324500 Sat Sep 09 05:35:05 -0700 2006 4 2 Los Angeles Area 0 1864658 I just read on the Calendar page of the L.A. Times and confirmed by calling the restaurant that L'Orangerie is closing at the end of the year. Should pay I pay a visit before the restaurant closes its doors forever? I don't mind paying (or even over paying) as long as it is a great dining experience. To those individuals who have dined there, I'd love to hear your comments. Thank you. /s/ JackWESQ Sat Sep 09 05:35:05 -0700 2006 39107 JackWESQ 1 1864725 Answer to your question: Yes. L'Orangerie has to be one of hallmarks of classic, sophisticated French dining in LA history. Multiple chefs have risen from this establishment to launch their own reputable restaurants, with patrons hankering for a reservation. The food can be traditional, or lean a bit toward the experimental at times. Examples -- a delicious les oeufs topped with Petrossian caviar and served in a silver cup; a loup de mer in a sea of white, swathed in more caviar; foie gras brulee; perfectly cooked squab sided with mini puffed potatoes; an inventive corona beer granita; a spur-of-the-moment dessert made of pineapple sorbet and white chocolate sticks; a traditional apple tartin spanning the entire plate; a high Grand Marnier souffle with the cream poured directly before you, an ever-changing arm-lengthed serving of petit fours. Glowing chandeliers, tall bouquets, sparkling glasses, namesake plates, high ceilings, handsome bar, grand piano, and a candelit tables perfect the setting of a French mansion. The host himself walks from table to table, pouring wine, ensuring everyone is enjoying their evening. He even permitted me to tour the kitchen once and meet the executive and pastry chef. A look behind the scenes reflected a team hard at work, in stainlessly clean settings and with a truly kind and warm staff. I hope you do get a chance to dine here before it closes! Sat Sep 09 06:56:27 -0700 2006 1864658 11006 chica 1 1864749 I'd go check it out. The room is beautiful. The food and service was excellent. We went there a couple weeks ago. The caviar egg was killer. Sat Sep 09 07:56:35 -0700 2006 1864658 11810 socal boy 1 1865388 Be advised -- the eggs come in pairs and are wonderful yet filling. They used to do a great spiny lobster dish, but that may have been when Eme was at the helm... Gorgeous room(s) and a nice opportunity to dress up. Sat Sep 09 19:29:46 -0700 2006 1864658 28279 Maxmillion 1 1865743 You better go before Nobu takes over that spot! Sat Sep 09 23:24:46 -0700 2006 1864658 39262 ronnie_gaucho