The Kress
6608 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 785-5000
Hours: Sun, Tues, Wed 5 - 10 pm, Thu-Sat 5 - 11 pm
The Dining Duo has never been much for old Hollywood. The traffic is bad, the streets are dirty and crowded, and the homeless and hucksters are plentiful; but every now and then we are proven wrong, and The Kress takes full credit for us eating our hats, seasoned and cooked to perfection, of course.
Like a mirage, the moment you open the door to this palace of a restaurant, it is clear that you’ve arrived into something special. The main dining room is cavernous (seating 175), yet richly warm, if not exotic. It is framed by a gigantic Asian-inspired chandelier that looks like an upside-down cake and seems to be back-lit by red neon. Our eyes took in the giant golden booths that afford a sense of privacy, as well as the comfy banquettes and tables. Above, the intricately wood carved ceilings were itself a thing of beauty and painstakingly restored to its 1930s splendor; and this was only the dining room. After spending nearly 30 million dollars on dolling up the old Kress department store (which was more recently, Fredericks of Hollywood), the San Diego based visionaries created a 38,000 square foot, 5 floor city exotica offering the beautiful people everything from affordable fabulous dining, to a giant curved sushi bar overlooking the main room, to hob-knobbing with the likes of LL Cool J, The Pussycat Dolls, Rihanna, Chris Brown, Justin Timberlake, and more.
Now back to the food, and it was terrific. After being seated in one of those giant gold round booths by a gorgeous girl,
the equally gorgeous Nate rushed us water, while the well-trained and informed (and cute) Mathew came right to our aid with food suggestions. Chef Travis Kamiyama has taken over the business and menu planning aspects, and after opening a host of restaurants since he was 14, it shows. Chef loves bringing people of all varieties together and bridging the gap through food, and he’s reduced the original prices to do so.
The Chef is Japanese born and American raised, and his food is Asian-inspired, reflecting elements of Korean, Chinese, Japanese and other Southeast Asian locales. The highlights are the sushi, wok items and the grill. 
He uses only the finest blue-finned tuna, the king of all tunas, selecting those nearly translucent fishes originating from Spain, Malta and Croatia. The Blue-eyed tuna is from Hawaii, and the meat of the fish we experienced was super red, not showing a lot of fat. The Lobster hails from the North Atlantic coast, and the Kompachi is from Japan. No scrimping here.
Reflecting an “Eo Mae” style from Tokyo, none of the dishes we tasted were overly sauced like many restaurants we’ve experienced as of late. Even the rice served is freshly milled right at the restaurant, ensuring freshness and quality of taste.
The standout were so many but don’t miss the Lamb Chops with some caramelized onions at $22, which Scott particularly enjoyed. 
Michael loved the Kobe Beef (American, but tasted close to Japanese) at $39 in a red wine reduction sauce. The Crispy Spicy Tuna Roll gives Katsu ya and every other sushi restaurant in town a run for their money at $18, it was fresh and delicately prepared. The daily fish inspiration, sea bass, was indeed inspired in its ultimate freshness and its light flavor ($24).
We weren’t crazy about the chocolate dessert we tasted, but the plate of five Crème Brulees in sake cups 
more than made up for it. Each one had its own unique flavors, ranging from vanilla to peanut butter, and it was out of this world. Hard to believe we had room after the eat-a-thon to devour desert, but it was well worth the calories and the price at $8. We’re anxious to go back and try their warm Banana Split ($23).
For something unique and European, as well as Eastern, this is the place. Come for the food, take in the fabulous décor, drool over the people and spend the night wandering the building—downstairs to the Kress basement nightclub, upstairs to the happening rooftop bar that’s bubbling with energy and raging hormones. Just don’t valet park your car, or it could set you back $20 bucks. Never mind, we parked on the street.
Saturday
Thursday
MURANO
9010 Melrose Ave
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Phone: (310) 246-9118
Magnifico!
The legions of Café Figaro fans will be overwhelmed at the high drama and stunningly beautiful environs that now calls itself Murano, and with good cause. From the moment you enter the clean, white establishment, you’re immediately greeted by two magnificent Murano glass chandeliers, all in black and custom made for the space to incorporate one tier of nearly twenty arms. Flanked by two enormous mirrors on either end of the main room, there are thirty other gorgeous Murano chandeliers throughout the restaurant, many in vibrant reds and setting the owners back more than $250,000 all in the name of authenticity.
Robin Ganz and Sandy Sachs (of Girl Bar and Dinah Shore Week fame) have partnered with our old friend Jeffrey Sanker (of Palm Springs White Party fame) to create a significant and noteworthy addition to the restaurant scene. Beyond the expected backdrop of beautiful men and women, they combined their respective efforts to bring in Kristi Ritchey, formerly with the Patina Group, to jazz the menu with as much panache and fan fare as the remarkable chandeliers.
Going beyond the Philippe Starck look with bed sheet comfort, the beautiful hardwood floors immediately add warmth, as do the extremely comfortable soft, white leather seats that beckon you to spend some time and enjoy the food, as well as the surroundings. We were impressed with the table settings themselves, consisting of neat and aesthetically pleasing dishes, as well as cutlery with a distinctive flare. White tablecloths adorn the tables, and although the restaurant was filled with life and laughter, it was not noisy and obtrusive, allowing you to talk intimately to your partner across from you, or amongst a table of friends.
It’s always impressive to The Dining Duo when a new eatery brings together all of the right essentials and elements to burst onto the scene and all at once be the place at which to be, eat, and socialize; this is indeed that place. The food was delicious, and it simply is difficult to point out some of our favorites, as many of the choices were noteworthy. The panzella salad with tomatoes, fresh burrata cheese, polenta crisps, and olive vinaigrette was particularly interesting to the palate, and definitely something we’d recommend ($14). The appetizers were plentiful and interesting conglomerations of food elements as well. Staying with the Italian theme, Kristi creates a taste of Italy with bruschetta, olive tapinade, roasted red pepper mousse, eggplant caviar, oven-roasted tomatoes, baby artichokes, and fresh mozzarella served with crustini ($14). It was divine, and we felt as if we were walking down the streets of Venezia and into a fabulous Italian restaurant. Michael also enjoyed the prosciutto di Parma wrapped phyllo grissini with fig marmalade, a balsamic reduction, and micro arugula ($14), that was such an interesting combination of flavors that he simply couldn’t put it down. Scott had to take a nibble and agreed whole-heartedly.
With six different pasta variations, we found the best to be the sweet corn agnolotti, which came accompanied with crisp pancetta, a port wine reduction, and shaved Parmesan cheese ($17). Again, the extraordinary amalgamation of tastes was ethereal, and The Dining Duo devoured it amongst the assortment of fabulous chandeliers, fabulous interiors, and fabulous-looking people. As if the latter was not enough to satiate the senses, one of the many entrées will fill the bill. Although the Atlantic salmon was not wild, the dish was accompanied by sautéed white asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and shaved green asparagus salad ($23). The salmon was cooked properly with a slight medium-rare center, and the white asparagus was particularly fresh and tasty. On another visit, we enjoyed the seafood risotto with scallops, jumbo prawn, whitefish, and lobster reduction ($27), which had just the correct proportion of each to make it a grouping of tastes without losing each individual flavor of the particular seafood item.
Brunch at Murano is darn tasty too. Not only is it served until late (who in the world likes to get up early on a Sunday just to rush to brunch?), but additionally the baked apple pancake with cinnamon sugar, vanilla crème fraîche, candied walnuts, and then doused in maple syrup ($12) was “Sweet Tooth Scott’s” absolute favorite brunch item in a long, long time. Although The Duo usually prefers its pancakes pure, this creative combination of flavors was a sure winner. The brioche French toast with fresh berries and raspberry sauce ($13) was also astonishing. If you’re not into eggs and breakfast favorites, there are also a large variety of salads and entrées, including croque monsieurs and margarita pizzas that will be sure to satisfy.
As if this wasn’t enough to send you into a diabetic coma, make sure to try the desserts, especially the Meyer lemon pudding with citrus sauce ($8), which was tasty, fresh, and had just the right amount of zing. The granny smith apple tartlet accompanied by marscapone gelato, caramel sauce, and walnut brittle ($9) was also a definite hit.
Speaking of definite hits, make sure to hit up Murano before it becomes so incredibly popular you won’t be able to get in the door. After all we ate, The Dining Duo gained a few hundred pounds and also can’t get in that very same door.
Scarboni’s
312 Wilshire Bl
Santa Monica, Ca 90401
310 393 2288
The Scene: New York style steak house
Cuisine: Steak & lobster
Must Try: Lobster Club and Bloody Mary
Star Rating: 2.75
Best Dish: Any steak
Sometimes there are restaurants that you just want to love and Scarboni is one of those places. From the moment co-owner Tommy Saboni (formerly the General Manager of the Palm in West Hollywood) welcomes you, you feel like you have arrived at an Italian friend’s home. Scarboni is new to the game, and not perfect yet, so this warm treatment caused us to be more forgiving of growing pains. That being said, almost everything we tasted was delicious and there was plenty of it.
Scarboni’s is located right off the ho-hum of the Third Street Promenade and is an unexpected treat for the area. If you are desirous of being in New York while at the beach, Scarboni’s is the place and when inside you feel like you’re in Manhattan, but without the foul weather, grey sleet and crowded streets.
Tommy is trying to draw in new business so he’s offering an Executive VIP Lunch Club which gives you a 30 percent discount on all food items. Speaking of, we savored the Lobster Club Sandwich, literally loaded with fresh lobster and served on a flawlessly toasted brioche, a bargain at $16 (less 30%, if you’re in the club). Michael’s dad lives in Maine so he knows about Lobster, and Scarboni’s saves you the 5 hour flight (and security check). We would suggest, however, avoiding the Chicken Marsala at $18 because it did not have enough chicken and was weak on the Marsala preparation. If you want to play it safe, you can’t go wrong with the Scarboni burger, expertly prepared with tasty and quality meat (and the Dining Duo knows about quality meat), and loaded with delicious fries at $12.
We particularly enjoyed dinner, as there was a lively and nice crowd, back dropped by that comfy atmosphere. We tried various Steaks (well, Michael did) and sampled the lobster (well, Scott did) and all proved to be quality. It was like going to the Palm, without the wait, or the attitude. Michael particularly enjoyed the rib eye which arrived exactly as he had ordered it ($40) and we highly recommend the blackened Salmon (even though it was not wild….tsk, tsk) which was scrumptious, a terrific blend of spice and very fresh fish. We advise you accompany any dish with Brussel Sprouts Scarboni, (Scott said “yuck” at the concept, but he took it back when he tasted it), they are a specialty and certainly worth trying. Dipped in batter and smothered in garlic (hey, isn’t that the same as escargot?), it was yum; be brave and get it.
A friend enjoyed the Steak Fromage (that means “cheese” in French, as opposed to “Frottage”, which has an entirely different take) at $46, and said it is smothered with Roquefort, creating a delicious blend of flavors. If you’re hungry, the Veal Parmesan at $26 has always been Michael’s favorite dish at the Palm, Tommy’s old haunt; poor little lamb (or does veal come from a duck? Who knows, but Michael said it’s fabulous).
Be sure and save room for dessert because the classic New York Cheese Cake and the Chocolate Mouse cake are worth each and every calorie. Scarboni’s has just opened for Sunday lunch and we’re looking forward to trying out their fare, which includes the Roast Beef Hash and Eggs and one of the best Bloody Mary’s in LA.
Okay, so it’s a schlep to the beach, but aren’t good food, good service and Italian muscle worth it?
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.
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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.
Tuesday
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
One of our loyal readers recently email us and asked, “My mom is coming into town and I want to take her to Beverly Hills to see the sites and glitzy Rodeo Drive stores. I want to show my mom the town, but I don’t really have the budget to take her to all those ‘fancy’ restaurants. Can we have lunch in Beverly Hills without having to sell my boyfriend on the street?”
Beverly Hills: movie stars, mansions and even oil wells (take a tour of Scott’s alma mater, Beverly Hills High School). But all that glitters does not have to cost gold. The dining duo skulked around Beverly Hills in search of a comfortable lunch venue that won’t set you back so that you can then spend some of that extra saved dough on a special gift for your honey…and for Mom! This is what we found:
EURO CAFFÉ BEVERLY HILLS
9559 Santa Monica Blvd (little Santa Monica between rodeo & Camden)
Beverly Hills, CA
310. 274-9070
One of our favorite respites from the chaotic shopping streets of Beverly Hills is this charming espresso and cappuccino bar that features paninis, pastries, exotic cookies and homemade cakes for all occasions. With four small tables indoors and three more on the street, you feel like you’re in a French café where you can’t help but meet one of the interesting patrons sitting next to you. The walls are covered in murals of a French countryside, while the ceiling is draped with banners from soccer teams around the globe. The crowd is handsome European, and the amiable owners always have the television playing a soccer game from somewhere around the world. The food is just terrific, and quite reasonably priced. We particularly love the tuna salad panini made on fresh baked bread to die for and filled with white albacore tuna mixed with mayo, Roma tomato and arugula leaf ($7.03); it brings a whole new meaning to “tuna sandwich”. Or try the vegetarian #1 (ask for extra basil), a delectable blend of grilled eggplant, zucchini, red and yellow roasted bell peppers, Roma tomatoes, basil, olive oil, lemon and smothered in mozzarella cheese (also, only $7.03). The coffees are imported from Rome, as is the elaborate “Wizard of Oz” machine that brews them, and we love drinking them so much we get enough java jolting through our veins that we don’t care about navigating the hideous traffic outside.
PAPA JAKE’S
9527 Santa Monica Boulevard
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310. 276-7823
There are haunts of ours which have been around for years, and Papa Jake’s is one of them. Jake Lodish, the sexy and adorable owner is only in his mid thirties but started this as a child (well, almost), and has been consistently noted as LA’s “number one cheese steak”, which is, naturally, well worth tasting, and it will only set you back $4.99 for 6 inches…but who do you know who would be satisfied with 6 inches? For $8.25 you can get Jake to give up his 12 inches…need we say more? If you’re not a size queen and prefer big balls instead, try Jakes big Meatball Sandwich served up in—what else—a big basket and covered with Marinara sauce and topped with hot and sweet peppers (only $4.79). Our other choice, especially for Scott, is their unparalleled Tuna Salad sandwiches; possibly one of the best we’ve ever tasted, right up there with Bay Cities Deli in Santa Monica, and so much closer to West Hollywood central. Their hand cut seasoned Kennebec French Fries and their zesty Chicken Parmagiana sandwich are not to be missed. Jakes bakes his own bread and be sure and say hi to him; although he doesn’t play for our team, he’s an absolute sweetheart.
CAFÉ 440
440 North Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310. 273-5440
On the famous main artery of Beverly Hills Glam scene, and unexpectedly inside the equally famous Frederic Fekkai hair salon for the rich and beautiful, we find hidden on the outdoor balcony Café 440. With two patios, one completely shaded and the other half covered and half drenched in sun, it is the perfect spot to wile away a lazy Beverly Hills lunch far from the madding crowd. In fact, three stories above the noise of Rodeo drive, if you close your eyes you might imagine yourself on La Croisette in Cannes, France just after a long day at the Marche Du Film. The repast, however, is far, far away from the France’s most expensive locale. Perfectly served up by Cecilia (although, she’s on maternity leave at the moment but promises to come back soon), their burgers are superb and wonderfully seasoned, just like some of the salons patrons. The soup of the day is always interesting and tasty and can be had for only $4.75. And their Lobster Club is so yummy it makes us think that we are at Michael’s Dad’s home in Maine, well…. almost. On a beautiful day, there is nothing better than to kick up your feet and think about how you’re not one of the crazy people spending ridiculous sums of money on the street below. Beware: just like in France, the service is slow, so avoid it if you’re in a hurry, or if you’ve just enjoyed three double espressos at Euro Caffe. Anyway, it is such a pleasant environment, you won’t want to leave, and if you’re in the mood, you can also get a manicure, pedicure or haircut while you’re between bites.
BASIC BITES
443 North Beverly Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310. 247-9673
The name says it all. Basic Bites is right in the thick of things and offers an array of good, healthy eats for affordable prices. It lacks some of the charm of our other selections, but you can still sit outside on the sidewalk and watch the world go by as you nibble on tasty sandwiches and salads with amusing names. With sandwiches called “Hoppin Ham”, “Power Prosciutto” and “Rockin’ Bresaola” (from $4.60 to $6.05) only to be out outdone by salads called “Conquering Caesar”, “Dancing Greek”, and “Slammin’ Salmon” (from $4.60 to 6.75) there is always something to satisfy your hunger. We particularly liked the, “Kickin’ Chicken” sandwich ($4.60) which was filled with sliced smoked chicken, brie, tomato, aula, olive paste and mayo. The Vegetarian soup at $2.05 for a cup is very tasty as well. And, if you happen to work in Beverly Hills, they’ll deliver too.
ANGELINA FROZEN YOGURT
430 N. Bedford
BH 90210
310 858 8258
After you dine, or if you’re watching your waistline, stop by Angelina’s for a quick frozen yogurt. Smooth and creamy, it’s the perfect way to top the day and there’s enough to satisfy you for less than $3. And in addition to the health benefits you probably already know about….did you know that frozen yogurt can quell bad breath? The last thing we would want while strolling the streets of Beverly Hills is bad breath!
SPRINKLES
9635 Santa Monica Boulevard
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
310. 274-8765
So you feel like a sugar fix? If you do nothing else but want to impress Mom with the most expensive cupcake on the planet, don’t miss Sprinkles on Little Santa Monica Blvd. just off the main shopping area. The storefront shop displays some of the most fabulous-looking cupcakes you’ll see ever, which somehow justifies you spending $46 a dozen (or $3.50 a piece). But hey, if you skip lunch, don’t buy anything on Rodeo Drive and park for free in one of the several “2 hour free parking” city lots, digging in for one $3.50 cupcake with great packaging and high-end excess will make you a hero with your Mom, your partner or your date later that night.
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