Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills
Mariposa
9700
Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310)
975-4350
The basement
of Neiman Marcus has been completely redone and finally resembles Harrods or
some other world-class department store.
As your escalator sinks
into the basement amidst cosmetics, perfumes, lotions and potions, the space is electric. There is a
wall of glass separating the new Mariposa dining room, which, when inside, allows you to yearn for fancy
treats and gifts while you dine and observe.
Like most of the aging women frequenting the place, Mariposa has survived
a much needed face lift with a vibrant, youthful result.
The plank marble
floors have a contemporary look and offset the good-looking aqua blue and shades
of yellows accenting the room. Anchoring are two larger booths surrounded by
blown glass ornaments and Mercury glass beads. Gone are the rather dull Calder
tapestries and instead now there is an elegant nod to the good tastes of the 50's
with a present day that keeps it from looking like a theme room. .
Along the
entire back wall is a full bar which replaces the former dark wall (due to no
windows in this basement setting).
Behind the bar are a series faux windows with a constantly changing light
show of colors and what seems to look like a workman on the other side washing
windows. If you look closely at the shadows cast, there seems to be something large
dangling between his legs but we are hoping that is a safety belt and nothing
more. Or perhaps it's a way of entertaining the usual older, female and gay population
who crowd this famous Beverly Hills watering hole.
The chairs
and banquettes are a lovely cream color and aqua blue glasses set off the basic
white tables and stylish (and comfortable) chairs.
As you settle into your table or banquette,
the usual hot and scrumptiously fattening popovers and shot of chicken broth
are placed before you to start your lunch.
There are
many staples still on the menu and many new choices as well. Scott indulged in
the lobster club which was just as delicious as before the transformation
(although it was a tad light on the lobster for the hefty price of $30). We suggest
that you ask them to skip the third piece of bread and add some bacon.
A tasty latte
was a perfect complement to the sandwich.
Michael
enjoyed the beet salad with a creamy Chevre cheese. It was superb and
deliciously light; just perfect for lunch or a starter. He followed it with the
turkey London broil which was moist and flavorful. The sweet potato fries were
terrific, hand cut and especially tasty.
For a small up charge you can have truffle fries which are even more delicious.
The service
was crisp and professional, as always, and everyone there knows how to make you
feel like you're the most important shopper in the store. Robert was there hosting today, as he has been for
the past 30 or so years, and there just isn't a better representation of Mariposa than both he and James.
We were
pleasantly full and decided to skip on dessert so you will just have to go
yourselves and leave it up to your imagination.
Having written that, the check is delivered with two delicious C. Kay
Cummings chocolate mints to go, which is a beautiful touch and a great way to
start your shopping day.
The Dining Duo
says, "Go" and enjoy a bit of time shopping around the luxurious items of Neiman Marcus when you're finished with dessert.
Appetizingly yours,
Michael and Scott
The Dining Duo
("Like" us on Facebook at The Dining Duo)
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