Birthday Dinner

[Ezzthetic]

Hi all.

So my birthday is coming up in a few weeks, and Id like to celebrate it with friends and family over a good meal. Im always interested in new and fresh places to dine, and really have few dislikes. Im looking for a place that has ambiance, good wine and/or coctailsm and is good for a lengthy experience. I have recently tried and been impressed with: Beacon, Harold and Belle's, Typhoon.

Again, Im open to suggestions. After all, thats the point of this thread!

[JBC]

Sushi Zo has been writen about here postively many and every(?) time. Do a search here and check out the post above:

http://www.chowhound.com/topics/show/...

[Nicole]

Ditto on the AOC rec. And ditto on avoiding Crustacean at all costs.

[amandine]

Your description fits Literati II to a T. It's on Wilshire and Bundy... a gorgeous, laid-back restaurant directly adjacent to the famous Literati Cafe. Incredibly nice setting with seasonal menu, strong emphasis on quality ingredients. Upscale without feeling the least bit stuffy and the service is very friendly and not intrusive. One of my favorite places in L.A.

[ipsedixit]

Try Bistro Verdu in Montrose (www.bistroverdu.com

)

I know another poster suggested Crustacean, but I would avoid that place like it's kryptonite and your friend is Superman ...

[Pei]

I too would avoid Crustacean. Cheesy, dateddecor, mediocre food, atrocious prices on many items, and just not that great.

[AquaW]

Triple on that -- way overpriced for what it is (the food's good, but certainly nothing WOW and can be gotten for much cheaper elsewhere)

[luswei]

A.O.C.
Cobras & Matadors
Grace's
Norman's
Crustacean

[Francesca]

I took dear friend to French 75 Bistro in Burbank last month for birthday dinner and it was a great experience. The food was good, it's new, the decor is gorgeous. I think they have a jazz trio on weekend nights.

Check it out.