglaise
Easter egg: Probable bunny sightings, but not guaranteed
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BRUNCH + GAMES

THE BACKYARD AT W LOS ANGELES
930 Hilgard Ave. 

Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-443-8218
thebackyardw.com
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Price: Special prix fixe menu; adults ($42), kids under 10 ($19)
Menu highlights: Mint-marinated watermelon and organic pink grapefruit salad; brioche French toast with sweet butter, Vermont maple syrup and a trio of berries; basket of scones
Easter egg: Poolside dining, egg hunt at 12:00 p.m.
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FRENCH MARKET CAFÉ
2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310-577-9775
frenchmarket-café.com
Map

Time: Breakfast/brunch menu served 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Price: À la carte
Menu highlights: Le Cheval (open toasted sandwich with 2 fried eggs on top of ham and melted Swiss cheese); various omelets; French and American pastries
Easter egg: Egg hunt between 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
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ROYAL/T CAFÉ
8910 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
310-559-6300
royal-t.org
Map

Time: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Price: Special à la carte brunch menu, $6-$25
Menu highlights: Peter Rabbit’s carrot ginger soup for $6; Sunday scramble (three egg scramble with spinach, shiitake mushrooms and garlic, served with home-style potatoes and a choice of Kurobuta sausage, bacon or a slice of roasted ham) for $9; Royal/T high tea set (quiche, egg salad sandwich, smoked salmon canapé, tuna tartar, colorful macaroons, carrot cake cupcake with cream cheese frosting, mixed berries, and Easter-themed treats, and a choice of tea) for $25
Easter egg: Kids Craft Garden (bunny-ear making, yarn flowers, and Easter egg-decorating) throughout the day; exclusive viewing of Ukrainian-inspired Easter egg masterpieces made by L.A. based artist Lyman Sebastian Tillinger, 12:00p.m.-3:00 p.m.
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WILSHIRE RESTAURANT
2454 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-586-1707
wilshirerestaurant.com
Map

Time: Easter dinner, 5:30 p.m. 9:30 p.m.
Price: adults ($60), kids under 12 ($30)
Menu highlights: Arugula salad with prosciutto, fava beans and parmesan; roasted leg of Colorado spring lamb and minted salsa verde; homemade classic cakes and ice cream (full menu online)
Easter egg: Egg hunt begins at 6:30 p.m.

So when my foodie husband nabbed a hot reservation for LudoBites Fried Chicken Night at Akasha in Culver City Monday night, I changed out of my tight jeans and into my stretchy pants in anticipation.

We were seated promptly when arrived for our reservation at 9, and Akasha’s cavernous room was full and buzzing but not over-crowded. We started with a Sazerac (“Because it seems like the right thing to do,” my husband said). He was right.

The “host” of this poultry-centric evening was none other than Akasha owner Akasha Richardson, the former vegan trendsetter who has branched out a bit. We started by ordering two small plates of her devising—a salad of roasted beets and pickled red onions and a wild shrimp étouffée with grilled ciabatta. Other entrées offered by Richmond last night enticed, especially the Idaho trout with toasted almonds and Cajun fingerlings, but those will have to wait for a return visit.

Bring on the balls! Lefebvre’s boneless spheres of fried chicken were the stars of the evening, and our waiter simply asked, “How many orders?” Presented three-to-a-plate along with lemon aioli, the rosemary-crusted chicken balls shone. Lefebvre shapes pieces of boneless dark meat, dredges them in an herb-inflected batter, and fries the gems until they're just cooked through. He then sprinkles the remarkably crispy outer crust with a bit of minced rosemary. It's what I imagine take-out chicken is like in heaven.

Richmond provided a selection of four sides to compliment Lefebvre’s chicken, and with our two orders we got to try all of them: crème fraiche mashed potatoes, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, and some exquisitely rich braised collard greens with cured bacon.

When we asked if we could take an order to go (for my sister-in-law who had agreed to babysit in exchange for some of Lefebvre’s chicken), we were told that they only had enough to cover their reservations. Showing tremendous self-discipline, we managed to save her some of our own portions, and we were gratified to watch her open the container right on the counter later when we got home and dig in.

One might wish Lefebvre would find a permanent L.A. home, but then again, sitting in Akasha’s gorgeous room with a live jazz trio, we felt like we had been invited to the perfect Southern party. On our way out, Lefebvre (fresh from running the L.A. marathon on Sunday) and his wife, Kristen, bid everyone farewell.

For a homeless chef, Lefebvre sure produces lots of food – another LudoBites stint (in which Lefebvre takes up residence within someone else’s kitchen for a spell and presents a broad menu) is scheduled for Apr. 8-May 18 at Gram & Papas downtown. But here’s hoping another lively Ludo chicken-fête will come along soon, too, somewhere.

Long been a sanctuary for European ex-pats and French chefs, French Market Café on Abbot Kinney has it all: a gourmet market, a wine cellar, and a fetching patio. Now it has dinner to add to its illustrious 17 year-long résumé, which means we can finally enjoy their boeuf Bourguignon, crêpe du jour (today it’s ham and swiss) as well as their quiches after 6 p.m. Then we can take the experience (and the leftovers) home with us. Pick up a bottle of wine and some ready-to-eat specialties from the market, and you’ll be all set to recreate the French countryside in your very own backyard. That is, if you have a backyard.

Dinner is served Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m.-10p.m.

March Madness might be a little less “mad” in Los Angeles without UCLA and USC in the tournament (boo!), but Townhouse Bar + Kitchen in Sherman Oaks is set on hosting some grown-up NCAA viewing sessions (Yay! Or rather, “Good show!”). This won’t be your typical nachos and dip smorgasbord, however. Till the end of the month, Townhouse will be offering the ominously monikered gourmet Triple-Threat Angus burger ($13.99) topped with fried jalapeno, pepper jack cheese, bacon with wing sauce, and a fried egg. (Did I lose count? Shouldn’t this be called a quadruple-threat?) And let’s not forget the suggested booze pairing. The menu recommends gorging on the bunned heart-stopper with a Stella Artois or a Smoking Loon Petit Syrah. It all sounds good to us.

During the semifinals and finals in early April, the menu expands to include mini-shrimp dogs in a Creole sauce ($9), chipotle chicken rolls ($5.99), and a three-pointer dip with tortilla chips ($5.99). Well I guess you can’t have a basketball game without nachos. (BTW. Not complaining.)

That still might be a tall order, though. There are more than a few misconceptions in need of correcting. Take me, for instance: Before yesterday, I’ve never been much of a rosé drinker. As I found out, I’m just like the majority of Americans who haven’t given the wines a shot at home or when out to eat. With their pale reddish almost pinkish tones, they can be easily mistaken for those cloyingly sweet liquor-store decoys. But they’re not blushes or white zinfandel. They’re dry and retain the distinct complexity of its varietals. Nor are rosés the intuitive blends of white and red wines we expect them to be. They’re actually the product of a mix of solely red wine grapes (often Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah) that have curtailed exposures to skin and stems that result in lighter hues.

But American sentiments aren’t the only problems rosé producers have had to face. In 2009, the nomenclature of rosé wines was a point of major contention in Europe. This is wine, not war mind you, so despite the drama back in Europe, it was smiles across the board as I traveled from table to table swirling, tasting, and yes, spitting. But of all the presentations, I found the spiel by wine director Paul Chevailer of Château d’Esclans the most intriguing. With his four offerings (and his trusted laptop), he took me on a self-appointed “journey up a hill,” where as the grapes aged on this mound, so did the rarity of wine. All the rosés at his table were winners, but two stood out specifically. The first was the Garrus, touted as the most expensive rose in the room, priced at $105.  Only three barrels are produced in a year. The second won for most memorable name, Whispering Angel. And at a reasonable $21, it mostly likely reflects the impact on our bank accounts when we go out and get a bottle.

Also provided at the event was a buffet menu from the Comme Ça kitchen. Most of the dishes—including olive oil poached tuna, Australian barramundi escabeche, and ratatouille of shredded lamb—are not on the restaurant’s regular menu. These mainly Mediterranean delights were meant to enhance the wine rather than overshadow them. The quiche Lorraine and pâté de campagne on crostini plus accoutrements were appropriately rich and decadent. Better yet, they were easy to consume with a wine glass in hand. Another standout was a spoon sized beet salad with goat cheese and frisée that was bright, and elegantly direct. One thing I missed on the menu was heat. Many of the wine producers recommended the pairing of vin rosé with spicy food, but I’ll have to take their word for it. (Might I radically suggest a rosé tasting at a Mexican restaurant next year?)

An interesting note: One thing I noticed about the Comme Ça’s dining room was the relative quietness. For a restaurant notorious for its rumble, I was amazed by the number of audible (and surprisingly coherent) conversations during the tasting. I would later learn from sous chef Eric Samniego that the entire dining room had recently been sound-proofed. The upside: healthy exchanges at the table. The downside: no excuse for not paying attention. (My words. Not his.)

Santé!

Outstanding Chef:
Suzanne Goin  (Lucques)
Mark Peel (Campanile)

Rising Star Chef of the Year:
Benjamin Bailly (Petrossian, West Hollywood)
Casey Lane (The Tasting Kitchen, Venice)

Outsanding Restaurant:
Mélisse, Santa Monica

Best New Restaurant:
Tavern

Best Chef Pacific:
Michael Cimarusti (Providence)
Josiah Citrin (Mélisse, Santa Monica)
Andrew Kirschner (Wilshire, Santa Monica)
David LeFevre (Water Grill)
Matt Molina (Osteria Mozza)
John Rivera Sedlar (Rivera)

Outstanding Wine Service
Patina

Outstanding Service
The Dining Room at the Langham, Pasadena

We wish all the semifinalists (yes even those non-Angeleno contestants) good luck. But to be honest, we’re eager to add trophies to the city’s mantle. We’re still riding high from Michael Voltaggio’s top toque from Top Chef and have developed a taste for victory.

Finalists will be announced on Monday, March 22, 2010 (the agony!) and the winners revealed at an awards ceremony and gala at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall in NYC on Monday, May 3, 2010.

See the full list of nominees here. 

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PRIX FIXE EXTRAVAGANZAS

Amy’s Culinary Adventures

Address revealed upon reservation
OneNightInParis.Eventbrite.com

Date & Time: Feb. 13, 7 p.m.

Price: Four-course menu; before Feb. 4th ($115), after Feb. 4th ($125)

Food: Decadent French; Menu TBD

Extras: Complimentary glass of wine           
__________________________________________________
Artisan

1401 Park St.
Paso Robles, CA 93446?
805-237-8084
artisanpasorobles.com
Map

Date and Time: Feb. 12-13, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Feb. 14, 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Price: Five-course menu ($69)

Food: Lobster chowder, creamed leeks, Debbie’s bacon, cracked black pepper butter crackers; Charter Oak beef tongue ravioli, slow braised beef cheek bolognese; chocolate conversation heart and house-made chocolate confections
__________________________________________________
The Bazaar by José Andrés

465 South La Cienega Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-246-5555
thebazaar.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 6 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

Price: Seven tapas ($95)

Food: Not your everyday caprese salad, tuna ceviche, foie gras cotton candy
__________________________________________________
The Bistro Garden at Coldwater

12950 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA, 91604
818-501-0202
bistrogarden.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14-15

Price: Three-course menu ($78)

Food: Macadamia crusted Hawaiian mahi mahi with citrus pineapple relish, jasmine rice and assorted baby vegetables; beef Wellington with black truffle sauce, creamed spinach, baby carrots and cauliflower; chocolate soufflé, fresh whipped cream?

Extras: Complimentary rose for the ladies on Sunday, complimentary chocolate or raspberry soufflé with each entrée on Monday
__________________________________________________
Bistro LQ

8009 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-951-1088 
bistrolq.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14; 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m.-10 p.m.

Price: Three-course menu ($60)

Food: Beet pico de gallo, sautéed Atlantic salmon, lemon and olive oil ice cream; beef culotte, bone marrow tartine, and braised cipollini onion in sunchoke purée, ras el hanout spices; chocolate truffle gateau/rose water semifreddo/pistachio vachern mignardises

Extras: Indoor and outdoor seating
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BLT Steak

8720 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-360-1950
bltrestaurants.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m.

Price: Blackboard menu ($70)

Food: Truffle studded filet mignon with bone marrow flan and sauce bordelaise; coffee crusted venison loin with creamy nutmeg spaetzle and chocolate-chili demi-jus; butter poached Maine lobster with vanilla infused gnocchi and anise

Extras: Couples opting for the blackboard menu will receive a complimentary glass of champagne and chocolate mousse tart with candied pecans and dulce de leche.
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Café Descanso

1418 Descanso Dr.
La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011
818-790-3663
patinagroup.com
Map
 
Date & Time: Feb. 14, 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Price: Three-course menu; Descanso members ($65), non-members ($73)

Food: Roasted beet salad, tangerines, chèvre, watercress, lemon crème fraîche; pan-seared sea bass, sautéed brussels sprouts, baby carrots, saffron jus; fragrant tagine of spring vegetables, creamy polenta

Extras: Complimentary glass of wine or sparkling wine
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Café Pinot

700 West 5th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-239-6500
patinagroup.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 12-14, after 4:30 p.m.

Price: Three-course menu ($60), Four-course menu ($75)

Food: Slow braised pork belly, fried rice cake, homemade kimchee; duo of beef-roasted filet mignon, red wine braised short ribs potato fondant, whole roasted shallots, bordelaise sauce; strawberry rhubarb tart, crème fraîche quenelle, hibiscus jus

__________________________________________________

Cecconi’s

8764 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-432-2000
cecconiswesthollywood.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 5:30 p.m.-11 p.m.

Price: Six-course menu ($85), Wine paring ($45)

Food: Wild mushroom cappuccino; winter black truffle & ricotta ravioli; châteaubriand for two, winter root vegetables, peppercorn sauce

__________________________________________________
Charlie’s Malibu

22821 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Malibu, CA 90265
310-456-3132
charliesmalibu.com
Map

Date: Feb. 13-14

Price: Four-course menu ($75), Wine pairing ($20)

Food: Poached pear with herbed goat cheese and candied walnuts, filet mignon, lobster tail 

Extras: “Bitter, Party of 1” theme on Feb. 13; DJ Kid Wycked spinning through the weekend from 9 p.m. to close
__________________________________________________
Checkers Downtown

535 South Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-624-0000
checkersdowntown.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($75)

Food: Ahi tuna salad with pomegranate, blood oranges, baby Lola Rosa lettuce; grilled local calamari with kalamata olives, cipollini onions, haricots verts and roasted garlic aioli; coconut bread pudding with Tahitian vanilla ice cream

Extras: Complimentary downtown cocktail of choice
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Comme Ça

8479 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood, CA 90069
323-782-1104
commecarestaurant.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 5 p.m.-11 p.m.

Price: Four-course menu ($60), Wine pairing ($30)

Food: Vegetable terrine, soccer tart, Nicoise olive, tomato water; egg yolk ravioli, ratatouille, spinach, sauce romesco; caramelized brioche, lemon preserve, lavender ice cream

Extras: “Little black purse” filled with fleur de sel caramels; brunch offered (9 a.m.-4 p.m.)
__________________________________________________
Cube

615 N. La Brea Ave.
Los Angeles, California 90036 ?
323-939-1148
cubemarketplace.com
Map

Date: Feb. 13

Price: Couple’s Fondue for two ($70)

Food: Artisan cheese fondue, roasted farmer’s market winter vegetables, Meyer lemon, coeur a la crème

Extras: Pour of Prosecco, house-made truffles and confections to take home
__________________________________________________
The Dining Room @ the Langham

1401 South Oak Knoll Ave.
Pasadena, California 91106
626-568-3900
www.pasadena.langhamhotels.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Five-course menu ($110), Wine pairing ($70); Eight-course menu ($150),Wine pairing ($100)

Food: Menu TBD
__________________________________________________
Domenico Ristorante

1637 Silver Lake Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
323-661-6166
domenicoristorantesilverlake.com
Map

Date: Feb. 13-14

Price: Three-course menu ($69)

Food: Swordfish carpaccio with fennel salad, pomegranate & lemon dressing; breast of duck with dry cherry sauce and medley of sauté vegetables; white & dark chocolate soufflé
__________________________________________________
Drago Centro

525 S. Flower St.?
Los Angeles, CA 90071?
213-228-8998
dragocentro.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($55), Wine pairing ($35)

Food: Butternut squash ravioli, lemon brown butter; roasted lamb, artichoke hearts, brown butter pomme purée, rapini; strawberry semifreddo, basil, whitechocolate

Extras: Masquerade carnival with decorations and live music; costume and mask strongly encouraged
__________________________________________________
Elements Kitchen

107 South Fair Oaks Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-440-0100
elementskitchen.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($65)

Food: Cuban beef picadillo empanada; Moroccan chicken tagine, Turkish apricots, dried plums, chick peas, Spanish olives, toasted curry sweet potatoes; tabbouleh salad with pomegranate seeds

Extras: Three hors d’oeuvres and three-course take home dinner ($55); brunch offered
__________________________________________________
Eva Restaurant

7458 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-634-0700
evarestaurantla.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($75), Wine pairing ($25)

Food: Lobster agnolotti; john dory, black truffle; veal loin, peas, morels
__________________________________________________
Fraîche

Culver City:
9441 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
Map
Santa Monica:
312 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Map
fraicherestaurantla.com

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($75)

Food: Mushroom salad, monkfish, milk chocolate crémeux
__________________________________________________

Jiraffe

502 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-917-6671
jirafferestaurant.com
Map

Date: Feb. 13-14

Price: Three-course menu ($85)

Food: Farmer’s market beet “tartare”,? Caseficio Gioia burrata cheese, baby artichokes, red flame grapes, toasted almonds; Jidori chicken “paella”, Iranian saffron, fregola sarda, Manila clams, shellfish, chorizo, green olives, roasted chicken jus; chocolate hazelnut bombe, Meyer lemon pudding cake
__________________________________________________

Katsuya

All four locations
Bentwood:
11777 San Vicente Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-207-8744
Map
Glendale:
702 Americana Way
Glendale, CA 91204
818-244-5900
Map
Hollywood:
6300 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
323-871-8777
Map
LA Live:
800 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
213-747-9797
Map
sbe.com/katsuya

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Omakase Four-course menu ($150 per couple), Wine, cocktail, or sake pairing ($30 per person)

Food: Menu TBD

Extras: Omakase and a dozen roses ($210)
__________________________________________________

Kendall’s Brasserie and Bar

135 N. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213-972-7322
patinagroup.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Three-course menu ($65), Four-course menu ($75)

Food: Seared yellow fin tuna, mélange of legumes, parsley emulsion, tomato chutney; leek crusted salmon fillet, potato purée, scallion, vichyssoise cream; milk chocolate mousse, passion fruit crémeux, coconut dacquoise, strawberry jus
__________________________________________________
Lola’s

945 North Fairfax Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
323-654-5652
lolasla.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($90 per couple)

Food: Arugula salad with sautéed sea scallops & pancetta in a champagne vinaigrette; tilapia with mint raita served with curried lentils; winter spiced caramel apple upside-down cake with vanilla bean ice cream
__________________________________________________
The London West Hollywood

1020 N. San Vicente Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-358-7788
thelondonwesthollywood
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Time and Price: 5 p.m.-7 p.m., Five-course menu ($240 per couple); 8 p.m.-10:30p.m., Seven-course menu ($350 per couple)

Food: Duck consommé with foie gras tortellini, chard leeks and beech mushroom; dry aged beef tenderloin, spiced short rib jam roasted artichoke hearts, port wine shallots and truffle beef jus; passion fruit opera cake with crème fraîche ice cream
__________________________________________________
Lucques

8474 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90069
323-655-6277
lucques.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($110)

Food: Potato gnocchi with wild mushrooms, asparagus, English peas and pecorino; herb-roasted rack of lamb with flageolet gratin, roasted radicchio and tapenade; vacherin glacé with hazelnut praline, vanilla ice cream and crushed coffee beans
__________________________________________________
Mélisse

1104 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-395-0881
melisse.com
Map

Date and Price: Feb. 12-13, Four-course menu ($135); Feb. 14, Five-course menu($225)

Food: Egg caviar, poached egg, lemon-chive crème fraîche, American Osetra caviar; duo of foie gras “seared and terrine”, blueberry, ginger, and hazelnut; Sonoma lamb loin, green garlic, portabello mushrooms, vanilla-sherry sauce
__________________________________________________
Michael’s on Naples

5620 E. 2nd St.?
Long Beach, CA 90803?
562-439-7080?
michaelsonnaples.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($55)

Food: House-made mozzarella with prosciutto wrapped grilled asparagus; homemade spaghetti with Maine lobster, crushed tomatoes and white wine; Meyer lemon panna cotta with rhubarb sauce
__________________________________________________
Morton’s The Steakhouse

Beverly Hills:
435 S. La Cienega Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: 310-246-1501
Map
Burbank:
3400 West Olive Ave.
Burbank, CA 91505
818-238-0403
Map
Downtown:
735 South Figueroa St.
Los Angels, CA 90017
213-553-4566
Map
Woodland Hills:

1100 Glendon Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
310-824-3322
napavalleygrille.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($50)

Food: Hearts of palm salad, oro blanco grapefruit, Louis sauce; crispy bay scallop, minted English peas, Meyer lemon sabayon; rum baba, strawberry cream
__________________________________________________
Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse

330 S. Hope St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-680-0330
patinagroup.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, after 4 p.m.

Price: Dinner for two ($150)

Food: Signature Caesar salad hearts of romaine, herbed brioche croutons, shaved parmigiano-reggiano cheese; 20 oz prime châteaubriand oak wood grilled and slow roasted served with Yukon Gold potato purée, creamed baby spinach, bordelaise and béarnaise sauces; surprise dessert for two
__________________________________________________
Ortolan

8338 West 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-653-3300
ortolanrestaurant.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 12-14, 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

Price: Special prix fixe Feb. 12 ($60), Feb. 13 ($135), Feb. 14 ($165)

Food: Marinated scallop, lemonade fruit and tarama with Osetra caviar; beef shabu shabu, mushroom consommé with black truffle; fruit macaroon, grape fruit sorbet

Extras: Tango in Paris Friday (Feb.12) with performance by David Chu and partner; brunch offered on Sunday
__________________________________________________
Patina

141 South Grand Ave.
Los Angeles CA 90012
213-972-3331
patinagroup.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 13 (service begins at 5 p.m.), Feb. 14 (service beings at4 p.m.)

Price: Four-course menu ($125), Wine pairings ($65)

Food: Marinated hamachi, geoduck cucumber vinegar, avocado, crostini, green apple mustard; seared Hudson Valley foie gras, salsify, grapes, apples, herb salad, garlic nougatine; blood orange tian, citrus caramel, chantilly, sable breton
__________________________________________________
Pentimento at LACMA

5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323- 857-4761
patinagroup.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 11:30 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Price: Three-course menu ($38)

Food: Diver scallop carpaccio, blood orange, shaved fennel, wild arugula, winter citrus vinaigrette; roasted whitefish, Napa red wine-braised boneless short rib, brown butter roasted root vegetables, purée of yukon gold potato, herb gremolata; roasted whitefish Provençal vegetables
__________________________________________________
Pinot Bistro

12969 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818-990-0500
patinagroup.com
Map

Date: Feb. 12-14

Price: Three-course menu ($60), Four-course menu ($75)

Food: Smoked salmon and crab salad pillows, celery root remoulade, toasted Parmesan; shiitake and oyster mushroom puff pastry Napoleon, crushed hazelnut vinaigrette; cognac flamed chicken, sweet potato fries, sautéed haricot vert, mango
__________________________________________________
Rock Sugar Pan Asian Kitchen

10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Century City, CA 90067
310-552-9988
rocksugarpanasiankitchen.com
Map

Date: Feb. 12-14

Price: Five-course menu ($88); Grand Brut Champagne pairing ($60)

Food: Green mango and papaya salad with lacquered bbq ribs; Singapore butter lobster, young ginger, Thai basil and chilies; Vietnamese snow cone
__________________________________________________
Royal/T

8910 Washington Blvd.?
Culver City, CA 90232
310-559-6300
royal-t.org
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Price: Four-course menu ($60)

Food: Mango, shiitake, kanpyo spicy roll; breaded cod, jumbo shrimp, Viognier beurre blanc, yuzu garlic aioli; spicy chocolate mousse, orange confit
__________________________________________________
Saddle Peak Lodge

419 Cold Canyon Rd.
Calabasas, CA 91302
818-222-3888
saddlepeaklodge.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 13-14, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

Price: Four-course menu ($125), Wine pairing ($60)

Food: Kumamoto oysters ?poached in a champagne lemon verbena cream with herbs and American caviar; seared foie gras with quince jam, rhubarb champagne syrup and apples fondant; grilled New Zealand elk tenderloin with currants, arugula, sweet potato and celery root
__________________________________________________
Sona

401 North La Cienega Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-659-7708
sonarestaurant.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 5:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

Price: Six-course tasting menu ($140), Wine pairing ($95)

Food: Sake marinated duck; Maine lobster and ricotta gnocchi with shell fish emulsion and black trumpets; Kobe NY sirloin and short ribs with green curry potato pavé and mushroom fricassee

Extras: Complimentary glass of sparkling wine and a box of chocolates
__________________________________________________
The Standard, Downtown LA

550 South Flower St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
213-892-8080
standardhotels.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Three-course menu ($130 per couple)

Food: Menu TBD

Extras: Champagne cocktail, live music from Papillon in the lobby
__________________________________________________
The Terrace @ the Langham

1401 South Oak Knoll Ave.
Pasadena, California 91106
626-568-3900
pasadena.langhamhotels.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Four-course menu ($95), Wine pairing ($30)

Food: Roasted ginger chicken consommé, shiitake scallion dumpling; soy mirin glazed sea bass, wilted spinach, toasted sushi rice cake, pickled sesame carrot salad; strawberry sabayon parfait, mint ice cream, balsamic mint strawberries
__________________________________________________
Vertical Wine Bistro

70 N Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91103
626-795-3999
verticalwinebistro.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Five-course menu ($65), Basic wine pairing ($55), Deluxe Wine Pairing($135)

Food: Rib eye carpaccio; seared Hawaiian ahi tuna with potato beaujolais and carrot puree; Muscovy duck confit with northern beans, chanterelle mushrooms and lobster broth
__________________________________________________
XIV

8117 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
323-656-1414
xivla.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14; 6 p.m., 8 p.m., and 10 p.m.

Price: Eight-course menu ($135)

Food: Caviar parfait, sheeps milk ricotta strozzapreti, New York strip steak

Extras: Vegetarian options available, live music
__________________________________________________
Zucca Ristorante

801 South Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
213-614-7800
patinagroup.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, service begins at 4 p.m.

Price: Three-course menu ($60), Four-course menu ($75)

Food: Ahi tuna tartar, avocado, jicama, tangerine wedges, micro greens, fried onions; black squid ink risotto, butter poached Maine lobster; roasted rabbit, vegetable, wild fennel, black truffle, guanciale roasted potatoes, garlic spinach
__________________________________________________
À LA CARTE ADVENTURES

Agura

514 N. La Cienega Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90048
310-289-1940
aguradining.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Varies

Food: Chirashizushi in a heart shaped bowl, blue fin tuna tartar
__________________________________________________
Akasha

9543 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
310-845-1700
akasharestaurant.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 14, 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Price: Varies

Food: Brown butter farm egg, frisée, house cured bacon, torn crouton; Niman Ranch lamb ragout, pappardelle, parmesan; flourless chocolate cake, chocolate meringues, raspberry-chocolate chunk ice cream

Extras: Live jazz music from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.; bakery offering 12 mini cupcakes boxed and wrapped ($20)
__________________________________________________
Chaya Brasserie Beverly Hills

8741 Alden Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-859-8833
thechaya.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Varies

Food: Seared scallop and anikimo millefeuille, oyster shooters with spicy ponzu, dark and white chocolate covered strawberries
__________________________________________________
Chaya Downtown

525 South Flower St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
213-236-9577
thechaya.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Varies

Food: Shrimp and oyster Florentine, Côte de boeuf, gâteaux marjolaine
__________________________________________________
Chaya Venice

110 Navy St.
Venice, CA 90291
310-396-1179
thechaya.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Varies

Food: Seared Hokkaido scallop, Maine lobster and Kobe beef short rib hot pot, bread pudding
__________________________________________________
Kabuki

1545 Vine Street
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-464-6003
Map
Available at all 13 locations
kabukirestaurants.com

Date: Feb. 14

Price: Varies

Food: Ginger shrimp on crispy rice, spicy tuna crunch roll, miso marinated black cod

Extras: Plum champagne ($7.95), cake and ice cream special ($7.95)
__________________________________________________
Pourtal Wine Tasting Bar

104 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica,  CA 90401
310-393-7693
pourtal.com
Map

Date: Feb. 14, 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

Price: Varies from wine to wine

Extras: 2 for 1 glasses of bubbly; “Secret Valentine” guests who purchase bubbly or a tasting card get a free pour ranging from $2-$8
__________________________________________________
Rush Street

9546 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
310-837-9546
rushstreetculvercity.com
Map
 
Date: Feb. 13-14

Price: Varies

Food: Tataki nachos with seared ahi, avocado, slaw & wonton chips; encrusted tilapia, roasted fingerling potatoes, sundried tomato, artichoke hearts, spinach, olive tapenade; apple tart with Calvados caramel & cream

Extras: Half-off featured wine and champagne all day long on Feb. 14
__________________________________________________
Simon L.A.

8555 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048?
310-358-3979?
simonlarestaurant.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 13-14, 6 p.m.-11 p.m.

Price: Varies

Food: Creamy crispy king crab legs, stuffed organic chicken for two, Valentine’s Day junk food platter
__________________________________________________
Wilshire Restaurant

2454 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310-586-1707
wilshirerestaurant.com
Map

Date & Time: Feb. 12-14, 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

Price: Varies

Food: Blue crab soufflé, béarnaise, asparagus, fennel; char siu pork tenderloin parsnip purée, pickled cabbage; red garnet doughnuts, glazed red garnet yam, maple, pecans, pecan praline ice cream

A collaboration of the Innovative Dining Group (Sushi Roku, BOA) and New York chef Sascha Lyon (Daniel, Pastis, Balthazar), Delphine hopes to be your new neighborhood retreat while satisfying the tastes of the W's oh-so hip vagabond clientele. The menu itself is full of French classics (and French words) galore. Anyone for Le Petit Déjeuner? Breakfast offerings include an omelette aux fines herbes and a tartine with nutella (We still can't get enough) and preserves. Lunch and dinner highlights include steak frites, whole roasted lobster, and a braised lamb shoulder. But the Sunday special is the dish we're most anticipating: cassoulet.

Delphine serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week with brunch on the weekends. See the website for more details.

"Wine is tricky," says Chef Aaron Robins of Boneyard Bistro, a beer and BBQ favorite in the heart of Sherman Oaks. "It's not just the grape varietal, it's the region, the vintage, the producer. With beer, you have more flexibility, and you can find the right beer for the right food without investing a fortune."

With turkey, Robins recommends ambers or pale ales. "I wouldn't lean towards IPAs or anything too hoppy. Find something with a good balance, like Russian River Damnation.” For ham or prime rib, he goes darker. “A Belgian ale like St.Bernardus Abt 12 or the blue Chimay would work quite well."

Patrick Rue, brewer and owner of the Bruery in Placentia (another one of Robins’ faves), recommends his Autumn Maple, a seasonal sipper spiked with sweet potatoes, spices, and yes, maple, "It’s Thanksgiving in a glass," says Rue. Also from the Bruery, Saison Rue, with its light funk and spicy rye character. "You can also use it to baste and inject the turkey, and it’s delicious when used in the mashed potatoes."

"A world-class beer is going to be much more affordable than even just a passable wine," says Rue.

"Besides," adds Robins, "beer is so much more fun." Agreed.