Suggestions for a birthday dinner in Los Angeles?

[knoxymama]

Hiya!

I'm looking for suggestions for a special birthday dinner in the Los Angeles area. I prefer something downtown, in West Hollywood or Westside. It's my boyfriend's birthday and I would like to take him somewhere special.

We love food - our favorite restaurant experiences include A.O.C. in Los Angeles, Redd in Yountville, Stonehill at St. Regis Orange County... I'd like something special.

Any ideas?

[pleasurepalate]

If you enjoy French cuisine, you should check out La Cachette. It's a beautiful restaurant space, plus the food is tasty and service excellent. Check out the restaurant website link below:

http://www.lacachetterestaurant.com/

I've also really enjoyed Norman's, a restaurant in West Hollywood that specializes in Latin fusion. Their link is below:

http://www.normans.com/index2.html

Thanks,
Abby

[sfglutton]

Interesting, your three favorites are the same as mine! Redd was incredible. But on a local note, what about Sona? Great tasting experience like Redd. Check it out:
http://www.sonarestaurant.com/

[djdebs]

How about Grace? Look above for a bunch of raves. And definitely tell them it's a special occasion.

[knoxymama]

I will check that out - I haven't ever heard of that restaurant before - thank you so much.

[DonnyMac]

I second the Grace recommendation strongly.

Others to consider besides Grace for an AOC or Stonehill Tavern level experience include: (1) Ortlolan; (2) Providence; (3) Josie. Smaller and quieter, but excellent is Hatfields.

[mattyshack]

Hungry Cat or Citizen Smith come to mind. Hungry Cat is good if you like fish dishes. Also former chef from AOC is one of the owners.

At Citizen Smith the fried chicken is good, along with the jalepeno mac and cheese, and Frozen Hot Chocolate for dessert. Comfort food in a trendy, cool spot.

I haven't been yet, but I also want to try Simon LA at Sofitel. The menu sounds good but reviews are mixed.

Off Vine is a quant little place, romantic. Or try Magnolia or The Bowery for a little more people watching action with very good food.

[knoxymama]

I have heard of Hungry Cat, but I don't do fish (I wish I did, just can't get myself to go there!). I will check out the other options - thank you so much for the ideas!!!

[knoxymama]

I've poked around on the site - I'm thinking:

The Lodge
Cut
Nic's (because I've been there and the food is good, but it's also fun!)

We've already been to Mastro's (went for my birthday) - I'm not much into Spago.

Any feedback or additional suggestions will be very much appreciated. ;)