346833 Thu Nov 30 00:21:11 -0800 2006 139 2 Los Angeles Area 0 2056994 This whole potato ball at Porto's discussion has led me to investigate other simple, yet awesome concepts in food around LA. Take the potato ball - simply mashed potatoes around ground beef, fried to a golden crisp. It's not brain surgery, but soooooooooo good. I'll go ahead and throw some out there: *Roasted beet and buffalo mozzerella salad at Chateau Marmont: Fresh, delicious balls of cheese with roasted golden and red beets. So simple, yet so refined. A drizzle of good olive oil adds the perfect finish. *Egg salad sandwich at Europane: Big chunks of soft-boiled eggs, chopped into big pieces, piled on top of a piece of crusty, toasted bread. A simple, think mayo dressing and chives top it all off. *Eggs from Hell at Coffee Table: Super spicy sauce scrambled with eggs, served with a side of black beans and a tortilla. Can you say hangover fix? It's so spicy that I actually ask for "easy hell." *Strawberry and brown sugar ice cream at Zanzabelle in Silverlake. It's cold, creamy and has bits of brown sugar in it. *Tomato bisque at Granville Cafe, Burbank: Tomato-y and creamy, it's really the right thing to do on a cold day. *Scallop sushi at Z's in Alhambra Thu Nov 30 00:21:12 -0800 2006 17675 Clare K 1 2057017 Stir fried shrimp - just plain, simple with some green onions and that's it - at J&J Shanghai; and the green beans at Din Tai Fung; and the cheese, butter and ham sandwich at Portugal Imports in Artesia. Thu Nov 30 00:30:40 -0800 2006 2056994 12292 estone888 2 2058617 Those green beans are KILLER!! :) Also the Chinese Broccoli at Dim Sum places (especially Ocean Star) YUM!!! :) --Dommy! Thu Nov 30 17:10:02 -0800 2006 2057017 10659 Dommy 3 2186545 That Chinese Broccoli is the one dish I need to have at Dim Sum... just not complete without it... Sun Jan 14 01:39:03 -0800 2007 2058617 64003 bulavinaka 4 2187932 YES!! That is how I rate Dim Sum places... how good ws their Broccoli! :) --Dommmy! Sun Jan 14 17:36:31 -0800 2007 2186545 10659 Dommy 5 2190723 Sorry - not sure which place you're asking about... but to recall the best one for me is hard as I will slurp them down even if the stalks are hard and stringy... However, I think the nicest most tender ones I had were at Mission 261... the other places I've tried seem to vary in tenderness from time to time... maybe it's seasonal thing... maybe it's a supplier thing... Ocean Star, Sam Woo, and NBC is where we usually go, and while others at the table might complain about the stalks being too tough, I jsut keep chomping... Been reading alot of buzz about that place, The Kitchen... J. Gold's favorite for the time being... Mon Jan 15 17:43:01 -0800 2007 2187932 64003 bulavinaka 1 2057054 Shish kabob at Skaf's grill. Mmmmmmmmmm.... Thu Nov 30 00:43:51 -0800 2006 2056994 10811 Das Ubergeek 1 2057062 The queso fundido and guacomole with fresh tortillas at Monte Alban... The beet salad at Joan's on Third... The tamago at Hide Sushi... The blue crab handroll at Sushi Zo... The five-grain bread at BreadBar... The gargantuan bowl of french onion soup at Doughboys... The sea bass "ala ben" at the Dal Rae... The pretzel rolls at Rockenwagner Bakery... The butterscoth budino at Mozza... The chai tea at Urth Cafe... Thu Nov 30 00:48:57 -0800 2006 2056994 13350 glutton 2 2058623 Second the handroll and the Five Grain bread... Here's a sandwich I made of it... YUM!! :) http://members.aol.com/pmgon/Chowhound/ChixSam.jpg Although at Rockenwagner, NOTHING beats there Cheesy Bacon Scone... I'm so glad we moved from that neighborhood... it would have been the DEATH to my woredrobe... --Dommy! Thu Nov 30 17:12:26 -0800 2006 2057062 10659 Dommy 2 2186549 Pretzel rolls at the Big R - with bacon and cheese... gotta have it! Sun Jan 14 01:40:24 -0800 2007 2057062 64003 bulavinaka 1 2057064 Scrambled egg shrimp at OK Seafood in downtown L.A. The shrimp is perfectly pink and sweet and the eggs have a beautifully silky texture. Very satisfying. Thu Nov 30 00:49:20 -0800 2006 2056994 10240 Bob Brooks 2 2180159 Yum! My favorite dish in the world is "Wa Ton Har Yen" but I never had a version better than Ocean Star's. Will have to try this one. Fri Jan 12 03:30:06 -0800 2007 2057064 11732 Ciao Bob 1 2057138 The oatmeal and raisin cookies at COSTCO. Guess I need a snack, huh? Thu Nov 30 01:18:33 -0800 2006 2056994 16985 Gohantabeyoka 2 2060601 Try the oatmeal and raisin cookies from Trader Joes. They are my favorite TJ's cookie. Fri Dec 01 02:08:16 -0800 2006 2057138 15783 young_chower 1 2057304 Hudade Combo at Rahel veggie Tuna Tartare appetizer at Mamalade cafe in Sherman Oaks Fried Cauliflower from Woodlands Pure in Chatsworth "Stuffed tomato" sashimi dish at Sushi House of Taka Gelson's country cornbread with sweet unsalted butter Friday Night Pizza night pizza at Follow Your Heart cafe Chocolate croissant at breadbar Midnight madness at Jerry's (well, once in a blue moon. AND I get a milkshake AND it eat it all myself. Then I roll over and die) Spinach naan at Gungadin Htapodi (grilled octopus with scallions and balsamic) at Alexis Greek Cafe Pancakes and biscuits at John 'o Groats Mezze at Alcazar Fatoush and hummus with pine nuts at Cedar House cafe Ginger rosewater ice cream from Mashti Malone's Pastrami sandwiches from Langer's Salad with caviar and mixed sashimi salad from O dae San\ so much more to love!!! Thu Nov 30 02:30:08 -0800 2006 2056994 11201 Diana 2 2057733 i love the lunch special at rahel. it is a combination plate of about 4 or 5 different items served with the best injera in town. to top it off, if you're still hungry when you've finished your food, they will bring you more for no extra charge. also the PRA PRIK PAO at Thai Boom is excellent and the curried jackfruit at Bharat Bazaar is great. Thu Nov 30 07:02:46 -0800 2006 2057304 11935 westsidegal 2 2186555 Have a pint of ginger rosewater ice cream and another of the falloudeh in my freezer... Just wish the weather would warm up! Sun Jan 14 01:42:31 -0800 2007 2057304 64003 bulavinaka 1 2057349 In no particular order: Langer's Number 19 Shanghai rice cakes at Din Tai Fung Al bondigas at Mi India Bonita Fish tacos at Tacos Baja Ensenada Carnitas burrito at Ana Marias in the Grand Central Market Steak and eggs at the Pacific Dining Car (downtown) Chicken fried steak at the Pines Cafe Chili relleno burrito at Tere's Carne asada burrito at El Parian Lamb hot pot with sesame scallion bread at China Islamic Those crispy, chewy, rice flour, melted brown sugar Korean pancake treats sold at the stand behind the Korean market at Western and 5th. Lamb chops at Papa Christos Florescent orange chicken and fries at Dino's Burger Truffled french fries at Josie Live king crab at NBC Seafood Rotisserie chicken at Marouche Prime sirloin burger with cheddar cheese and sauteed mushrooms at Arnie Morton's downtown Coconut waffle balls from the Thai vendor at the Hollywood Farmers' Market Carrot cake cupcakes with blood orange filling and mascarpone frosting from Leda's Thu Nov 30 02:51:01 -0800 2006 2056994 10134 David Kahn 2 2057574 The coconut waffle balls are enough to get me to try the HFM. Thu Nov 30 04:46:04 -0800 2006 2057349 40486 Cinnamon 3 2058629 The HFM is probably the second best farmer's market in L.A. We make the trek for it from the Westside... we always have a great time there... The Waffle balls are just an added bonus! :) --Dommy! Thu Nov 30 17:13:43 -0800 2006 2057574 10659 Dommy 4 2058983 where is this thai vendor and the coconut waffle balls? i've been going to the HFM for 6 years and have never seen this! East or West of Vine? Thu Nov 30 18:34:39 -0800 2006 2058629 18246 cinzia 5 2059026 They are almost across the way from the Pupusa Lady, on the side street, facing the few tables they have out... --Dommy! Thu Nov 30 18:44:12 -0800 2006 2058983 10659 Dommy 6 2060516 thank you! Fri Dec 01 01:27:01 -0800 2006 2059026 18246 cinzia 2 2059092 Knew I forgot something: The summer BLT, and the steak frites (year round) at Lucques. Thu Nov 30 19:00:21 -0800 2006 2057349 10134 David Kahn 1 2057468 The small, lower-priced lengua tacos at Fiesta Taco on Hollywood Way in--yep---BURBANK! Thu Nov 30 03:52:40 -0800 2006 2056994 16985 Gohantabeyoka 1 2057572 The beet salad at Jiraffe in Santa Monica. The nicoise salad at Broadway Bar & Grill at the south end of Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. (Who knew nicoise could be good?) The bread pudding at The Minotaure in Playa del Rey. Thu Nov 30 04:45:39 -0800 2006 2056994 40486 Cinnamon 1 2057660 The plain pastrami-only sandwich, whatever number that is, at Langer's. The split-pea soup at Pann's. I'm still looking for a truly transcendental local manifestation of my favorite minimalist food, the Margherita pizza. Found a couple that were OK, but none that killed me... Pie'n'Burger's cheeseburger comes damned close, if they'd just lighten up on the lettuce. Almost forgot: New Concept's crisp-fried salt pork and greens. So simple, so perfect, so wish I could have some every day... Thu Nov 30 05:47:09 -0800 2006 2056994 11478 Will Owen 1 2057661 The roasted chicken at Corner Cafe in Burbank. The owner claims all she adds is salt and the rotisserie does the rest. Pan fried XLB at Kang Kang food court. An in-n-out cheeseburger. Simplicity itself. Thu Nov 30 05:47:36 -0800 2006 2056994 15848 ozzygee 2 2058597 Ozzy: Tell us more about this CORNER CAFE. Thu Nov 30 17:05:31 -0800 2006 2057661 16985 Gohantabeyoka 3 2058686 It's at the corner of Riverside & Maple in Bbank. They pretty much only sell rotisserie chicken (ala zankou) but it's much better. Consistently juicy and flavorful. I could eat a whole chicken, it's that good. (Zankou's got them beat on the hummous, though. The flavors a little too mild & the consistency is runny, more like a sauce than a side dish.) Thu Nov 30 17:25:14 -0800 2006 2058597 15848 ozzygee 1 2057752 I'll add the "after school special" at Doughboys: tomato soup plus a grilled-cheese sandwich. Dates at AOC. Chili at Chili My Soul. Thu Nov 30 07:24:45 -0800 2006 2056994 50350 SauceSupreme 2 2058304 ooohh, YESSS Chili My Soul!!! Thu Nov 30 15:38:46 -0800 2006 2057752 11201 Diana 1 2057769 soft tofu with a bit of sugar at dim sum. that olive spread with bread at AOC. vanilla bean ice cream and berries in a cookie crust bowl at Spago. Thu Nov 30 07:41:37 -0800 2006 2056994 11006 chica 2 2060309 mmmmmm... dou fu fa, with the ginger syrup. Love it. You can get it at any 99 Ranch in the refrigerated section near the tofu -- the tofu's in a large quart and the ginger syrup's in a separate container stacked on top, the whole thing's wrapped in a plastic sack and it's like $1.50. Fri Dec 01 00:03:45 -0800 2006 2057769 10811 Das Ubergeek 1 2057806 After reading this list, I have to add my local and recent favorite: the beef tenderloin entree at Canele in Atwater Village. Best beef -- well cooked, medium rare (really), tender beef with a side of the best potato side dish (a perfect potatoes anna) and a delectible roasted green veggie with garlic -- I think i was broccoli rabe or the chinese version of broccoli rabe. It was a perfect dinner. Started with a perfect salad (greens with a "creme fraiche vinaigrette which tasted like the green salad you are served in France) and ended with a chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream that had me licking the plate. I want to eat that meal again. Thu Nov 30 09:14:41 -0800 2006 2056994 11028 DanaB 1 2057818 fried tetilla from AOC cauliflower soup at Clementine toro with sesame oil, salt, pepper, and nori (not too hard to come by, but some Japanese restaurants are bad about providing ccertain ingredients) ankimo at Kiriko salads at Doughboys (I know, I know...) orange blossom ice cream at Mashti Malone's sweet potato fries and onion rings at the Bowery a tiny green tea cookie filched from Tortoise, which gets it from Jin Patisserie...it's pretty much all the flour I can handle Thu Nov 30 09:39:42 -0800 2006 2056994 17463 PseudoNerd 2 2058177 where is Mashti Malones? Is it an ice cream shoppe? Thu Nov 30 15:06:41 -0800 2006 2057818 15201 MalibuAly 3 2058249 Google is your friend, 1st listing: http://www.mashtimalone.com/ Mashti Malone's Ice Cream 1525 North La Brea Avenue Los Angeles, California 90028 Toll Free: 1-866-767-3423 Order whatever you like but do be sure to taste some of the herb and/or flower flavors! Thu Nov 30 15:24:41 -0800 2006 2058177 10864 sel 3 2058355 You can find Mashti Malone's at their stores in Hollywood (Sunset/La Brea) or Glendale. I've seen it a couple times in cold cases at specialty food stores, such as the French Market on Abbot Kinney in Venice. However, I suggest going to the store for the fresh product and the sour cherry/sour lemon syrup that goes perfectly with the saffron, ginger, rosewater, and other Persian specialties. Unbelievable. Best ice cream in LA (oh no, I've thrown down the gauntlet and started that whole debate again...) Thu Nov 30 15:55:06 -0800 2006 2058177 13350 glutton 4 2058366 For my last birthdya, my husband made a dark chocolate, white chocolate, milk chocolate chip cookie the size of a platter and topped it with Mashti's ginger rosewater ice cream. YUM!! Thu Nov 30 15:58:03 -0800 2006 2058355 11201 Diana 4 2060313 Just a note... the ice cream is made on La Brea and transported to Glendale. They're not as attentive about refrigeration at Glendale (or, I guess, in the truck) so a lot of it can be melted and refrozen (hello, ice crystals!). La Brea is much, much superior. Fri Dec 01 00:04:48 -0800 2006 2058355 10811 Das Ubergeek 4 2060797 mashti malone's is THE persian ice cream supplier to what seems to me like the entire state of CA. you will find their prepackaged quarts and gallons at most every Persian / Armenian market... I also found Mashti's at all the iranian spots I visited in Nor Cal too. Fri Dec 01 03:42:37 -0800 2006 2058355 11504 amandine 4 2186575 Don't worry - you're standing on solid ground....but... if you get a chance, and if you're in Westwood, try the Persian ice creams at Rose Market... all the standards, plus - cucumber, cantelope, etc.,,, whatever produce is in season that even remotely sound like they could be spun into an ice cream flavor, they will have it. 1922 Westwood Blvd. Sun Jan 14 01:49:50 -0800 2007 2058355 64003 bulavinaka 1 2057821 ~tomato beef chow mein at pheonix ~creme brulee napoleon at parkway grill ~beef double dip american sandwich with a chili straight from Phillipe's ~what i call "footballs" from any good dim sum place ~my moms sloppy joe's ~chocolate bread pudding extra hot from parkway grill ~yes egg salad sammie from europane ~tarte tatin pancakes from Fred 62 Thu Nov 30 09:43:43 -0800 2006 2056994 40036 caitybirdie 2 2058119 I LOVE "footballs"! Thu Nov 30 14:49:27 -0800 2006 2057821 10883 JAB 3 2061099 ok, please tell me you do know. oh that made me so happy. i=they are called (i am completely spelling them wrong) hom sui gok? ohhh, those greasy lil things..... Fri Dec 01 07:58:22 -0800 2006 2058119 40036 caitybirdie 4 2061471 After eating Dim Sum for some 20 + years, the funny thing is that I just learned that they were referred to as "footballs" at Seafood Paradise in Westminster where they along with the rest of the Dim Sum is very good. Previously, I had just pointed to them. Fri Dec 01 15:00:24 -0800 2006 2061099 10883 JAB 5 2062667 Never heard that being referred to as 'football'. I guess that's _American_ football. Literally it means salt water pointy turnover/pastry in chinese, I always just called it salt water dumpling to my hubbie. It's his favorite. Fri Dec 01 21:13:23 -0800 2006 2061471 46671 notmartha 4 2065996 The sort of fried things? Yeah, they're hom sui gok. Sun Dec 03 17:01:42 -0800 2006 2061099 10811 Das Ubergeek 5 2068406 Just remembered there's actually another type of fried dim sum that's football shaped. That's made out of taro root, looked a bit fluffy and I think called foo gok. Hom sui gok is made out of sticky rice dough. Mon Dec 04 17:05:17 -0800 2006 2065996 46671 notmartha 6 2068712 Yes, I don't care for that one myself. It is the same shape as the hom sui gok (football) but, has a crispy flakey outer texture as oppossed to the smooth texture of the hom sui gok. Mon Dec 04 18:20:34 -0800 2006 2068406 10883 JAB 1 2058174 Spicey Rock Shrimp at Nobu Pastrami Bueger at Lucky Boy in Pasadena Anthing at The Hat in Pasadena The Egg and Caviar at Melisse Rack of Lamb at Jiraffe Anything at Go's Sushi in Canoga Park Yogi Tea at the Fig Tree Cafe in Venice Eggs Lulu at the Fig Tree Cafe in Venice Super garlic, tomato, olive oil tampanade at Allegria in Malibu Flourless Chocolate Cake in Vanilla Bean Creme Anglaise at Allegria Double Cheese Burger at In n Out Mac n Cheese at Cafe D'Artiste Dim sum at Empress Pavilion downtown Meatball sandwiches at Bay Cities Italian Deli in Santa Monica Salmon and pineapple salsa tacos at Howdy's in Malibu Harris Ranch Chipotle Marinated Flank Steak at Smart n Final! Thu Nov 30 15:05:52 -0800 2006 2056994 15201 MalibuAly 1 2058183 The curries at Gate of India in Santa Monica Thu Nov 30 15:08:24 -0800 2006 2056994 15201 MalibuAly 1 2058700 The first bites after the dish comes to the table of the Slippery Shrimp at Yang Chow, with a drop or two of chili oil for heat. The al pastor taco or burrito at Carnitas Michaocan on North Broadway at 19th, but only if freshly sliced off of the rotisserie, with their amazingly dusky spicy hot sauce. Thu Nov 30 17:28:24 -0800 2006 2056994 10855 nosh 1 2058913 Grilled Salmon at GERLACH'S GRILL (Pasadena) Sausages with wasabi at SIN BA LA (Arcadia) Cinnamon roll at PIE N BURGER (Pasadena) Abalone sashimi at SEA HARBOUR (Rosemead) Uni and grilled octopus at IKE SUSHI (Hollywood) Garlic fries at JAR (Los Angeles) Grilled cheese sandwiches at CAMPANILE (Los Angeles) Chinese potato salad sandwiches at JJ BAKERY (Arcadia) Thu Nov 30 18:18:27 -0800 2006 2056994 11583 ipsedixit 2 2059176 Ipsedixit, a few questions: Are the sausages the Japanese santokun saugages? Are the Chineses potato salad sandwiches special -in any way- or just a la Yakisoba sandwich (bun and noodle) by Mitsuwa? Thu Nov 30 19:15:32 -0800 2006 2058913 14086 kare_raisu 3 2059202 The sausages at SinBaLa are the Taiwanese variety (香腸). A bit sweet, with a nice snap from the casing. The potato salad sandwiches are a bit different from the Japanese iteration. They are served in a sort of large round, oversized type of hot-dog bun (sort of like what they use for a yakisoba sandwich) and then stuffed with potato salad and usu. then garnished with 1/4 slices of whole eggs. Thu Nov 30 19:21:59 -0800 2006 2059176 11583 ipsedixit 1 2058982 BBQ Beef Ribs at Chris n Pitts - Whittier Location Cajun Potato Salad at Les Sisters Chatsworth BBQ Chicken @ Thai n I - Encino Caldo de Pollo @ Tacos Kenia in Van Nuys Baked Ziti @ Uncle Mikes Pizza in Canoga Park Clam Chowder@ Weiler's Deli (Victory/Woodland Hills) Garlic Shrimp Roll @ Brothers Sushi - Woodland Hills Cappucino Creme Brulee - Rive Gauche Cafe - Sherman Oaks Thu Nov 30 18:34:17 -0800 2006 2056994 12701 davinagr 1 2059008 in no particular order: -dates at aoc; -chicken liver w/ pancetta at aoc; -what I call the "holy trinity" of lotus root, shishito and eggplant in sweet miso at ita-cho; -the murakami salad (now ari-ya sushi); -truffled mac'n'cheese at blair's; -curried garbanzos at joan's on third; -farmhouse tort at la brea bakery; -cherry rustic at la brea bakery; -chicken in mole taco at loteria!; -chicken in pipian rojo taco at loteria!; -ice cream at mashti malone's; -ricotta gnocchi at angeli caffe; -fennel sausage, carmelized onion and fontina pizza at angeli caffe; -roast chicken at angeli caffe; ok, now i'm hungry..... Thu Nov 30 18:40:38 -0800 2006 2056994 18246 cinzia 2 2059336 Ah, the truffled mac & cheese at Blair's - one of my favorites as well. Thu Nov 30 19:52:49 -0800 2006 2059008 17675 Clare K 1 2059702 omg. am i damn hungry now... Thu Nov 30 21:22:27 -0800 2006 2056994 13155 diningdivala 1 2059935 The number 1 at Langers Chiles en Nogada at Babita The asada burrito at Amy's in Pasadena Sausage and garlic pizza at Casa Bianca The margarita at Colombos in Eagle Rock Chicken fried steak at Joes in Redondo Menudo con pata at Alfredos in Lomita Al Pastor burrito at El Gran Burrito Pork ribs at J n J's Thu Nov 30 22:19:05 -0800 2006 2056994 10180 martyR 1 2059960 Oh I almost forgot: The habanero creme fraiche salsa at Malo. Thu Nov 30 22:23:52 -0800 2006 2056994 17675 Clare K 2 2060300 omg...I am in love with this stuff!! I even wrote to the RSVP columns in Bon Appetit and Gourmet to try and get the recipe. Fri Dec 01 00:00:05 -0800 2006 2059960 14798 mellycooks 3 2060314 Pleeeeeeeease let me know if you get it. I have been trying to decipher it myself for a few years now :( Fri Dec 01 00:05:00 -0800 2006 2060300 17675 Clare K 4 2061905 will do Fri Dec 01 17:21:10 -0800 2006 2060314 14798 mellycooks 1 2060258 Chicken tarna wrap at Zankou Langer's Pastrami (just had it for lunch today) yes, the hard shell tacos with cheese from Tito's The Godmother from Bay Cities Deli Matzo ball soup from Fromin's Chicken wings from Pann's Pizza from the Coop Falafel from Sunnin Thu Nov 30 23:46:33 -0800 2006 2056994 11896 NAspy 2 2060865 Is Fromin's Matzo ball soup better than Brent's? I'm hankering for a good bowl! Fri Dec 01 04:24:27 -0800 2006 2060258 11201 Diana 3 2073035 Negative, had it a few weeks ago. Brents is better than Fromins, but not EVEN on par with Weilers (Victory location). Their soup is amazing. I keep touting it, hopefully someone will try it one of these days ;-) Tue Dec 05 21:54:37 -0800 2006 2060865 12701 davinagr 2 2186587 Ah the Godmother - still the standard for great Italian sandwiches... Sun Jan 14 01:52:09 -0800 2007 2060258 64003 bulavinaka 3 2187935 AMEN!! :) --Dommy! Sun Jan 14 17:37:02 -0800 2007 2186587 10659 Dommy 1 2060398 Spaghetti Carbonara, straight up, at Enoteca Drago Anything with Mole at Monte Alban Nigiri at Sushi Zo Double-Double, animal style, at In-n-Out Chicken wings at Furaibo Fri Dec 01 00:35:30 -0800 2006 2056994 10179 BabyLitigator 1 2060798 ooh, kibbeh balls at Sunin Fri Dec 01 03:43:01 -0800 2006 2056994 11504 amandine 1 2061064 Great posts and topic. Major Pavlovian response to this thread. Soboro chicken rice from Yakitori-Ya. I've had the soboro chicken @ multiple other yakitori and robata places in LA and OC. Yakitori-Ya's is the best. Grilled chicken wings from Yakitori-ya. Perfect ratio of crispy skin, salt, and succulent meat. Banana cream pie from Apple Pan. Their best pie there. Bacon-wrapped prunes from Warszawa. Stone pot bibimbap from Young Soon Tofu in San Gabriel. Fri Dec 01 06:57:52 -0800 2006 2056994 19488 apfb 1 2061071 Chupa de camarones at Mario’s Peruvian Bistecca ala fiorentino at Pane e Vino Gnocchi w wild mushroom sauce at La Buca Patty melt at Pann's BLT at Burger Continental Clams w chorizo at The Hungry Cat Grilled seabass at Fisherman’s Outlet Rotisserie chicken at Pollo ala Brasa Fri Dec 01 07:13:43 -0800 2006 2056994 11873 Mr Grub 1 2061098 Fried camembert at Haru Ulala. Fri Dec 01 07:55:02 -0800 2006 2056994 15627 Alimentary My Dear Watson 1 2062096 the entrana at Lala's on melrose. good, simple beef, and fries to soak up the beef juices. mmmm Fri Dec 01 18:10:40 -0800 2006 2056994 24524 Rosiepigs 1 2062649 I was recently reminded that this restaurant is closing soon, so I must make go there and have this dish one more time. The caviar and eggs in egg shells at L'Orangerie. That....and champagne. All the really important food groups....I think. And one of the most beautiful settings anywhere! Fri Dec 01 21:06:52 -0800 2006 2056994 11375 perk 1 2062694 Simple and non-fancy to me means the freshest ingredients, simply prepared, and without a lot of intricate sauces and condiments. Onion pancakes at Earthen In-N-Out protein style double double Jook Rice noodle wraps at dim sum places Chinese style steamed fish Second those string beans at Din Tai Fung Beef & Tendon noodles at Supreme Dragon Any pho from any Vietnamese places Chinese roast duck My most recent pure bliss moment for the simplest of all dishes - a pastrami sandwich at Katz's Deli NYC. Fri Dec 01 21:21:48 -0800 2006 2056994 46671 notmartha 2 2065999 You can get those rice noodle wraps (they're called cheung fun) frozen at 99 Ranch -- they're not quite to the level of a dim sum palace but they do in a pinch when you don't want to drive and wait! Sun Dec 03 17:02:59 -0800 2006 2062694 10811 Das Ubergeek 3 2068400 Driving to a 99 Ranch and to a dim sum place is about the same distance for me, so I'll rather do the dim sum. I also like the non-stuffed cheung fun from the bakery section of the 99 Ranch (just plain with dry shrimps). Still very good with hoisin sauce and sweetened soy sauce. Mon Dec 04 17:03:49 -0800 2006 2065999 46671 notmartha 1 2062821 The grilled cheese sandwich at Lucques...served after 9:30 at the bar. Perhaps one of the best things I have ever put in my mouth! Fri Dec 01 22:08:36 -0800 2006 2056994 28605 BrookieStyles 1 2062933 For veeeerrry simple dishes more like the Porto's potato ball; snacks, I guess...my faves are: --spring rolls at Giang Nan: molten lava in a tube. --samosas and "patties" at Indias Sweets & Spices: spicy and flavorful...I like 'em straight, no chutney. --laaaaaarge fries at The Hat: dinner for four. --refried beans, chips & salsa at Tito's (hate away): lunch for $1.35. --potato balls at Venice's Bakery (10943 Venice Blvd): may not be Porto's, but it's on the Westside. --empenada's at Coppelia's Bakery (10829 Venice Blvd): flaky, tasty, savory. --Glutinous Rice & Chicken parcels at CBS: lotus-y goodness. --chicken kebab at Sham: juicy, garlicky...and the sauce, oh, the sauce. --Thai sausages at Wat Thai: especially fresh off the grill. --Turnip/Radish cakes (luobuogao): Ocean Star, et al. Fri Dec 01 22:53:49 -0800 2006 2056994 20545 yclops 2 2183688 NO WAY!! I didn't know El Camaguey had potato balls... I am going to bike on over this weekend!! :) WHEE!!! :) --Dommy! Sat Jan 13 00:33:30 -0800 2007 2062933 10659 Dommy 1 2063326 Enchiladas Del Mar at Zumaya's in Uptown Whittier. Enchiladas Del Mar are Shrimp stuffed Enchiladas covered with a wonderfully rich, smokey and very spice Chipotle sauce. I've been going there for years and when I walk in they already know what I'm going to order. Sat Dec 02 02:06:48 -0800 2006 2056994 56791 Cali 1 2063356 Soft Shell crabs at The Ivy Sat Dec 02 02:23:32 -0800 2006 2056994 54736 BonnieG 1 2063401 The beef roll (niu rou juan) at 101 dumpling express in Alhambra. Sat Dec 02 02:51:01 -0800 2006 2056994 10366 Jerome 2 2070489 Jerome, you haven't steered me wrong yet so I traveled to 101 Noodle Express today for lunch. Ordered the Beef Roll and it was really tasty. Not like anything that I've ever had before so I have no basis for comparison regarding this dish in other venues. The waitress was pushing soup as well and strongly suggested the hot and sour soup and even though I usually prefer a beef and tendon noodle soup I agreed. It was ok but next time I'll order differently! Other diners seemed to have dumplings and noodle soups in addition to the beef rolls. What should I try on my next trip which will most likely be this week? 101 Noodle Express 1408 E. Valley Blvd. Alhambra, CA (626) 300-8654 Tue Dec 05 02:57:28 -0800 2006 2063401 10864 sel 3 2073257 Unfortunately, many places have waitstaff that recommend things they're sure people will like that aren't all that good. Once at Best Szechwan, I'd broken through a bit with the waitress, we were speaking mandarin, and she started pushing a particular dish. I said that we really didn't want the dish, and she continued by saying that my friends, non-Chinese (as am I), would like this dish, Americans like this dish. I pointed out that I'm an american and didn't really like it, and she said I should trust her, Americans like the dish. what're you going to do? Anyway, the dumplings are great there. The pumpkin/shrimp dumpling, the wild vegetable dumpling, the new sole dumpling all very good. You can get a plate of two kinds by asking for the combo plate - and then choose two kinds for the plate. The beef and tendon soup is good there. I wouldn't get hot and sour soup at a shandong place like 101 noodle express. The other specialty (not everyone's fave) is the Dezhou braised chicken - it's the thing that brought me there, they had huge characters advertising it on the storefront. This chicken is highly regarded in china, they vacuum pack it and ship it all over (not101, but industrial concerns in Dezhou). Give it a try. Tue Dec 05 22:43:26 -0800 2006 2070489 10366 Jerome 4 2073509 Before pointing out to the waitress that you, in addition to being non-Chinese, were "american," you should have added that the chinese here are american, too. :) Wed Dec 06 00:00:38 -0800 2006 2073257 11006 chica 5 2073647 possibly - some were and some weren't. but good point. Wed Dec 06 00:46:56 -0800 2006 2073509 10366 Jerome 1 2063526 Wonton noodle with beef and beef tendon at Sam Woo in the San Gabriel Mall Rock shrimp tempura at Asanebo Fried calamari at Antica Pizzeria Fried chicken knee at Sea Harbor Combination of sauteed shrimp, Peng-styled tofu, and Giang Nan stir-fry at Giang Nan Hickory burger with cheese at the Apple Pan Crab salad at R-23 Potato salad and lobster bisque at the Kitchen for Exploring Foods Shanghai XLB at Mei Long Village Combination of pot sticker and hot and sour soup at Chinatown's Mandarin Deli Sat Dec 02 04:27:33 -0800 2006 2056994 11675 judge dee 2 2069950 What's the fried chicken knee? I am guessing that's not the chicken feet dim sum (braised reddish) nor the white cooked? Mon Dec 04 23:29:57 -0800 2006 2063526 46671 notmartha 3 2069999 No, they're little fried nuggets. Tasty if you don't mind extracting tiny chicken kneecaps from each mouthful, which I did mind after the first few. Mon Dec 04 23:44:05 -0800 2006 2069950 12460 Chowpatty 4 2070763 As soon as I saw "chicken knee" I knew it had to be a Chinese -- and probably Cantonese -- place. Tue Dec 05 05:04:02 -0800 2006 2069999 10811 Das Ubergeek 5 2071759 Thanks for the explanation. That's different - I'll have to try it. Still haven't got the courage to try the foie gras dumpling at Sea Harbour. Well, chinese/cantonese doesn't have the market cornered on odd food, but I have to say chicken knees don't strike me normally as something edible (too boney)?! Tue Dec 05 16:59:10 -0800 2006 2070763 46671 notmartha 6 2072221 martha: Oh my God! Foie gras dumplings?? Where is Sea Harbour? Tue Dec 05 18:40:55 -0800 2006 2071759 11923 Liquid Sky 7 2072570 Off Rosemead exit, on 10 freeway. 3939 Rosemead Blvd Rosemead, CA 91770 Technically speaking the chinese dimsum menu said 'goose liver' dumplings. It's about $15 or so (can't remember), so I am guessing it's foie gras due to price, not just ordinary goose liver. Tue Dec 05 20:09:17 -0800 2006 2072221 46671 notmartha 8 2075094 Thanks, Martha! Wed Dec 06 16:31:04 -0800 2006 2072570 11923 Liquid Sky 1 2063941 French martini at the Chalet in Eagle Rock The arugula salad at Briganti in South Pasadena Chana Masala at Akbar in Pasadena Veggie Burger at the Counter in Santa Monica Vegetarian delight platter at Carousel in Glendale vegetarian burrito (with black beans) at Taco Spot in Eagle Rock Sweet Potato Fries at Spitz in Eagle Rock ravioli at giovanni's in Culver City brownie's at Essential Chocolate in Culver City light roast coffee at Swork in Eagle Rock french toast at Auntie Em's in Eagle Rock french vanilla frozen yogurt with rasberries and chocolate shavings mixed in at 21 choices in Pasadena Sat Dec 02 14:30:08 -0800 2006 2056994 18731 amie32 1 2064620 mouhamara at Marouch....also their little sausages with cloves.... oxtain terrine at Bistro K...anything with organ meats at Bistro K.... Sat Dec 02 20:53:12 -0800 2006 2056994 14859 George 1 2065580 Pineapple fried rice @ Swan - Thai on Sherman Way Second the Carbonara @ Enoteca Drago Scallop sushi @ Azami Tsukune (chicken meatballs) @ Koshiji Chili dog @ Pink's Pistacchio gelato @ Al Gelato Cheesecake @ Amandine Chocolate souffle @ Off Vine Shio-ramen @ Santouka Reuben @ Brent's deli Beard Papa's cream puffs!!!!!! Sun Dec 03 10:15:43 -0800 2006 2056994 25166 alexfood 1 2066391 Fries at Skooby's, the drunken shrimp at Tidal Wave, animal fries well-done at In N Out and anything at Mozzarella Mondays at Jar. I've got some serious munchies from this thread... Sun Dec 03 20:24:29 -0800 2006 2056994 50744 sebastianxx 1 2066603 pork chop with polenta and greens-canalle sausage and cheddar grits-auntie em's kitchen strauss dairy chocolate ice cream Sun Dec 03 22:00:37 -0800 2006 2056994 21497 sambrown3 1 2067014 The corned beef and cabbage at the LA Farmer's Market. No sauce, no oil. Just plain corned beef with fresh minced horseradish and steamed cabbage. Yum. Mon Dec 04 01:38:22 -0800 2006 2056994 57444 la.sf.la 2 2068797 That's at Magee's, I'm assuming. I have not had the CB and cabbage just because I can't stay away from their sandwiches! That's easily the best corned-beef sandwich I've ever had, and their potato salad and coleslaw are PDG as well. Mon Dec 04 18:41:54 -0800 2006 2067014 11478 Will Owen 1 2067543 Chinese Butter Noodle at Yardhouse. Mon Dec 04 06:42:03 -0800 2006 2056994 23909 david t. 1 2067589 The tomato soup from Clementine Rare roast beef sandwich and tuna melt from Clementine Profiteroles from Spago G6 roll from Hamasaku Spaghettini de la casa from Vito on Ocean Park Chocolate chip strawberry pancakes from Jinkys Burger in a Bowl at the Counter Spicy chopped tuna salad at Nagao Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Mon Dec 04 07:34:30 -0800 2006 2056994 11021 cupcake 1 2068176 smashed pea and barley soup - any CPK location grilled chicken skin - haru ulala red miso soup - izayoi slice of white pizza - mulberry st. pizza al pastor burrito - cactus tacqueria shio ramen level 3, with egg and extra cha-siu - orochon ramen Mon Dec 04 15:58:13 -0800 2006 2056994 26154 jaydee 1 2070040 I really like the cognac flambee'd Tomato Bisque at Soleil on westwood blvd. Its so tantalizingly rich and piquant. It helps that they serve it in a small shallow bowl for $8... cause then I can never get enough to completely satisfy my craving at one sitting! It sooo good that i started a quest to make it myself. Although I have made some really popular versions, the real deal still eludes me. Awesome with Poutine Christine and a glass of rose wine on a cold, gloomy day!!! Tue Dec 05 00:00:22 -0800 2006 2056994 57506 krushdnasty 1 2071402 I have not lived in LA for three years, so when I visit at Xmas these are the places I head directly for: Soft Tostada at J&S - Montebello Chili Fries at The Hat - Alhambra Pastrami Burrito at OkiDog - LA Pico Chicken Tarna at Zankou - Pasadena Red Cabbage Salad & Cheesebread at Clearman's Galley - San Gabriel Breakfast Burrito at Lucky Boy's - Pasadena Chili Tamale at Tommy's - LA Rib's at Bahooka's - San Gabriel Bulgogi at The Corner Place - LA Three more weeks! You guys don't know how good you have it. Of course, I usually gain 10 pounds after visiting! Tue Dec 05 15:10:23 -0800 2006 2056994 57773 caje 2 2073230 LOVE the Corner Place. the dong-chi-mi gook-soo (cold noodles) there are one of a kind! Tue Dec 05 22:36:49 -0800 2006 2071402 26657 bijoux16 1 2072827 Everyone... stop it! Please stop it! (._. ) SABROSO GUACACHIP Guacamole Tortilla Chips "The dip's in the chips." Marukai Market, Gardena. Tue Dec 05 21:11:22 -0800 2006 2056994 16985 Gohantabeyoka 1 2073242 Wow. I'm hungry. All great mentions here. Can't think of any right now except for: Tuna tofu caprese at Mori Dong chi mi noodles at Corner Place Tue Dec 05 22:39:54 -0800 2006 2056994 13851 MeowMixx 1 2073631 Chicken fingers w/ranch @ Red Robin Go-Go taquitos @ 7-11 Chicken Bake Sandwich @ Costco Big Mac @ McDonalds Wed Dec 06 00:42:36 -0800 2006 2056994 57958 Al Gore mand 1 2073669 love the thread... and so my take on "simple" is that i will at some point even attempt (i am a terrible cook!) making a version of whatever it is at home... shepard's pie at ye ole king's head in santa monica soboro don at yakitoriya Wed Dec 06 00:52:14 -0800 2006 2056994 11743 banquisha 1 2074364 yea the soboro don is GOOD also, I must add, Chopped Salad from La Scala French toast from City Bakery Wed Dec 06 06:35:37 -0800 2006 2056994 11351 yum 1 2085463 -- Absolutely a Chopped Salad at La Scala! -- Slippery Shrimp at Yang Chow, also the green beans w/ minced pork -- Praline square (with homemade tahitian vanilla bean ice cream and hot fudge sauce) at Ivy at the Shore -- CPK Potato-Leek soup -- Nate n' Al's chopped chicken liver and the best whitefish salad EVER! -- Fried chicken at Angelena's (now in Alhambra) -- and there is or was a cold shrimp appetizer at Prego in Beverly Hills, with feta, olive oil and lime juice that knocks me out, especially rolling those long skinny breadsticks in the marinated feta mush ... YUMMY Sat Dec 09 22:58:36 -0800 2006 2056994 58811 2yummy 1 2088165 wow, i can't believe nobody mentioned the pasta dishes (the sauce!!!) at al gelato. Mon Dec 11 05:30:26 -0800 2006 2056994 16200 greengelato 1 2091747 Tuna melt sandwich at Clementine. The best ever. Tue Dec 12 07:41:25 -0800 2006 2056994 54022 pastahound 1 2096547 Perhaps not haute cuisine but: Baseball Steak - HMS Bounty Blueberry Pancakes - Pacific Dining Car Korean Fried Chicken - The Prince Hot Turkey sandwich - Musso and Franks Caprese Salad - Miceli's Any Pizza - Patsy D'Amore's in Farmers market Wed Dec 13 18:24:25 -0800 2006 2056994 14131 Paliau 1 2096828 The mussels and a Chimay at Crepe and Vine in Old Pasadena. The perfect comfort food. Wed Dec 13 19:26:32 -0800 2006 2056994 41491 gordita 1 2107948 I'd like to add the club sandwich at Joan's on Third. Sun Dec 17 22:26:24 -0800 2006 2056994 50350 SauceSupreme 1 2108013 Bread products: Biscuits at John O'Groats Flour tortillas at Paco's Dessert: Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding at Pinot Bistro Peanut butter cookie at Clementine Sandwich: Caprese at Bay Cities Quiche: Josie's amuse bouche (I always want more!) Sun Dec 17 23:04:06 -0800 2006 2056994 59753 Epicure 1 2108019 Best entree of 2006: venison with foie gras at Boneyard Bistro in Sherman Oaks. Best appetizer of 2006: Croque Madame at Hatfield's on Beverly. Best lunch item of 2006: Chile relleno burrito at Tere's Mexican Grill on Melrose & Cahuenga. Sun Dec 17 23:08:08 -0800 2006 2056994 10359 carter 1 2108720 Lobster roll at Azami Uni/squid at Zo Turkey burger at MCafe Som tum thai at RedCornerAsia Oysters at Hungry Cat (++ cocktail or two) Shrimp & broccoli at Mako Turkey/avocado sammich at Auntie Em's Ceviche at El Siete Mares Chloe's Shrimp at New Moon Shiitake, oyster 'shroom and feta omelette at Square One Grilled Ono & Wild Salmon at Fish King Mon Dec 18 05:30:28 -0800 2006 2056994 18051 cobalt 1 2177983 all time faves: oatmeal raison cookies at Au Bon Pain seafood gumbo, corn bread, green salad and iced tea at Gumbo Pot at Farmer's Market cafe con leche and a piece of guava cheese pie at Cafe Tropical on Sunset raspberry muffin at Europane bacon burger at Lucky Boy on Colorado Rick's french fries Thu Jan 11 18:40:02 -0800 2007 2056994 55281 TastELA 1 2178143 Amazing list, folks, to which I'll add just one thing. Run, don't walk to buy a dozen.... -little round baklava from Ara's Pastry on Hollywood Blvd. I'm talking about the horseshoe shaped ones that are about as big as the bottom of a soda can. You will thank me. Thu Jan 11 19:06:35 -0800 2007 2056994 66081 TutorTed 2 2182669 must try that. I've been a panos man from way back but I'll give it a go. Fri Jan 12 20:03:20 -0800 2007 2178143 10366 Jerome 1 2178268 This is far from gourmet, and I'm sure it's really bad for you, but I have a new favorite (which I can only get once in a while): Fried Curry Bread at Famima!! plus a few I'd forgotten: Beef Carpaccio at Il Fornaio Roasted turkey breast sandwich at Europane Spicy tuna on crispy rice at Koi Thu Jan 11 19:31:16 -0800 2007 2056994 17675 Clare K 1 2178626 Great posts. Here's mine for starters: Pastrami on rye at Brent's Grilled fish tacos from Sharky's Costco Hot Dogs (can't beat a Polish dog and drink for $1.60) All the grilled fish at the Reel Inn in Malibu (PCH/Topanga) Tuna melt at Fromin's in Encino (they know how to do it) Chopin potato vodka martini from anyplace that has Chopin's. Thu Jan 11 20:43:06 -0800 2007 2056994 65821 Golem 2 2183178 1) A tender Ojo Argentinian steak with a side of garlic fries at CARLITOS GARDEL (Melsore); 2) Fresh crab and avocado hand roll from AZAMI SUSHI (Melrose); 3) Fresh avocado and portobello mushroom wrap from TULA'S CAFE next to the Beverly Garland Hotel(North Hollywood/Studio City); 4) Spicy basil duck AND spicy basil eggplant at GALANGA Thai Fusion (Santa Monica Blvd) Fri Jan 12 21:59:53 -0800 2007 2178626 11923 Liquid Sky 3 2186565 You like the ojo better than the lomo(filet) done with the chimichurri sauce, huh?! Have to try it next time. And, yes, the garlic fries qualify as the best side dish as I see it. Sun Jan 14 01:46:40 -0800 2007 2183178 10359 carter 4 2195703 The great waiter at Carlitos recommended the ojo. It was so incredibly tender. With a nice malbec to wash it down with. Had no room for the desserts!! Tue Jan 16 22:59:24 -0800 2007 2186565 11923 Liquid Sky 1 2184229 Bachelor toast for breakfast at Caoti in Studio City. Toast with a fried egg embedded in the center. Yummy. Sat Jan 13 04:09:25 -0800 2007 2056994 66535 teach 1 2184528 Hotate sushi at Mori Ramen at Daikokuya Blueberry pancakes at Marston's Macarons (lemon, malted milk chocolate or pistachio) at Boule Congee with chicken at Mission 261 Galbi and oyster tofu combo at Young Dong Garden Lobster cocktail at The Lobster Seiro soba at Otafuku Sat Jan 13 07:41:37 -0800 2007 2056994 23617 duplex 1 2184551 Steamed Fingerling Potatoes with Creme Fraiche and Chives at AOC Emmenthal Bread at Breadbar Fatoush Salad at Sunin Burrata Salad at La Terza Sat Jan 13 08:03:28 -0800 2007 2056994 23526 kproq323 1 2184642 Caramel Chomeur at Chez Mimi Sat Jan 13 10:50:39 -0800 2007 2056994 11193 cvc 1 2186620 Wow - great lists! Okay - just a couple but I don't think I saw these mentioned: Anything from Sweet Lady Jane on Melrose, but just had a slice of the Bread Pudding with Bananas coated in dark chocolate for dessert last night - Wow! Great especially with the weather cooling off. Talk about a simple dessert with a nice twist... Cream Puffs from Patisserie Chantilly in Lomita. Another seemingly simple item that this place makes so well... I can't get it out of my mind... Sun Jan 14 02:02:13 -0800 2007 2056994 64003 bulavinaka 1 2196073 Blueberry ricotta pancakes at BLD Wed Jan 17 00:49:08 -0800 2007 2056994 67357 BitBoy