Beefsteak -- A Mirage in the Desert

Beefsteak
69930 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, Ca. 92270
760 328 9814

The Scene: Downtown very chic
Cuisine: nouvelle California
Must Try: Organic Beefsteak Tomato Tartar
Star Rating: 3
Best Dish: White Corn & Lobster Bisque



A Mirage in the Desert—We don’t have a beef with “BEEFSTEAK”

Tucked away in Rancho Mirage’s “design center” an upscale shopping center called The Atrium, Chef/Owner Eric Wadlund has broken the curse of this venue (formerly mediocre Biga and then noisy and dark Peters) by creating one of the deserts best and newest eateries.

We all love a weekend away in the Palm Springs area, but for far too long our dining choices have been a sea of mediocrity, dotted with a few lifeboats of upscale alternatives. As you know by now, The Dining Duo always makes it a point to visit a restaurant at least three times before casting judgment, but in this case, we’ve visited Beefsteak at least a half dozen times because it’s such a treat. This new addition to Highway 111 has finally brought the desert a fine dining choice right smack between Palm Springs and La Quinta.

Open 5pm to 10pm every day but Monday, come rain (okay, not much of this in the desert) or shine, Mr. Wadlund was sensitive to the fact that young folks like to dine at all times, and not necessarily at 6pm for the early bird special, followed by bed time shortly thereafter. A great pick for post-movie dining, accessibility from The River in Rancho Mirage, or the Mary Pickford Theatres in Cathedral City is simple, and the parking is plentiful and easy.

The moment you walk in, the friendly staff greets you; Rafael the bartender is front row center with a friendly hello and Darrell is the welcoming maitre d’, always willing to find you that perfect table. Make certain to ask for Thomas, the ubiquitous waiter extraordinaire (you’ll also find him serving at Cuistot).

The milieu hasn’t changed much since the last incarnation, but it’s now quiet and elegant, seating about 100 folks, with capacity for 130. There is a new wine room, which reflects the enjoyably broad spectrum of wines available. Although there is a corkage fee of $20 if you bring your own, management will waive that if order the same bottle of wine on the menu, which is a nice touch for a typical policy.

So where’s the Beef? Not necessarily on or definitely not with the menu; the name comes from Chef’s homage to the beefsteak tomato and produce that comes natively from the Coachella Valley. In fact, one of his signature dishes—which is just divine—is the organic beefsteak tomato tartar, which is a mélange of vine-ripened heirloom tomatoes, ricotta cheese, tarragon and olive oil (well worth the $12). That said, our Chef has spent a great deal of his career in chophouses, and as a result, he ages, cures and cuts all of his own top grades of meat. In fact, one of our friends who we dined with proclaimed that their Beef Steak, the bone in strip steak served with their incomparable truffle French fries at $39, was the best steak they had ever eaten.

Do not miss the White Corn and Lobster Bisque that Michael has enjoyed so much he’s had it on every occasion we’ve dined there; it is always superb, a wonderful combination of white corn and lobster and served piping hot. Another favorite is Eric’s Crab Cakes, at $15, loaded with crab and which fall apart as we enjoy them, a sign of a great crab cake.

The desserts are varied, but we particularly enjoyed the homemade ice creams. Our favorite was the creamy chocolate malt, but the blackberry was a close second finish. However, the best part is that whether or not you order dessert, Chef delivers some homemade delicious chocolate cookies (second only to “Scott’s Dots”, Scott’s own creations) for no charge; he’ll even give you the recipe. “I think everybody should get a little present,” says Chef Eric proudly, and we agree. It makes you overlook the little present of the bill, which is a bit pricey for desert standards, but you wouldn’t blink an eye if this fabulous restaurant were in L.A. Thank you Eric for creating this delightful mirage in an otherwise dry desert of choices.

* * *

The Dining Duo can be reached at TheDiningDuo@aol.com ; feel free to send us suggestions for new restaurants to review! If you suggest it, we’ll mention you in the article.

Please send this www.thediningduo.blogspot.com link to all your friends and family who love to eat well. They’ll thank you, and we thank you!


Review meals are paid for by The Dining Duo.

"CUBE" is not for squares....

Cube
615 North La Brea Av
LA 90036
323 939 1148

11 AM-10 PM Mon- Fri
11 AM-11 PM Sat

The Scene: Cheese bar with tables
Cuisine: home made pasta
Must Try: Lamb Sausage Lasagna
Star Rating: 1.50
Average Cost: Entrees $10 to $17


Cube is definitely not the place to eat if you’re rushing. With delicious food as a lure, getting past the tenuous “service” is a challenge, but doesn’t seem to stop a young crowd from coming.

On a tired parcel of La Brea south of Melrose, this “cheese bar” reminds us of a European deli for takeout goods, and perhaps a place to rest your feet. The atmosphere is minimal and sports only a half a dozen simple wood tables inside, with an equal amount of metal tables outside.

Cube doesn’t serve liquor, but they encourage you to bring wine with no corking fee, a welcome touch. Of course, that means you actually have to wait for a server to open it, which might happen sometime before Christmas. We had to wait for napkins, cutlery and water (order bottled water as their tap is not filtered and tastes it). As long as The Dining Duo is griping, aren’t you tired of a darkened restaurant and being handed a menu with miniscule writing on it? Cube’s printing is so small that you might as well just ask the waiter (if you can find him) what he recommends.



Start with a flight of cheeses. Cube boasts a giant selection, and we were not disappointed. Just tell your waiter whether you like sharp, pungent, or mild, and enjoy the surprise that’s delivered. We did, especially when it was served on a chalk board with each name written by it.

After the intolerably long wait for our main courses (Scott went into the kitchen to secure napkins for us, which apparently didn’t bother the waiters), we were delighted to sample some of the delicious items on the menu. Pasta is a specialty; as they are owned by the Divine Pasta Company. The spicy lamb sausage ground with béchamel sauce and lasagna proved to be the highlight of the evening, with such a special blend of spices that its low price of $13.95 proved extraordinary. Aaron Eastland, the chef from Cube—formerly from New York—also excels on the home made goat cheese ravioli sprinkled with eggplant ($12.95). Try the roasted garlic pesto pizza, fired over wood; Although the latter was heavy on garlic, it was accompanied by walnuts and gorgonzola. Also worth tasting is the Spicy Italian Sausage at $14.95, which reminded Michael of New York’s little Italy.

Unfortunately, as good as the main course and appetizers proved, the desserts were disappointing. The bread pudding (again, delivery was pathetically slow) was bland and uneventful, and expensive at $7.95.

When asked if we would return, The Dining Duo said, “Yes, if we were in the neighborhood, but only if we brought sleeping bags for breakfast.”

Michael & Scottie

Tower of Power

The Tower Bar
(In the Sunset Tower Hotel)
8358 Sunset Boulevard
West Hollywood, California
323. 654-7100


Everything begins and ends with Dimitri Dimitrov, the consummate maitre d’hotel, formerly of L’Ermitage and Bel Age fame. When Tom Ford of Gucci glitterati introduced him to Jeff Klein, the owner of both the Tower Bar and Sunset Tower Hotel, the dining room immediately took its place amongst the “who’s who” of Hollywood. Dimitri remembers every face, treating each patron as if they were Madonna—who The Dining Duo noted recently munching on a Tuna and Monk Fish Burger with her Guy, Guy on one Sunday burgers only night. The guest list at the Tower is like the who’s who of Hollywood, with Brian Lourd and Uma Thurman sending drinks to Clive Davis at the other end of the bar, while Marilyn Manson and his gorgeous ex-playmate wife, Dita Von Teese, conspicuously snuggle in the corner. There’s so much celebrity and pretty people watching you probably won’t notice the food.

If you haven’t guessed by now, it’s not necessarily about the food at the Tower; the food is just fine, but not memorable. What is memorable is the handsomely designed and furnished club atmosphere and listening to the famous Page Cavanaugh, the 84 year old Jazz pianist (who is an old family friend of Michael and has performed at our home). With enough wood on the walls to deplete a Brazilian rain forest, the crackling fire sets a romantic glow upon the myriad gorgeous old Hollywood photographs. Comfortable silk-laden chairs and even more cozy booths create a mood of being in a rich friend’s family room. So who needs spectacular food? And with enough stars in the room to generate a glare, you may not notice the rather ambitious price tag either.

After a beautiful glass of Moet Rose for $20, we were served a cold dish of crudités accompanied with a mint yogurt dipping sauce as well as a dish of extra virgin olive oil. Scott feasted on the appetizer special, the Hudson Valley Foie Gras, his favorite, delicious, prepared with caramelized shallots and a port wine reduction sauce at $23. We’re sorry to report that it was downhill from there. The Vichyssoise ($12) was thick and creamy (who doesn’t like thick and creamy?), but it was a bit limp and should have been served colder.

This being our requisite third visit, we decided to try yet again different dishes. This time, Michael requested the Tower Burger, served with well prepared thin fries and a tangy dipping sauce. The burger was unmemorable, but the price wasn’t forgettable at $21. With so many sensational burger choices in this town, we were disappointed, especially when there was more uneventful bun than burger.

Scott ordered the Rack of Colorado Lamb, at a pricey $38 and was found it to be both tough and gamey tasting. It was piled on top of something non-descript, which was overly burdened with a much-too heavy sauce disguised as a Bordelaise. On another visit, we sampled the Salmon, which to their own admission is prepared “simply” and garnished only with dispassionate baby spinach ($29), and although we again applaud the Tower for serving up the wild version, it too was uneventful and unremarkable. Upon further inquiry, we learned that Chef Piero Morovich had hailed from Italy and first cut his teeth at Los Angeles’s Ammo, but in our opinion he hasn’t fine-tuned his cuisine to compete with the restaurants of this caliber, and this price range.

If there was a pastry chef, he/she should be taken out back and shot. The deserts were far below standard and we would have preferred Sarah Lee at Pavillions. The Chocolate flourless cake ($12) was nearly inedible, tasted dry, devoid of taste and was probably not made that day. The other deserts were not worthy of mention either. With one hot tea, our bill for two always went north of $200. Add another $6 (plus tip) for the valet, which is nearly mandatory on sunset, and you end up with an average dining experience in an above average people-watching, foot-tapping watering hole for the elite.

The service was always top notch, and the handsome Tom-of-Finland security guard Paul who is as big as a door and twice as nice, made us want to come back when the food’s improved.

Red Pearl Kitchen

Red Pearl Kitchen
6703 Melrose Ave

The Scene: Metrosexual Hot
Cuisine: Pan Asian Fusion
Must Try: Close your eyes and point to a menu item
Star Rating: 3
Average Cost: Prix fixe is the best option $45-$75


Only in L.A. can you eat dinner with gorgeous people all around you, AND be in a reality show at the same time. “The Hills” was filming at the table next to us, and we couldn’t decide who was more beautiful, the women or the men.

The Dining Duo enjoyed an Asian feast each time at the new, happening and hopping Red Pearl Kitchen. At the site of the old Alex & Citrus, just west of Highland, the only thing that remains the same is the odd floor. You hardly notice it once you walk past the attractive valet girls and through large exotic carved wood doors, it feels as though you’ve entered a South-East Asian opium den of another century. There’s a separate bar and lounge area, and the restaurant is a giant room filled with lanterns, warm creamy booths and dark teak wood tables.

The crowd is definitely young and pretty, and very metrosexual; the wait staff matched the look. That always makes eating a little more fun. Yet if you strip away the appealing façade, you’re still left with great service and dynamite food prepared by the Thai chef, Ped, who brings the influences of his homeland and those around him to each and every dish. The tasting menu, which the chef creates on the spot, is the best way to dine, and even though one half of the Dining Duo is a bit of a control freak (guess which one), we relented and ate so many interesting and tasty dishes that we just about burst ($45 or $75 per person).

For some of the highlights start with Dim Sum; the Ribs simmered in strawberries and cinnamon ($9) were a taste sensation and the Teriyaki glazed chicken ($9) put a whole new spin on an Asian staple. The use of exotic spices made the Udon Noodles smothered with a generous amount of duck and yellow curry sensational ($11). Chef Ped is big on shrimp, and every variation we tried was superb. Try the Black pepper and caramel shrimp ($16) and see what we mean. The chicken and mango fried rice, laced with basil, ($10) was outdone only by the Udon noodles simmered in bacon, smoky miso and topped with a fried egg ($12).

In true orgasmic style, even the desserts are called “happy endings”, and they were; don’t miss the Vietnamese Coffee Sundae which just about made us have our own happy endings ($6). Hang on to your receipt because if you come back the following Monday, regardless of how many folks you bring, the eats are half price on everything.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Like father like son. It’s all too rare that a restaurant in Los Angeles can exist, even excel, for over twenty-three years; it’s even more rare that a son born into the business can spawn the next generation with finesse and panache. Such is the story of Mario and his handsome son, Sal, who have created Marino’s and Il Grano, respectively, both a few miles apart and yet light years different.

MARINO
6001 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles
Cuisine: Traditional Italian
The Scene: Roman Holiday
Must Try: Mafaldo Dominica
Star Rating: 3 of 4
Average Cost: $12-$23 Entrees

Every time we enter Marino, it’s akin to going home for dinner (without the screaming and yelling, of course). If we had a traditional Italian family, then it would be the Marino family. Michael practically grew up as a member of their family, having eaten there for 23 years, including preview dinners the week before they opened.

The sensational traditional Italian food is unparalleled and we have never been disappointed, having dined there well over one hundred times. Think Roma with the décor, which is appropriately dated with pink walls, popcorn ceilings and myriad oil paintings on the walls. Start with their Pizza bread (you have to ask for it as you won’t find it on the menu); it’s pizza without anything on it, but when you add some butter, you can’t stop eating it. Ask Chef Mario, 73 years old, who started at Chianti on Melrose at 22 years old, to create his off menu dish, Malfaldo Domenico, Michael’s favorite. It’s lasagna noodles smothered with warm Ricotta cheese in Marino’s perfect Marinara sauce for approximately $14. One of our favorite things about Marino is that they use only the appropriate amount of garlic and you don’t walk away smelling like you’ve been to the Stinking Rose or Maria’s. Another must taste is the Branzino (striped sea bass) de-boned at your table and prepared exactly as we tasted it in Italy, but better. Market price is $44 for two. Another favorite dish, Veal Parmagiana, is light and fluffy, which is unusual for the typical sauce laden Veal Parmagiana at other Italian destinations, and it’s well priced at $17.50.

Don’t forget to say hello to the Marino family because they will certainly remember you when you return. And if you tell them Michael and Scott sent you, well, you’re part of the family!





IL GRANO
11359 Santa Monica Blvd, West L.A.
Cuisine: Nouvelle Italian
The Scene: Intimate chic
Must Try: Fegato Grasso (Foie Gras)
Star Rating: 3 of 4
Average Cost: $24-30 entrees

After fighting the endless construction of the west side’s beautification, a walk into Il Grano is like taking a giant breath of fresh air. Small and intimate, the two rooms present a clean white backdrop offset by creamy banana colored booths and chairs of the same shade. Crisp white tablecloths with simple flowers at the center create a canvas for the food delights created by Sal himself. The dark hardwood floors make the entire room pop, and the full bar, albeit small, is offset by a simple spray of fragrant lilies.

Stefano, the Maitre D of Valeninto fame, is as much a welcoming presence in the front as Sal is in the back. Sal whips Italian into new taste treats such as the Rollata Di Proscuitto, Fegato Grasso D’Oca E Fichi, which is Parma Proscuitto, Foie Gras and Fig roulade, served up on a frisee fresh cherry salad; a personal favorite of Scott’s and worth every cent of the $18. The shaved Porcini Rugola is graced with an 18 month aged parmigiano salad that is delicious, although the portions were smallish for the $18 antipasti price. The Maine Lobster open ravioli (not ravioli, but a type of noodle that we’ve never experienced) on yellow corn and a dash of spinach pasta was presented in an artistic fashion that made the taste even more sensational ($19). In fact, so many dishes were unique and well presented, we recommend the Menu Degustazione, which is the Chef’s tasting menu of five courses for $65. Sal also provides a tasting menu of five courses for vegetarians for $49. With a Moscato D’Asti dessert wine in hand ($8), the Triple chocolate Marguise lightly graced with a ganache sause tasted even nicer than it looked.

With traditional and cutting edge Italian food just around the corner, it’s no wonder why this father and son keep their successes all in the family!

I HAVE A YEN FOR JAPANESE

Take a quick retreat from Ventura Boulevard by strolling into Yen Sushi and Sake Bar for some surprisingly delicious dishes. The small storefront restaurant is sleekly stylish and simply appointed, with wood floors, concrete-toweled walls, and a dozen heavy wood tables and chairs (which prove to be a tad bit uncomfortable on the backside). Thick bamboo pieces grace the entryway, after which the focal point of the restaurant is the sushi bar. As you walk in the door, a transformation begins and the friendly sushi chefs and wait-staff greet you immediately (all in Japanese, though we later found out they are predominantly from Korea).

The calming environment immediately sets the tone for a delightful assortment of sushi, nouveau Katsu-ya style semi-cooked sushi and traditional Japanese items. If you toast the chefs with a cup of saki, they will get very creative with their offerings. Michael adores sushi, so he gravitated to the Spicy tuna roll ($5.50), yellowtail ($6) and freshwater eel ($4.50), both of which delivered on freshness and taste. Scott doesn’t like sushi at all (“unless it’s cooked”); however, that said, their specialty of the house, the crispy rice with spicy tuna ($9.50), proved to be absolutely out of this world and worth braving the world of slimy uncooked things.

Make sure to start your meal with their miso soup, which is always tasty, and the “yummy-yummy crispy tuna” (that’s their name, not ours) appetizer ($8.50), which was just that. We recommend following with the broiled salmon steak with teriyaki sauce entrée ($17), which comes with a side salad and a tasty sprinkling of sticky white rice. Also worth noting is the pan-roasted lobster tail ($25). Unfortunately, we discovered that the wine selection is very limited, so we recommend bringing your own selection and paying a minimal corkage fee, which appears to be negotiable as it was presented to us as somewhere between “$10 to $15” (we paid $8).

Most nights are quite busy, and at times waiting for a table is mandatory. Monday nights are much slower, but the tranquility is interrupted by a flat-screen television screaming Monday night football. If you can get past a bunch of sweaty men in tights pouncing on each other (which, don’t get us wrong, can be of fun), and wish to bring your own wine, this little find on Ventura Blvd. (near Coldwater) will lure you back for meal after meal.

The Scene: A yen for zen
Cuisine: Traditional Japanese and more
Must-try: Crispy rice with spicy tuna
Star rating: 2.5
Average cost: Entrées range from $15-$26

Yen Sushi and Sake Bar
12930 Ventura Blvd. #120
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 907-6400
Other locations in Century City and Belmont Shore, Long Beach

A Wynn-Win Situation

Faster than a trip to Palm Springs, a short plane ride drops you off in the center of a theme park for adults, namely Las Vegas. We spent our 20th anniversary together at the Wynn Las Vegas and never left the hotel. There’s no reason to do so, and here’s why:

ALEX
888-352-DINE

The mother of all restaurants, this one is not to be missed for any reason. Take a mortgage on your home, sell the kids, take an add in the back of Frontiers for your lover, but get there any way you can. One enters the voluptuous room from an elevated landing so that the view is down and into one of the most elegantly appointed rooms we’ve ever seen. From the Moreno glass chandeliers dripping from the ceiling to the diamond-shaped wood paneling and matching cut crystal glass doors, your first impression makes you forget to breathe. As you waltz down the grand staircase like Vivien Lee in Gone with the Wind, you get to see and be seen by the who’s who of Vegas who clamor for a much needed reservation. The elegance of the environment is only outdone by the meal.

We enjoyed the tasting menu, which was beyond sublime, created by the magical talents of Alessandro Stratta. In our lives, we have never spent so much money for food at $375 per person (exclusive of tax and tip), but we report here and now that it was worth every penny. Complimented by superlative service from Fabrice Bais (who we remembered very fondly from his days at L’Orangerie), who coordinated every course with perfectly presented and timed delivery, we sampled such delectable items as Sauted Foie Gras with Cider Honey and Plum, Maine Lobster with black truffles, a combined favorite of Michael’s but not Scott’s, and Medallion of Venison which has never been prepared better.

The magic of the tasting menu, however, is the extraordinary experience of pairing magnificent and hard to come-by wines with each course. The Master Sommelier, Paolo Barbieri, one of less than 80 in this country and 125 worldwide (although of note, 12 are located in Las Vegas) has acquired wines from around the world that are so small they can pick and choose to whom they will deliver. Normally these wines are out of reach in price, but the chef’s menu allows the possibility of sampling a glass of each, such as a Muscato from Greece, which can only be compared to one of our favorite, orgasmic like wines, Chateau d’yquem. If you ask, Paolo, will show you his private reserve in the heavily guarded wine cellar where we were fortunate enough to hold a $32,000 bottle of wine from the 1800’s.

After all this wine and food, stumble upstairs to a magnificent room overlooking the strip and get a good night’s sleep because the next night will be another food fest at Wing Lei.



Wing Lei
Phone number


Don’t expect fortune cookies at this Chinese restaurant. The exterior is framed in cut stone topped with giant symmetrical golden pots, and the interior space holding 152 seats glimmers with walls of abalone pieces, volumes of rich maroon and gold colored fabrics, and gorgeous red velvet chairs fit for royalty. The dining rooms view out towards four 100 year-old pomegranate trees imported from China, all of which are bent with age and lit like a masters painting. A rare, handcrafted black onyx bar fills one corner, while small sculptures on tiny shelves accent the design, setting the tone for a serious meal.

We ordered off the menu, requesting that we be served “authentic” Chinese food, and our request was honored with perfection. The level of service and respect also mirrored the majesty of the various dining rooms. Starting with a host of appetizers created by the chef, Richard Chen incorporates a western flair into traditional Chinese cooking. We quickly worked our way into the Shark fin soup, a true delicacy commanding an enthusiastic price of $125, which is available only by special request, and the last time we tasted this dish with such quality was in Hong Kong. Signature dishes include Peking duck, which can be tasted in several different forms, all beyond compare and Szechwan chili prawns with garlic-spiked spinach. For those of you that are courageous, ask your waiter to prepare a sampling of delicacies, which are usually only available in the far east.

Unlike most places in Vegas, people dress up for this venue, as well as for Alex. Both restaurants command that respect and its fun to break out the nice wardrobe. Once again, be prepared because dinner will run $200 at the low end, and our check was north of $900.


From: Wynn, Elaine
Date: Wednesday, April 19, 2006 3:36 PM
To: ses@scottschwimer.com
Subject: Your review



Dear Scott and Michael,

What a fabulous piece you did on our restaurants. As I read through it I kept saying. "They got it, they got it!"

All of the details you observed were meticulously created to evoke your kind of response. It is so gratifying to have it played back to us.


I shared your article with our designers and the Food and Beverage Department.

You are obviously gentlemen of discriminating taste!!!

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Elaine Wynn


TABLEAU
Phone number


Chef Mark LoRusso’s attractive French country restaurant, pool side, indoors and out, is the place to sober up on Sunday afternoon with a perfect Bloody Mary or a glass of champagne. Light and airy, it overlooks one of the private pools and feels like its miles away from the madding crowd. Scott found the pineapple French toast was delicious, and the bacon was the right degree of thick and crunchy. Michael really enjoyed the Poached Eggs and Duck hash. We were told that the Virginia Ham Fritatta with melted onions is also a winner, but were too stuffed to try it out. Our server, Carol, had overheard that it was our 20th anniversary and bought us a round of drinks, then presenting us with a special anniversary chocolate dessert with our names inscribed. The atmosphere is casual chic and a glorious way to end our stay creating a Win-Wynn weekend.


CHOCOLAT


No doubt you will have just enough room left to run by this little chocolaterrie for a sugar rush before leaving for the airport. A host of different selections, they all are displayed beautifully and beckon to be eaten. You won’t go wrong with any of them, and they make the unfortunate plane ride home all that much more worthwhile.

All in all, you never have to leave this glorious hotel in order to experience a Wynn-win situation!

“GOSH, MR. WILSON”

The Scene: Architectural Loft
Cuisine: Cutting edge
Must Try: Chocolate Natia
Star Rating: 2 out of 4
Average Cost: Entrees $14-$35

Wilson Food & Wine
8631 Washington Blvd
Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 287-2093

Just down the street from the old Helms Bakery, amidst hip furniture stores and a new flurry of restaurants, is Wilson’s Food and Wine. Housed in a ‘50’s modern-deck building with glass windows affording a view to Washington Boulevard, this unassuming diner-like restaurant is downstairs from a series of contemporary lofts and commercial spaces. The back patio screams industrial, with concrete walls, stainless steel tables, and a series of bamboo-laden pots (none of which hide the incessant barking dogs located just beyond).

Although the menu offers some interesting selections, brought to us by handsome Chef Michael Wilson, formerly of 5 Dudley in Venice, none of them particularly grabbed us. The special appetizer heirloom tomatoes and goat cheese salad at $16 was succulent and loaded with goat cheese. Scott started with the appetizer version of the spaghetti à la Lina, which was an exciting sauce of olive oil, toasted almonds, arugula, and tomato ($14), and one of the nicer selections on the menu. The special soup, a carrot puree with an assortment of spices and olive oil, weighed in as a favorite as well, although not for those expecting a traditional carrot bisque.

Unfortunately, the entrees were mediocre at best. The baked wild Alaskan king salmon with skewered shallots, Swiss chard, and poppy seeds, garnished with citrus butter, tasted like a watery mish-mash of spices and uninspired fish. Equally perplexing was the slow-roasted pork with African spices, fresh corn polenta, and barbecued fresh cherry sauce ($23) that left Michael with an unsettled stomach.

Our waiter called us “darling,” “dear,” and “love” throughout the evening, which oddly compensated for the mediocre service comprised of bringing entrees at unequal times, forgetting to bring the tea, and a variety of other unpolished services. The best news of the evening was the desserts, and in particular the chocolate natia, which tasted like a delicious chocolate pudding. While we enjoyed this tremendously with our two dinner guests, one of them summed up the evening saying that dining on the patio was like “dining at the reception area of a state prison.”

Prison attire aside, we did enjoy the experience and would recommend it for lunch if you find yourself exploring Culver City.

Everything sounds better at Vibrato

Vibrato Grill Jazz
2930 Beverly Glen Circle
Bel Air, CA 90077
(310) 474-9400


It’s not that girl from Ipanema; it’s not the big girl from the Abby; it’s that beautiful daughter of the legendary Herb Alpert (and his famous Tijuana Brass), Eden, and when she welcomes you as you walk through the door of Vibrato, you know you’ve arrived to something special.

Hidden at the top of Beverly Glen just south of Mulholland, and far from the maddening crowd, the jam-packed bar is hopping to the cool sounds of jazz as a live band on stage beckons you to come in and join the party. About three years ago, the Alperts poured a ton of money into a defunct restaurant, transforming it into a fashionable and artsy environment centered around an elevated stage. Although it’s always about jazz at Vibrato, it’s also about food—great food. Recently imported from Colorado where the men are men and the sheep run scared, the new chef, Eric Ennis also makes beautiful music in the kitchen.

Although we certainly miss their garlic bread, which we thought to be the best on the west coast, their updated classic Creamy Tomato Soup, served on a Humbolt fog crouton and mixed with basil and olive oil, has been there from the onset and remains a staple at a snappy beat of $10. It’s the perfect way to start the meal. And for those that aren’t diet conscious, start with Michael’s favorite Macaroni & Cheese, a superb zesty blend of three different cheeses and is a definite must for people who are not worried about their girlish figures. We will be on the search for the best Mac & Cheese in the future but Vibrato is up there.

The Butter Lettuce salad, at a cool $11, is a combo of hearts of Palm, shaved Ricotta, toasted walnuts and topped with a flawless green goddess vinaigrette dressing, and it tastes as if freshly imported from Provence in France. If political correctness is not your thing, order up the poor-little-cramped veal, which, served with a bone, looks like a giant tennis racket as it spills over your plate. If you’re like Michael who isn’t concerned about his food being political, then you’ll just love this dish; it is HUGE, which we like! The Salmon (wild, thank you very much) is prepared with a sauce of horseradish infused leek and served per the chef’s suggestion at medium rare. Surrounded by a bed of sweet corn fingerling potato hash and wild aruglua, it is clean and delectable at a crescendo of $34. The Crispy Long Island Duck is as tart as Amy Fisher on the hunt for Mary Jo Buttafuco, prepared with red grapefruit, pearl onions, barley risotto and a sherry gastrique for a jazzy $32. Any of the various grilled selections can be accompanied by a Cabernet red wine sauce, single malt scotch peppercorn sauce, classic béarnaise sauce, sun dried tomato chutney sauce or caramelized onion and bleu cheese sauce, all of which just say, “yum”.

Relax over a hot herbal fresh leaf tea and listen to the to real cool cats on stage as you cleanse your palate with a selections of tangy sorbets. By the time it comes to pay the bill, the music and a full stomach will make you not even take notice.

”Oh-my-gawd”, There’s Life in the Valley

Much to our friends shock and dismay, two years ago we moved ever so slightly over the top of Mulholland; we call it: “North Beverly Hills”, but our friends call it Studio City. Being the food snobs that we are, we got our passport and shots and ventured into “the Valley” looking for signs of life, and amazingly, we found it.

Amongst the host of mediocrity, we discovered five stand out restaurants within 3 miles of our home. Here is a small sampling of the best Studio City has to offer, covering all price ranges.

Our favorite pick of the litter, ”Max”, is the creation of Philippino owner and chef, Andre Guerrero (formerly of Saddle Peak Lodge). As a result, all his presentations have an Asian fusion influence that is both distinctly exotic and wonderful. Remember, Michael is the meat eater, so he simply couldn’t resist the Applewood Smoked Baby Back Ribs, which proved to be amongst the best he had ever tasted. Scott chose his favorite standard, Salmon, but this Peppercorn dusted salmon dish moved to the head of the class. It was so expertly and deliciously prepared that he ranks it amongst the finest he has experienced in Los Angeles. We highly recommend the Thai Lemongrass Coconut soup, which percolates just the right combo of herbs and spices. After dining here three times, each experience proved to be a great one, along with excellent service. The atmosphere is very “valley” understated but certainly appealing and with entrees priced from $18.50-$28.00, it will not put a dent in your purse.
Max (open 7 days for dinner)
Max Restaurant
13355 Ventura Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-784-2915


When you have a craving for Mexican Food (and who doesn’t love those fat free, no carb chips and salsa?), not far down the road, you’ll find “Senor Fred”. Although most of the Mexican restaurants we’ve sampled on Ventura Boulevard leave your Pappi running for the border, there’s a reason why Senor Fred separates itself from the pack: it is also happens to be owned by the folks who own, Max. We have had two very pleasurable experiences there and one disappointing experience, with our 14-year-old godson, who was a good sport about his food never arriving, (but he filled up on perfect salsa and chips so he grinned and bore it). The Conchita Pabil, pork marinated in Banana leaves immediately brought Michael back to the years I spent in the Caribbean as a young boy; it is not to be missed. And for our women readers, the waitress, Cher, is such a hot tamale, she almost turned us around (emphasis on “almost”)! Most entrees are priced between $10.95 and $21.95.
Senor Fred (open 7 days for lunch & dinner)
13730 Ventura Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-789-3200

If you want a totally unique food experience, try one of our favorites, “Yoshi’s Shabu Shabu”, If you’re not familiar with Shabu Shabu, It’s a Japanese eatery where you cook your own food right at your seat by dipping pieces of pork, prime beef or chicken into a pot of steaming hot water. They start you off with two little salads of cucumbers and spinach, each with just the right exotic spices. We’re getting hungry just writing about the experience! Keep in mind, the atmosphere is so downscale and devoid of style, that this in and of itself is part of the charm—along with blaring florescent overhead lighting that makes every gay man run for cover. The attentive service from the owners and the staff more than compensates for the accentuated lines one might notice on your neighbor’s face. The price of dinner for two (approximately $50) is so cheap you’ll almost forget you’re cooking your own food.
Yoshi's Shabu Shabu Restaurant (open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday)
13573 Ventura Boulevard
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
818-995-1660

“Albano’s Brooklyn Pizzeria” is neighborhood “run on in” kind of place that always delights our culinary senses. The style is “Brooklyn”, with red booths, simple tables and lots of pictures of mobsters and local celebrities (not mutually exclusive). The menu includes their homemade pastas (all of which are a attributed to “Mama Albano” by the owners, mama’s two handsome (and hunky sons) and extraordinary thin-crusted pizza. Most times, you might even find the boys themselves cooking in the kitchen. The storefront is spotless and offers indoor and outdoor dining (although outdoors offers a view of a parking lot facing Venture Blvd.). Be sure and check out Frankie, an adorable Italian boy from Eastchester, NY who knows what service is all about. We think he’s as straight as they come, but that doesn’t make his smile any less welcoming. We have been there many times and have never been disappointed. Dinner for two will run you approximately $30, unless a local “wise guy” wants additional “protection money”. Albano’s also has a more up-scale location on Melrose.

Albano's Brooklyn Pizzeria (open lunch & dinner 7 days)
12229 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
818-760-8180
Albano's Brooklyn Pizzeria (open lunch & dinner 7 days)
7261 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, Ca.
323-934-2494



If you are a sushi eater, no doubt, you have heard the acclaim of “Sushi Nozawa”, infamously coined as the “Sushi Nazi”, after Seinfeld’s Soup Nazi, because the owner/chef is fond of yelling at you if he doesn’t like your order. Despite his ornery attitude, this is about as good as it gets as long as you ask for Chef’s special, $50-$75, plenty to satisfy the most die hard sushi fanatic. But remember, don’t ask for any substitutions or a California Roll, if you do, you will suffer the same fate as Nicolette Sheridan (which she recounted on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno), and be thrown out on your ears. It is worth putting up with as it has one of highest ratings in the Zagat Guide, as well as in the Michael and Scott Guide, and is worth the downside.
Sushi Nozawa open for lunch & dinner Monday-Friday
11288 Ventura Boulevard Suite C
Studio City, CA 91604
818-508-7017

SNAPSHOT: It may be slim pickings, but from Sushi to Pizza, folks are getting their passports and shots and venturing into “The Valley” for some mighty good eats.

The Republic of Vegas

Wow! Vegas has arrived, right here in West Hollywood. Don’t bother with the six-hour drive when all you have to pay is the $7 parking fee to feel as if you’ve been transported right onto the swankiest part of the strip!

REPUBLIC
650 N. La Cienega Blvd.
Cuisine: Vegas-style anything goes
The Scene: Fabulous, Chic and Elegant
Must Try: Lobster Corn Dogs
Star Rating: 3.5 of 4
Average Cost: $23-42 entrees

Republic is very democratic; free thinking and independent from the main stream; what a total knock out to experience. From the moment you arrive, a handsome and courteous (no attitude at this place, thank god) gent opens the door for you as a rain-shower waterfall drops from the ceiling behind him, immediately telling you you’re in for an event. Interior designer Margaret O’Brien appoints the foyer with deceivingly soft creamy couches next to a handsome bar, and one side of the room is dressed with red-beaded wallpaper that screams to be fondled (as do some of the wait-staff). Soon after checking in with the hostess, you are whisked into the jaw-dropping main dining room that is an explosion of excitement. It’s an enormous space, yet manages to feel cozy due to the four gi-normous chandeliers that are composed of long strands of string dropping half way down the height of the room. They’re all centered around a bizarrely incongruent grouping of animal antlers that center the room and remind you of the whimsical nature of dining out.

We were seated at an impeccably set table, adorned by a napkin rolled and tied with a sweet ribbon claiming it belonged to Republic. The cutlery was unique without being unusable, and as Michael viewed the action in this stunning room, Scott took in the abalone-textured walls that surrounded various Eric Orr-like water fountains sensuously dripping from the ceiling (which, admittedly, made him want to run to the bathroom on several occasions). Dramatic fireplaces with floor to ceiling chains warm the surroundings. Centered on one wall is a two story glass wine room (think Oriole in Vegas) that has been taken one step further by having a hot looking “angel” flying up and down for bottles, complete with a set of wings.

And the food is pretty fabulous too. Before you start, Executive Chef Gabriel Morales and Chef de Cuisine Mark Mittleman (both formerly from the Beverly Hills Hotel) serve up hot, homemade biscuits with whipped honey butter, as well as sweet jalapeño bread, both of which come piping hot to your table. Scott was working a glass of Snowden Lost Vineyard Napa 2002 Cabernet ($14) and was more than happy to make this his entire meal. That said, we both started with the Maine Lobster Corn Dogs that we couldn’t help but dunk into the accompanying sweet and hot mustard. It brought us back to summer days of corn dogs on the boardwalk, but this time for $21; don’t miss this grown-up taste treat (and speaking of treats, get either chiseled Adam or young Travis to run the food to you). Also devilishly tasty was the Mini Monte Cristo appetizer ($12) that came with strawberry rhubarb preserves and sweet potato fries. The fries were uneventful, but the Monte Cristo was light and scrumptious, and an extravagance for dinner. We enjoyed all the salads we tried, but particularly liked the Heirloom tomato salad with Texas Fry bread ($14).

The “Back Yard BBQ Style” Tasting Pork was our favorite entrée ($30), which offered a selection of pork belly pulled pork, pork loin and “six hour” baked beans; the latter sounded like something Michael’s mother may have made by mistake, if only she knew how to cook, but actually tasted pretty back-yard good. The pulled pork section was a taste selection that made us both happy we didn’t keep Kosher. The Colorado Lamb Rack ($34) was pretty average for a place this spectacular, and although it was a healthy portion, part of it came undercooked. The New England Lobster Bake came prepared with seaweed, corn clam chowder and Tabasco butter, making it a very interesting dish and worthy of it the daily market price ($55 when we ate it). Do accompany your food with some their interesting sides, such as Truffle-scented French fries, or their “world-famous” (at least so far in the world according to Republic) smoked cheddar mac n’ cheese—it will definitely knock your socks off.

The deserts are yummy, but basic. The Strawberry shortcake ($12) with honey and pine-applesauce is worthy of loosening your belts, while the Bourbon Glazed Doughnuts ($10) served with dipping sauces of liquid chocolate, sprinkles and almonds is worth loosening your pants. The chocolate soufflé with a dark chocolate truffle swirled inside the steaming hot pot of yet more chocolate, is worth tasting. The tea selection is elegantly served in Asian-style crockery, making the array of unusual teas taste even better.

The service provided to us on each occasion was warm and friendly, and although one of the runners did ask us “who got the lamb” (The Dining Duo’s personal pet peeve #1), they more than made up for it by swift and promptly cleaning up the nasty little mess Michael made when he catapulted his entire glass of champagne onto the table and Scott’s lap. And the glass was immediately replaced, no charge. Nice move Kyle Rodri (short for Rodriguez), the muy guapo waiter that hovered over our table with aplomb. Michelle, who waited on us previously at The Nook, also provided honest and great service.

After a tremendous meal, we inspected the rest of Republic and what it had to offer. The venue is massive and offers a variety of venues. Upstairs is a bar area where you can order up bottles of bubbly and take in the scene below. At 10pm the Disc Jockey spins unobtrusive music that fills the air above and below. The environment is cozy and welcoming, and the dramatically lit bar is an elegant backdrop. Around the corner is a “unisex” bathroom with mutual sinks that service both sexes, giving everyone a chance to democratically wash their hands together. Around that corner is a private room of extraordinary design. Coated in real Crocodile wall coverings that scream lavishness of unparalleled expense, the tables are set low for socializing and the bar is a focal point. A room with glass ceilings allows you view the moon, while at the end of the space a “fake” moon stares back at you with eerie reality. Yet another room (make sure to ask for table #302 which has a direct view into the dining room) offers up private cabanas where you can close the curtains and privately leaf through the back pages of Frontiers for the after party. There is a giant “ballroom” for special events, and a café on Melrose Place they call “Prana” that offers up it’s own special breakfast and lunch specialties.

Bottom line: you don’t have to be a Republican to have a great experience at Republic!

THE QUEST FOR THE PERFECT BURGER!

A great deal has been written lately about the “perfect hamburger”; from GQ to Sunset Magazine, everyone is getting into the act. Michael has been a burger aficionado since he was a child, so he’ll be dishing the red-meat fare; Scott, on the other hand, doesn’t eat red meat, so he’ll pipe in with some tasty alternatives.

Los Angeles has a plethora of burgers, some good, many tired; we’re highlighting a few of the great ones. You’d be amazed that some of them are in your own backyard, without having to go to your grill.

Our favorite hang out is “Father’s Office” in Santa Monica, which offers the most unusual burger in Los Angeles, stuffed with cheese, arugula and caramelized onion toppings. Please don’t ask for ketchup, because it will NOT be provided under any circumstances. It is a bar, so if your tricks are under 21, leave them home. Every day is Christmas when the beautiful barkeeper, “Christmas” (no, her birthday is not December 25) serves up what we deem to be the burger closest to perfection. For those who don’t eat meat, there are sensational salads (we just tasted their Frisse Salad with poached eggs and hot bacon bites, a stand out), lamb skewers to die for, sweet potato fries with garlic aoli sauce, that are the best we’ve tasted, and a cheese platter dripping with honey. If you’re going on the weekend and you want one of the few tables in this small and cozy neighborhood bar, get there at 3:00PM sharp when they open. Don’t miss their extensive beer selection and wine, by the glass.

Lagging just behind the “Mother of all Burgers” are “Hedley’s”, a hand made juicy classic burger stuffed with onions and herbs, perfectly prepared to your liking, “The Apple Pan” known for their hickory burger and amazing red relish, and “Cassell’s”, well respected for their Colorado beef ground fresh every morning, their fifty years on the block and they boast the best potato salad and fresh lemonade in Los Angeles. Having consumed hundreds of burgers at Cassell’s, I can say there was only one time the burger was not delivered at the optimum medium rare I ordered.

A new kid on the block, definitely worthy of consideration, is “The Counter” also in Santa Monica; a rising star, beautiful spotless atmosphere, nice wine selection, by the glass or bottle, and burgers available in hundreds of different combinations, (even with peanut sauce, one of our unusual favorites) which have been prepared flawlessly, on each occasion. We have now visited there ten times and each time is a delight, be sure and say hi to Jeff, the handsome owner and Julian at the register, who is adorable; he’s not one of us BUT his identical twin brother is. It was voted the second best milk shake in the country by GQ. Their Turkey and Salmon burgers are yummy, and don’t forget to try their Cheddar fries.

Doug Arrango’s in West Hollywood has “Burger Night” on Mondays. In a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, you receive a platter of three different mini-sliders, the night we were there they offered: Beef, veal and duck. The Beef slider is right up there with the competition, although the duck slider was dry and uneventful, and deserved a pass. That said, their extensive wine list always moistens up any meal. Their homemade buns and ketchup are superb.

For fast food burgers, In-n-Out is certainly top notch with Fatburger just a hair behind. Red Robin is also not to be missed, so disgustingly good you’ll need a nap afterwards. The burgers are tasty, there are chicken and turkey alternatives that are top-notch, the shakes divine, and the bottomless French fries are excellent and the onion rings are best you’ll find nation-wide!

If you’re in Palm Springs, go see the gorgeous Diane at her restaurant, “Tyler’s”, for perfect burgers (with perfectly fabulous buns), sliders and the most wonderful cole slaw we have ever tasted. If you wondered where Sharon Gless from “Queer As Folk” went after the close of the show, look no further—she’ll be serving you as Tammy, who can’t begin to count the number of times she has been compared to Debbie! The chocolate shake is creamy, and for the non-meat eaters, their veggie burger is the best one on the market, state wide.

SNAP SHOT: Turn off the grill, drop the apron, grab your partner and forget about carbs and calories: it’s time for a burger and a shake! Visit Father’s Office for the burger and The Counter for the shake.

Cassell’s open for lunch 11-3, Monday to Saturday
Cassell's Hamburgers
3266 West 6th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90020
213-480-8668

Father's Office open for dinner Monday-Friday 5-2 AM (kitchen closes between 10-11) Saturday & Sunday 3PM-2AM (kitchen closes at 11)
1018 Montana Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90403
www.Fathersoffice.Com
310-393-2337

Counter Open 7 days Mon-Thurs 11AM-10PM , Fri-Sat 11-11, Sunday 12-9 PM
2901 Ocean Park Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-399-8383
www.thecounterburger.com

Doug Arrango’s (Closed Sunday) open for lunch & dinner, Monday burger night
Doug Arango's Restaurant
8826 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-278-3684
www.dougarrangos.com
Tyler's Burgers (closed Sunday & Monday) Tues-Sat Lunch 11-4
149 South Indian Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760-325-2990
Red Robin, In n Out and Fatburger various locations, throughout the southland.

Thai One On!

The Orchid
119 Broadway
Santa Monica, Ca. 90402
310 395 6037

Cuisine: Traditional Thai
The Scene: Storefront Chic
Must Try: Chaink Kai-Thai Mixed Drink
Star Rating: 3 of 4
Average Cost: $19-$27 Entrees


Sawadee Kap…Hello Santa Monica! One does not expect much from the restaurants surrounding the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica (except for, maybe, Jiraffe) but every now and then there’s a little gem. Michael was on the treadmill one day at the gym and met strikingly beautiful Toy from Thailand who told him that she had opened a chic new spot that offered the unusual combination of true Thai food and a pleasant ambience just off the hustle and bustle of the promenade. On our multiple visits, we had to agree and found the staff warm and charming, especially the good-looking host James and the handsome bartender Eric.

Toy worked for her brother in Bangkok creating a high-end restaurant, and imported the recipes and acumen to L.A. She had the wisdom to hire Eric--who also spent a few years working in the Bangkok bar scene--to designed the extensive exciting and extravagant bar menu; there is an active happy hour from 5 PM- 7 PM,, Monday-Friday, which is just perfect to “Thai one on”. Whether you sit at the bar or at a table in this simply lavender appointed storefront space, don’t miss out on our favorite drink, Chaing Kai-Thai, delivered flaming (unlike Eric but perhaps like some of the patrons), it is a perfect combination of Parrot Bay Mango & Pineapple, lime and 151 rum. The TKO was also yum as it packed a smart Muay Thai punch with Captain Morgan Spiced rum, shaved fresh ginger, lemon ginger, ginko-biloba, ginseng and royal jelly. All the drinks were served at a refreshing $10 each.

Don’t think that because the drinks excel, that the food is secondary. You will definitely notice Thai patrons (always a great sign) and everything we tasted was more mouth-watering than the next. The Tom Kah Gai, a Thai staple composed of spicy lemongrass-lime, galangal soup with coconut milk and plenty of chicken, is something we always order and at $7.00, we can’t say we have ever tasted one better prepared, exacting the correct amount of spices, chicken and coconut milk.

The Pineapple fried rice with a yellow curry flavor mixed with sweet Chinese sausage is surprisingly light and scrumptious and is available with Chicken at $12.00 or Shrimp at $16.00. A Thai meal wouldn’t be complete without noodles, and the Pad-Thai Noodles with rock shrimp offered up some of the best we’ve tasted. These pan-fried rice noodles are blended with tofu, bean sprouts, onions, egg and peanuts and is a Thai dish made to perfection. An unexpected surprise and one of the more expensive items on the menu is the seared Black Cod with sweet fresh mango at $22.00. James recommended it and we were thrilled he did. It isn’t something to order if you’re very hungry as the portions on this dish are conservative, but coupled with sautéed spinach it is one of the most healthy items on the menu and just wonderful to boot.

After dinner, walk around the corner and take a stroll on the 3rd street promenade; stop by our favorite jewelry store extraordinaire, Rafinity (where we purchased one of our wedding rings) and say hi to the muscle-shredded Rafi and his beautiful hottie Ann. Back outside and over the din of the undulating nightlife, if you close your eyes, you may just think you’re on Patpong Road in Bangkok where all you have to do is imagine the possibilities.

"PLAY IT AGAIN, SAM"

Sam's By The Beach
108 W. Channel Road
Santa Monica, CA 90402
310-230-9100

“Sam’s By The Beach” is one of our longtime favorite places to go when you come home from work and just want to kick back and have a great meal. Since we moved from living at the beach in Santa Monica, it has been quite some time since we’ve revisited our old haunt, and we found it to be even better than we had remembered!

Once known as “The Canyon Bistro” in its previous life, this cozy neighborhood eatery opened about eight years ago; when the proprietor, Samer (“Sam”) Elias gave it a face life, he renamed it, “ Sam’s”. When we lived in the neighborhood, there were a variety of choices up and down the street; this warm and unpretentious venue quickly became our “commissary”. After our most recent meals, we remember with great affection why we loved coming here. Just driving up to the valet, one is immediately soothed by the sea scented ocean air.

Upon entering the restaurant, we were warmly welcomed back by the unmistakably handsome and charming Sam, as if we were returning to an old friend’s home after a much-noted absence. Michael was rushed a perfectly spiced Bloody Mary (his usual), and we snuggled into our favorite faux animal skin booth. A quick glance around the room fills your senses with the feeling that this place has been around for more than five minutes (which is usually not the case in L.A.). The room is warm and inviting, as if in a European café with snow coming down outside. The distressed and highly shined old wood floors are surrounded by foiled walls, mirrors draped with miles of thick fabric, myriad fluffy pillows, and candles and exotic Middle Eastern lanterns casting playful shadows around the room.

With a full bar to choose from, Scott settled in on a petite Syrah from 4 Vine Vineyards ($38 a bottle) and we started with Sam’s Trio, a sampler dish of Hummus, Taboule and Babaganouch, served with pita bread. Is “divine” to strong of a word? A previous visit solidified our pick for another starter, the Blue “fin” tartar, which is a conglomeration of fresh ahi Tuna mixed with parsley, homemade chili paste, olive oil and a “secret ingredient” Don’t bother asking Sam about that secret ingredient, as it comes from his childhood in Syria.

And don’t fill up on starters, as the rest of the menu is equally as intriguing. Sam personally goes each morning to the downtown markets, skillfully choosing only the finest ingredients for his fare. The Grilled New York Steak with a Roquefort and wine sauce with hand cut Kennebunk French fried potatoes is exceptional. All the dishes are cooked with an Eastern Mediterranean emphasis, making his signature dish, the Australian lamb, beyond taste description. Braised for six hours with vegetables and exotic herbs, it is served with watercress and French fries. Another lamb dish was cooked in a Dijon mustard seed sauce and was served with golden beats and carrot soufflé. Simply Delicious.

Don’t forget to save room to end your meal with Sam’s Chocolate mouse, which always seems to trump the competition. The hazelnut chocolate bread pudding is equally scrumptious, and the Bird Nest (shredded phyllo dough topped with milk custard and pistachio in a rose water syrup) is one of the most unique finale’s we’ve tasted. If you twist his arm (not very hard) he’ll make you white peaches simmered in white wine, served with homemade pistachio gelato. And make sure to ask for the “off the menu” chamomile tea….a concoction of brewed rose buds and handpicked chamomile flowers direct from his grandmother’s farm in Cyprus.

The service is always wonderful and personalized. Sam is so accommodating that if you live nearby he will offer extraordinary take out service including china (on loan, of course). Prices for entrees range from 18.95-24.95 and they are open every night except Monday. Every other month on Thursday’s a wine paired dinner is presented. This comfy and unique locale accommodates private parties of 30 to 70 folks. The private patio in the back accommodates small intimate wine dinners in the evenings, and kids menus and pizzas on Sundays.

Risotto and a Lot More

Risotto
12650 Ventura Bl
Studio City 91604
818 761 7600
11AM-10 PM, Sunday 5-10 PM



The Scene: Attractive neighborhood spot
Cuisine: Family Italian with a nouveau edge
Must Try: Any of the Risottos, of course
Star Rating: 2.50
Average Cost: Entrees $11 to $22



We go either way. That is, one of the best parts about living off Mulholland Drive is that we can go to the Valley or to the City to dine. A new addition to the Studio City Restaurant scene offers a reason to head to the valley. Risotto, owned and hosted by the affable and handsome Claudio Barbagiovanni (now that’s authentic Italian), replaces one of our old haunts, Spumoni, which we had frequented over one hundred times until we realized we had never been offered a complimentary anything. As our readers know by now, the Dining Duo insists on paying the bill before reviewing a restaurant, but one of our pet peeves is when a restaurateur does not reward you, the consistent customer, with a drink or desert from time to time.

The reincarnation is better than its predecessor in so many ways. Risotto sports a much needed face lift that now makes it a spotless and charming Italian bistro, boasting a gorgeous open stainless kitchen and homemade specialties from Claudio’s family. He was also a caterer for twenty plus years, and calls on that expertise to serve delightful homemade Italian dishes.

Make certain to start your meal with a soup of the day. We particularly enjoyed the Butternut Squash ($5) that was served piping hot and flavorful, yet without overbearing flavors. Claudio’s Caprese salad comprised of fresh vine-ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, home grown basil and virgin olive oil is quite reasonably priced at $7.50.

With a name like “Risotto”, that dish is the forte here and should not be passed up. Our favorite is actually the healthiest alternative on the menu, The Farfalle con Pollo, perfectly seasoned bow tie pasta with grilled chicken, sun dried tomatoes and fresh asparagus in a light tomato sauce, with the just the right amount of garlic and a bargain at $14. Also of note is the home made Capellini loaded with crabmeat, which one can order with a red or white sauce at $18. Michael enjoyed their Veal Picatta (Scott can’t stand killing those poor little lambs), seasoned with lemon and capers and served over Risotto Primavera ($20.50).

Don’t leave Risotto with out trying the homemade Ricotta Cheese Cake accompanied with fresh berries ($6), although one of the Dining Duo particularly liked the size of the cannoli; he shall remain anonymous.

It’s nice to come back to the neighborhood and be treated like family.

POWER LUNCHES: THE UNEXPECTED

Three of our favorite spots for lunch in Los Angeles turn out to be the hidden spots of the rich and famous, those who do not have to be seen, but are semi visible nonetheless.

Kinara Café hidden behind one of the smartest health spas in Los Angeles, owned by Christine and Joachim Splichal of Patina fame, is one of the most inviting spots to dine on a perfect Los Angeles day. The interior is the perfect blend of East Indian, Balinese and French cultures. A tranquil garden beckons you to a leisurely dining experience overseen by John, one of the best built, most handsome and endearing servers in Los Angeles. That being said, his exemplary service does not disguise the mouth watering healthy concoctions prepared for you. Our favorites continue to be their rotating soups (especially love the Tomato), Steak Salad, Tuna Salad, their tasty Wild Salmon and their perfectly spiced Turkey Meat loaf (one of our all time favorites) with air dried French fries, all made to order and priced reasonably between $8 and $17 When it is in season, the pomegranate juice is a must. There is always a selection of fresh juices, squeezed to order. If you’re nice to John, he may let you squeeze him, as well. We also enjoy the salads in Pita bread. You may notice their celebrity regulars, Halle Berry, Robert Duvall and Diana Ross, quietly enjoying their relative anonymity.

Petrossian on Robertson, a Paris landmark, which dates back to 1920’s when it was founded by the two Petrossian brothers. It was always thought of as just a Caviateria, and since only Michael adores caviar, it turns out fortunately for Scott, there is much, much more than that. In fact, much to Scott’s surprise, it’s simple décor belies the fact that one of the biggest bargains in town, is their Crab Salad, overflowing with fresh crab and spiced with an avocado citrus dressing, at $10.50. Due to the caviar embargo, Michael feasted on three different varieties of farm -raised caviars, 15 grams of Sevruga, Ossetra and Beluga, for $138, pricey but well worth it, and excellent. The fresh baked blinis by executive chef, Claudia Sanchez, are superb and be sure to ask for extra because you will devour them. In Michael’s mind, there is almost nothing that compares to caviar with all the fixings including cream fraiche, capers, onions, egg whites. We saw Leonardo DiCaprio, well disguised, while we were there; Penelope Cruz is also a regular.



The latest addition to the LA restaurant scene is, a New York standard, City Bakery, owned by Maury Rubin, the quintessential New York deli owner, but, actually, he hails originally from Baltimore. It is under the careful control of chef Ilene Rosen. City Bakery offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. We particularly enjoy the fact that their sumptuous breakfast is available until 8PM but more about that in “power breakfast”, to come. Their luncheon buffet, attended by our very own governor, Arnold and his wife, Maria, Gwyneth Paltrow and Tom Hanks is a small miracle, at $16 per pound, one can eat to their hearts content (and still for less than $16) and enjoy a variety of specialties including Wasabi Crusted Chicken, Michael’s favorite and Fresh WILD Salmon, like Kinara, a major attribute, which is the only politically correct salmon according to Scott. Their baked goods are made fresh hourly and the pretzel croissant is not to be missed. We recently feasted on their decadent Carmelized French Toast, which is extraordinary. Try the fried chicken, which we adored, and remember there are many different items available, freshly prepared, on different days and finish with one of the best cups of espresso in Los Angeles. You will regret not taking pastries and cookies home, so make sure that you do and don’t leave before stopping into their special “all chocolate” room that’s like stepping into a secret booth for chocolate junkies.

City Bakery is brand new, only open for two months. They change their menu all the time, so be prepared to expect the unexpected!

Kinara Spa
656 N Robertson Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 657-9188
(310) 657-9184 (Fax)

Petrossian
321 N Robertson Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90048-2415
(310) 271-6300


City Bakery
(310) 656-3040
225 26th St
Santa Monica, CA 90402

COMING HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The Beverly Hills Hotel Polo Lounge
9641 Sunset Boulevard
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310-276-2251

The Scene: Beverly Hills chic and more chic
Cuisine: Traditional and Updated Nouvelle
Must-try: Tasting Menu
Star rating: 3.75 out of 4
Average cost: Entrées range from $28 - $45

In a city where restaurants come and go as fast as we change our Calvins, it’s heart warming to come home to the Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Built in 1912, this Grande Dame at the pulsing heart of L.A. has never really changed; but thankfully the food creations most definitely have. You don’t need a special occasion to visit the Polo Lounge, but a special occasion like Thanksgiving is a perfect reason to go.

Just beyond a booming bar scene of Hollywood wannabes, producers, and hotel guests, lies the intimate dining room bathed in green and white stripes. Six tablecloth-laden booths affords beautiful views of the tree-studded patio. Sounds of live music waft throughout the room, as the din of laughter creates a festive party scene that immediately put The Dining Duo in a festive mood.

Executive chef Robert Allen (of Four Seasons Chicago & Ritz in Paris fame) came to the Beverly Hills Hotel and knocked its mediocre menu on its butt. The worlds’ great restaurants are run by chefs, primarily the vision of one person. When Mr. Allen started in July of 2005, and later became the Food and Beverage Director as well, he set a precedent at this hotel for having the wherewithal to exercise his greatness and bring devastatingly delightful creations directly to our table; along with the help of our handsome and built (and gay) hockey-playing waiter, Douglas, who hovered with unrelenting attention.

Master Chef Allen has created a tasting menu extraordinaire that changes every Tuesday, displaying the city’s best produce. The menu is changed with seasonality of the ingredients, constantly evolving into a new tasting menu including both classic Beverly Hills Polo Lounge fare, such as the tortilla soup ($12), and the McCarthy salad ($23). Amongst so many highlights is the wild Norwegian “balik” salmon, line-caught, sent to Switzerland to be smoked and cured, then the mouth-watering delicacy is flown to your plate. ($24). Don’t miss the two fall-inspired appetizers: Ox-tail tortelloni; and pumpkin soup and foie gras crème fraiche, a combination of spiced pumpkin soup, cranberries, and a delectable morsel of foie gras ($23).

The cumin-roasted Colorado lamb loin, consisting of stewed, fresh black-eyed peas and heirloom tomatoes, curried cauliflower, and minted lamb jus, was mouth-watering ($39); pair it with a Cabernet Sauvignon Joseph Phelps 2003, ($21.75 a glass). Chef prepares the braised European sea bass ($39) with clam and artichoke barigoule and garnished with a plum tomato confit and a sweet lemon preserve. The tasting menu affords a novel variety of creations for $85 a person, and for $40, all five courses are paired with truly fabulous wines.

The Polo Lounge has an exciting Thanksgiving menu from 11:00 in the morning to 10:00 at night. A fixed $85 lets you start with a choice of the chicken tortilla soup or their traditional lobster bisque, followed by several wonderful choices, including Dungeness crab cake, sliced duck prosciutto, or an organic baby beet salad. Served all day is their McCarthy salad and rack of pork with crackling, roasted Tom turkey, which includes chestnut and brioche stuffing, buttermilk-whipped potatoes, glazed yams, buttered carrots, giblet gravy, and cranberry marmalade. The desserts at the Polo Lounge are all superb, and at Thanksgiving they offer the classic pumpkin pie with ginger-infused crème Chantilly.

Not So Simple "Simon"

Simon
8555 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles CA 90048
310. 358-3979



The Scene: Brand new, hip and happening.
Cuisine: Meat & Potatoes, with a cotton candy edge.
Must Try: Tuna Dynamite
Star Rating: 3 of 4
Average Cost: $22-$38 for Entrees


What happens when you take the Mondrian Hotel scene, mix it with the Abbey, sprinkle in some Asia de Cuba, and shake it all up? You get Simon LA. With seating for 175 inside and on the outside chic terrace, this monochromatic restaurant filled with booths backed by cut wood which reflects like a thousand trees has raced out of the gate as LA’s newest, hip place to see and be seen.
Under the impeccable management of long-time restaurateur Douglas Wickard (Maple Drive and Vibrato), Chef Kerry Simon creates his edible magic in a clean, open kitchen. The interesting and tasty menu offers earlier evening and late night culinary possibilities that delight the senses.
Most of the appetizers dazzled our taste buds. The Blue fin tuna tartar prepared in lemongrass oil with ginger rice crisps was a standout at $16. Grilled gazpacho made from summer vegetables and avocado ($10) was one of Michael’s favorites. We loved the colossal crab cake accompanied by young papaya Asian slaw for $16, although friends at the table thought that the uniformity and crispiness of the cake somehow detracted from the presentation; nonetheless we downed every last morsel.
Don't fill up on the fabulous wood-roasted pizzas, as the entrees are also delectable. The tandoori wild Pacific salmon was prepared with a black bean salad and mango and measured up as one of the tastier wild salmon dishes ($28). The prime meats are Chef Simon’s specialties, and we had to agree. Of particular note was the lamb porterhouse ($38), which was tender, juicy, and seasoned just right. Michael loved the ziti with herb pesto, ricotta salata and tomatoes ($19), while we both managed to down the horribly fattening, yet terrifically delicious buttermilk onion rings. All of this was washed with an exceptional 2002 bottle of Blue Rock’s Syrah from Alexander Valley that was smoky and sensational ($63).
We had already thrown abs to the wind by devouring the delicious breadbasket, so we decided to go for the desserts, many of which are fun and a throwback to our childhood, like a giant cotton candy, cherry pie, cookies and milk, and our particular favorite, Simon’s junk food sampler (all dessert items are $8, except for the junk food sampler, which is $25).
The crowd gay and straight, and skews younger on the weekends. We didn’t care about the crowd as long as we got our grilled donuts and hot chocolate. Our recommendation is to come quick before everyone in LA catches on.

A LITTLE NOOKIE AT “THE NOOK”

The Nook
11628 Santa Monica Blvd., West Los Angeles
310-207-5160

Sister restaurant
Bergamont Café
2525 Michigan Avenue
Santa Monica, Ca. 90404
310 828 4001

Everyone these days seem to have a great restaurant to share with The Dining Duo. When our new friend Susanne who is an international “foodie” told us her favorite restaurant in all of Los Angeles is probably THE NOOK, we just had to go. We packed our bags for a field trip west of the 405 freeway and met there for an early dinner on a Saturday evening. It was lucky we arrived at 6 PM because by 7 PM because there was already a line out the door.

Tucked into a corner of a nondescript strip mall in West Los Angeles, just east of Barrington, is a small storefront of no consequence from the outside; but inside we discovered a clean, modern look with a slight Asian sensibility. With only a few booths, several tables and a long, festival-seating elevated table at the restaurant’s center, we feasted on new traditional California comfort food, which Michael adores and Scott eats hesitantly due to his slightly expanding waistline. No matter, everyone knows that size 34 is the new 31.

The host and co owner Brian Frith-Smith, is always warm and welcoming, and quite a looker too. The three partners, Brian, Jeff Stupler and chef James Richardson also are the proprietors of The Bergamont Café, at Bergamont station, which offers a similar genre of food (and is a superb lunch spot while shopping for art).

The Nook’s dinner selections offer up a Grilled Skirt Steak, which arrived perfectly prepared at the requested medium rare. Life would not be complete without a side of their scrumptious Macaroni and Cheese, which was cooked with three different cheeses (parmesan, cheddar and gruyere) and is definitely not your Mom’s old Mac & Cheese (not that Michael’s Mom even knew where the kitchen was located). You’ve heard us use superlatives before, but this dish was truly the best Mac and Cheese we have ever tasted, (we loved Vibrato’s too, but this is even better) and remains one of the menu items which keeps bringing us back for more. During lunch, this is served with a delicious Caesar salad as an entrée for a very reasonable $9.

As we have said before, Michael is the burger aficionado and the Nook’s Sterling silver beef burger at $12 is accompanied by crispy slim fries, and if you like, even a homemade pickle that puckers just the right amount of sour. It would have made our top five list if we had tasted it prior to that review. A burger is so simple but requires a great deal of thought to prepare exceptionally and the Nook has it down pat(ty). Our pet peeve is when your hunk of meat (either the one on your plate or the one sitting across the table from you) arrives undercooked or overcooked. Michael demands his meat medium rare and on every visit, this burger with Gruyere cheese and fried onions was delivered perfectly. Scott demands his hunk of meat with big muscles and a tank top, but that wasn’t on this menu. Our best friend, “Kurt the Cyberguy”, asked for his burger medium well, and as if by magic, it was done just right.

Don’t overlook the desserts, particularly the Chocolate Pot de Crème with strawberries at $6; Scott the consummate chocoholic was in paradise as he moaned with pleasure over this densely chocolate finale. All this great food and moaning makes for a perfect recipe for a little after dinner nookie at the nook, and keeps us going back, for lunch or dinner, time after time.

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK

Bin 8945
8945 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 550-8945

The Scene: New and groovy, and right in the thick of things.
Cuisine: Caribbean meets North Africa, along with a glass of wine.
Must Try: Heath Bar Brownie a la Mode
Star Rating: 3 of 4
Average Cost: $26-$29 for “smallish” Entrees


There’s something new, something different, and something simply elegant on the Boulevard…and it’s not “Mamma” in a new Chanel outfit; it’s a magnificent redo of the old Greenery. Interior designed by Wade Robinson of Silver Lake, the cement floors and used brick main wall accent an elegant, glass-encased wine rack displaying 1,200 bottles of delicious varietals begging to be tasted. Comfortable seats indoors are perfect for friends, although may be a bit too communal for an intimate first date. A simple and elegant shelf traverses the brick wall, carrying on it a myriad of different-shaped glass decanters, all of which bespeak wine and informality. A bar crosses the other side of the small, but well-planned room (the owner, adorable and fit David Haskell, designed the working spaces of the restaurant). The outdoor patio is perfect for summer nights, with seating of up to twenty folks, but unfortunately too intimate enough to accommodate parties in excess of six. Although the patio chairs are pretty to look at, be prepared to overcome comfort for the appetizing selection of food treats and the unlimited selection of West Hollywood flora and fauna parading past your table.

You won’t see tablecloths at this restaurant because David, perpetually in his T-shirt, jeans and Panerai, has created a restaurant that screams “no pretense.” Although all the cloth napkins are ironed on the premises and impeccably folded, the paper placemats and napkins all carry a logo of a red wineglass stain, which is meant to signify that “wine is just wine” so don’t get carried away with it. We were, in fact, carried away with the extensive selection, ranging to the most expensive wine at $500 a bottle, an ’85 Domaine Comte de George de Vogue, but still well priced, with the cheapest bottle of wine going for $32, the Chateau Fontalem. The “Bin” offers at least a hundred wines for $50 or less per bottle, and there is a tremendously delicious selection of wine by the glass at $8 per glass; we especially enjoyed a Greek selection (love those Greeks), Cheateau Clauss from Petroto at only $8. On the various times we visited the restaurant, we enjoyed a new selection each and every time; just tell David your desired taste and he will facilitate it. He was right on each time with us.

Our first visit to the restaurant was during their second week of operation, and the service was friendly, but not quite yet in place. Our follow-up visits show that David Haskell is on track, and the service was friendly, efficient, and refreshing. Again, on the first visit, unfortunately the servers brought food to the table, putting it on all the wrong destinations, a big “no-no” for the Dining Duo when paying the healthy price tab that the “Bin” commands. But more about the check later.

All of our food selections proved to be superb, delivered on beautiful plates, interesting cutlery, and presenting the fluids in delicately sculpted glasses (we particularly enjoy the water glass, which seemed to have come from a more elegant table setting). The creative food is divided into small, slightly larger and even larger plates. Having tasted most things on the menu, we highly recommend the Bin 8945 salad at $12 with very fresh greens, spectacular blue cheese, candied nuts and one of Michael's favorites, heirloom apples. The meat empanadas at $9 are tasty and we found the decadent Gorgonzola fritters, loaded with cheese and calories, sensational at $10.

In the larger plates, the chef, Matt Carpenter's Jerk Chicken, although pricey at $27 was exquisitely prepared, with just enough spice, served tender and moist. Our friend James savored the Steak which was marinated in Belgian beer with perfect "duck fat" fries, exactly as ordered medium rare at $29. Leave room for a must-have Heath Bar Brownie topped with heath bar crunch ice cream that was amongst the best brownies we have enjoyed in a long time.

Although the portions were too small for our tastes and dinner will probably set you back at a pricey $50-$70 a person, it’s about time that we see an upscale style come to our cherished boulevard. With all the disposable income in our community, it’s always refreshing to find food presentations, combined with the eagerness of the staff to please and serve, topped off with the fact that they appear to “not be trying too hard” to create a presentation. Oh, and Sean the waiter is absolutely adorable and tells us he has some hidden assets beyond waiting tables. With the local four corners offering such downscale selections as “The Voodoo Room”, Hamburger Haven (great burgers), and Pavilions, it’s nice to find a little bastion of delectable treats and comfortable service creeping into our neighborhood. And if you don’t think you hit the mother lode at this restaurant, there’s always that old stand-by right across the street.

Little Ones

Mark's
Pomodoro Cucina Italiana
Taste
Casita Del Campo
Fabiolus Cafe
Flying Leap Cafe
Pink Pepper
Chan Dara

Cafe Marco
Flavor of India
Hamburger Mary's
Jinky's Cafe
Jinpachi
Marco's Trattoria


Mark's, this hotbed of hot men is the perennial gay favorite, offering California Cuisine served by some of the most handsome waiters. Don't miss “half price Monday's” and be sure to try their Pan Seared Chicken Breast accompanied with their sensational martinis. Sunday brunch is always fun; if you’re feeling like you need to eat healthy, try the Hardbody Scramble whilst ogling the hard body at the table next to you. Feel like an upgrade? Slide next door to the grande dame of Los Angeles restaurants, L'Orangerie ($$$+) or just go there for a drink in the bar before it’s closing December 31st, forever. , 851 N. La Cienega Bl, 310 652 5252, Sunday Brunch-D, continental, $$$

Pomodoro Cucina Italiana, founded in 1994 with an impressive 45 locations, stop by and say hi to friendly and welcoming managers Fabian & Liz and try their famed rich and cheesy Lasagna, one of the favorites by this chain; The express lunch menu is perfect for those on the go. If you have the time to enjoy your lunch there, try their Meatball Panini and the simple Steak Salad, both of which should not be missed. Although this eatery can tend to be very boisterous, the wait staff is always helpful and attentive, and may allow you to forget the sound level. 7100 Santa Monica Bl, 323 969 8000, L-D, Italian, $$

Fabiolus Cafe, It all started just outside Acapulco (the country, not the cheesy restaurant chain) in 1985 and Fabio Conti has never looked back. His Los Angeles began at Marino’s, one of Los Angeles’ finest Italian restaurants. Fabio will welcome you with open arms when you enter these Northern Italian haunts and still subscribes to initial philosophy that the venue “has to be fun”; You'll be pleased with their heaping bowls of delicious pasta. It is always a safe bet to start with their mouth watering Calamaretti Fritti and continue with the Risotto Primavera, which is always fresh and tasty 5255 Melrose Av, 323 464 5857, 8270 W Sunset Bl, 323 464 5857, L-D, Italian, $$

Flying Leap Cafe, Silverlake residents covet the delicious food here created by Chef Jorge Pastor Arias. His philosophy has always been to keep it simple while always using the freshest ingredients; be brave and take a flying leap into one of our favorite dishes, the Chicken Cordon Bleu. Everything is priced reasonably, like their Cobb Salad at $13.95, which is a winner. We have heard from customers that they rave about their Bacon Bleu burger and don’t forget about spending Sunday brunch, where you can sample their own special rendition of Eggs Benedict and Eggs Silverlake; naturally, you are welcome to build your own omelette. 2538 Hyperion Av, 323 661 0618, SundayBrunch-D, continental, $$

Taste, this is one of the friendliest eateries in town. Choose to sit in one of their double sided rustic dining rooms, and enjoy the scenery; speaking of, best of all Taste sports one of the hottest waiters in town, Clint, who provides yet another reason to keep coming back, again and again. This charming eatery offers an extensive wine list by the glass with over 15 selections, on any given evening. Try their Fennel Crusted Ahi Tuna, which is mouth watering and just say’s “yum”. It’s always pleasant to dine on their outside patio, even with cars wizzing by. 8454 Melrose Av, 323 852 6888, Sunday B-L-D, American, $$$

Pink Pepper, this minimal and skillfully monochromatic establishment is anything but pink. We’ve been to Thailand for the real thing, and this authentic Thai cuisine spices in a touch of California and Pacific Rim accents, making it a deliciously perfect spot for romantic dates; although the portions tend to be on the small side, they are also very reasonably priced. This is a place where you can go as a group and share a number of different entrees and walk away satiated. Don’t miss their Pad Thai noodles and their extraordinary curry dishes. If you’re a garlic aficionado, you must try their Garlic Lover’s Chicken. 1638 N. La Brea, 323 461 2462, L-D, Thai, $$

Casita del Campo, , Rudy, a successful dancer and one of the “sharks” in West Side Story and his beautiful wife, Nina Del Campo opened this “old faithful” in 1962, and we've been coming back since then for their old school Mexican food; like an old friend, Casita offers Pollo Mole with 15 special ingredients and some of the best tasting Magaritas in town; Their Casitas Special should not be missed and the patio is always a blast. It seems every night there is some sort of fun diversions occurring from Tarot Card Reading on Thursdays to inspiring tableside magicians on Friday. 1820 Hyperion Av, 323 662 4255, Mexican, L-D, $$

Chan Dara, Chan Dara is still adored by us and so many friends after all these years; these scrumptious Thai restaurants never disappoint and one continues to fantasize about their Tom Kah Kai, their flavorful combination of chicken and coconut soup, not to mention their Spicy Fried Rice; many of the dishes come with freshly ground peanuts. The stuffed chicken wings make us drool. Sit on the tranquil patio under the shade of umbrellas and banana palms at the Larchmont location and be served dutifully by sexy and exotic Asian waitresses; Chan Dara remains certainly one of Thai favorites in town. 310 N. Larchmont, 323 467 1052, 1551 N. Cahuenga, 323 464 8585, 11940 W. Pico Bl, 310 479 4461, L-D Monday-Friday, Dinner Saturday-Sunday, Thai, $$$


Cafe Marco, It’s all about the coffee (it's the Old Buzz Coffee Shop which is now part of the Marco's Trattoria-Pizziera) and is like eating at Mom's, if only she was Italian; and she can spy on you too (and the other hunks often sitting table side) on their web cam. Don’t forget to catch what’s on the walls because it is an ever-changing art exhibition. You can start your meal with their wonderful home baked bread and the pasta selection here is awe inspiring with over twenty unique dishes on the menu. Don’t fill up without leaving room for their authentic Spumoni. 8200 Santa Monica Bl, B-L-D daily,323 650 7442, Italian, $

Marco's Trattoria, It’s all about the pizzas; does that sound familiar? It should, because it’s the same owners as Café Marco. This is a good home style affordable Italian cooking (love the manicotti) right in the thick of things. For the health conscious, try the Pasta Marcos and their Ultimate Club at lunch, a favorite. Marco’s is a great spot to meet for breakfast; be sure to try their Avocado and Jarlsberg Scrambled Eggs. They are happy to deliver if it’s been a rough night and always check their website for discount coupons. Clay Aiken (NOT gay) was spotted there humming a song. 8136 Santa Monica Bl, B-L-D Daily, 310 650 2771, Italian $$

Flavor of India, Chef Darshan and his brother, Tarsem, welcome you with open arms at this Northern Indian spot. They pride themselves on only using the freshest elements, which excludes the use of any oils. You can dine al freco in their charming patio. If you need to be in Boystown and are jonesing for Indian, this is the place. There may be better Indian joints, but this convenient local proves to be quite tasty. Don’t forget to ask for their savory Vegetable soup; although you won’t find any beef here, many other choices abound and all their desserts are made on the premises. 9045 Santa Monica Bl, L-D Daily, closed Monday, 310 274 1715, Indian, $$

Hamburger Mary's, This is truly the spot to “eat, drink and be Mary” while enjoying a fun meal with friends, new and old. It all started in San Francisco in 1972, spreading nationwide from there. With six locations and more to come Stan Sax’s concept of a gay burger bar is always happening and Wednesday night is drag queen bingo. Everything is made in their own kitchens and we've had great healthy size burgers and huge margaritas, but it can be “hit or missy”, yet always fun. It is one of West Hollywood's watering holes and don’t forget that their HOT Bloody Mary’s. 8288 Santa Monica Bl, L-D Daily, 323 654 3800, American, $

Jinky's Cafe, It’s breakfast anytime and well worth the wait. Founded in 1992 and going strong since then, every visit should focus on the sensational pancakes; if its carbs you crave, don't forget their unique Flakey French Toast battered with frosted Corn Flakes. Jinky’s always has a nice selection of Chili on hand (try their Chili Nachos, which steps it up a notch from the others) ranging from an intense 10 based on heat (OUCH) to a easy 2. If you have a sweet tooth, you can finish with their double chocolate cake. Get past the decor and you'll most definitely enjoy yourself. 1147 second street, Santa Monica, 310 917 3311, 14120 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks, 818 981 2250, 8539 W. sunset Bl, B-L-D daily, 310 859 9670, American, $

Jinpachi, If you’re into fish (or if you gave that up years ago), this little neighborhood sushi bar is a must try; it’s always crowded and certainly delectable. Owner Hirotaka “Taka” Fujita is a culinary artist, a master sushi chef who hails from a family of sushi chefs; along with his wife Tomoko Akabe, they create specialties that includes colorful fruit soup, amongst many other creative wonders. You can always be assured that you’ll be eating the freshest components here. Their Sushi combination at $25 is a great value. For non sushi eaters, don’t be deterred because they do have Tempura. 8711 Santa Monica Bl, 310 358 9134,D Monday, L-D Tuesday-Saturday, Japanese, $$$

Las Vegas’ Top 5 Restaurants

Joël Robuchon at The Mansion
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
3799 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (Tropicana Ave.)
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-891-7925

His name says it all; Joel Robuchon created trendy French cuisine as we know it today; especially don’t miss the pan-fried sea bass. Come starving and be dazzled by the 16 course tasting meal. Very expensive (you may have to trade in the car).


Mix
The Hotel at Mandalay Bay
3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S (Tropicana Ave. & Russell Rd.)
Las Vegas, NV 89119
702-632-9500

Mandalay Bay was one of the first to have great restaurants; “see and be seen” at Alain Ducasse’s eatery where we love their Roasted Maine Lobster with curry. Expensive (trade in the wardrobe).


Fleur de Lys
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (Tropicana Ave.)
Las Vegas, NV 89119
702-632-9400

A classic French haunt for those who insist on authentic “old school” French cuisine. Try their slow roasted wild Alaskan Salmon, one of Scott’s favorite dishes. Expensive (trade in the boyfriend).


Wing Lei
Wynn Las Vegas
3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (Desert Inn Rd. & Sands Ave.)
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-770-3388, 888-320-WYNN

Chinese food and atmosphere simply does not get any better this side of the Great Wall; we spent a lot of wontons for the exquisite shark fin soup, but two can eat comfortably at $100 per person. Expensive (spend the down payment for your house).


Alex
Wynn Las Vegas
3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (Desert Inn Rd. & Sands Ave.)
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-770-3300

Hands down the finest and most luxurious restaurant in Las Vegas and possibly the Americas; opt for the chef’s tasting menu or the sommelier menu ($375 per person, and well worth it), and demand the lobster with black truffles. Expensive (mortgage your house).

Kiss Me, Kate

KATE MANTILINI
9101 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills
310 278 3699

Cuisine: Everything Goes
The Scene: The Whole Neighborhood
Must Try: Eggs Benedict with a Bloody Mary
Star Rating: 3 of 4
Average Cost: $12.95 - 38 Entree


Monday 7:30 a.m. – midnight
Tuesday – Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Friday 7:30 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Sunday 10:00 a.m. - midnight



Talk about an old favorite. Opened in 1987 (recently in Woodland Hills) this is our hangout for breakfast, lunch or dinner. In fact, it’s Scott’s lunchtime “commissary” with three visits a week. It’s the atmosphere, it’s the food, and of course it’s two of the most handsome waiters in Los Angeles: woofable Jason Smith with dimples big enough to get lost in, and Brian Timpani (who moved to Bastide, and has yet to resurface).

We don’t think there is another restaurant in Los Angeles that does so many things so well. Michael is all about the Bloody Mary’s and claims Kate’s to have the finest in town. They are hot but not eye watering and perfectly spiced; just like Jason the waiter. Their mix is their own and it shows. Kate’s Eggs Benedict are superlative; we have tried to find better but we never have; they come accompanied by tasty hash browns.

The menu is vast and was created by restaurateur visionaries (Hamburger Hamlets) Marilyn and Harry Lewis. A dashing couple, Harry the former star of “KEY LARGO” and Marilyn, author, producer and clothing designer (Cardinelli), made these restaurants a family affair with sons Adam and David running the show. Lunches, dinners and late evening snacks (what else good is open until 2 AM weekends?) all have things that make us hungry just speaking of them.

The Dining Duo loves Cole slaw and Kate’s has the correct combo of spices and mayo. Standouts consist of Marilyn’s own recipe for her extraordinary Chicken Pot Pie ($18.50). Kate’s had Mac n’ Cheese before it became chic in Los Angeles and theirs is amongst the best. The White Chili ($17.50) is amongst the best chili around. Healthy alternatives include the spicy Dominican Chicken Burrito (which is a total misconception as it’s clean and healthy and a “word of mouth” secret) for $16.50. The Life Rice Chicken is a diet conscious dish that still teases the palette with an assortment of light spices and onions ($17.50). And the wild Salmon is bursting with Omega 3s.

Forget healthy? Then go for it with the most sinful deep fried French toast triangle of yum you’ll ever taste. Scott’s favorite food group is “pancakes” and Kate’s serves up the best delicately thin crepe-like pancakes smothered in butter and syrup. It all makes the Dining Duo drool. Or was it Jason, the waiter?