If given a $200 gift certificate...

[depeche818]

If given a $200 gift certificate to go toward a "I wouldn't normally go here myself" type of restaurant, meaning, I don't really want to shell out more than $50-$100 of my own cash for dinner for two (perhaps 3), where would you guys and girls pick?

My company is congratulating me for being here 3 years by a $200 gift certificate to any restaurant I want to pick.

So far, I have

-Patina
-The Little Door
-Cut
-Saddle Peak Lodge
-Sona
-Jar
-Hatfields
-Angelini Osteria
-Opaque

On my list. Any experiences good or bad with any restaurant on the list is very appreciated... I'd like a place that has food that is probably pricey but "worth it" (Good portions, service, not just good because it's the "in" place)

[bodie]

If you like seafood then I would put Providence at the top of your list or maybe Tama, Asanebo or another top Japanese place.
Lucques and AOC would be good additions as well.
Also, just my 2 cents but I think Opus isn't all that good though a good value for the amount they serve in their tasting menus.

[russkar]

We were just at Opus a couple of days ago and the Six Course TM was the Best Ever, Chef Josef is nailing it!

[chica]

It depends on what kind of food you like. The ones you list are very diverse from each other. For example, my first choice would be CUT...but then, I doubt that unless you don't get the steaks, you will not get out under 200 (plus drinks) there for two people. Plus, it would be considered an "in" place...

But, if you love Italian, Angelini Osteria is by far my first choice there for delicious food, generous portions, wonderful staff & manager, and general convivial ambiance with other diners.

If you like game or have never tried it before, then head to Saddle Peak Lodge for a taste of elk, buffalo, quail, cornish game hen, etc..in a unique LA hunting lodge setting.

For something really romantic, then The Little Door will suit you - dine under the stars in dim lighting, but the tables are really close to each other. Service, however, is friendly. Food isn't outstanding, but the setting makes up for it.

If you really want to bring three people along, of your list, I think Angelini would best fit the bill. Another Italian place that has the same sincere staff and generous portions of delicious food is Vincenti in Brentwood, as well as ICugini.

Or, you could use the certificate toward three (or four) prixe-fixe dinners at Roy's, and have an ample number of drinks!

[Cinnamon]

Don't know about the others but do enjoy Saddle Peak quite a bit. To stretch the GC, you could opt for their pretty cool Sunday brunch there... it's partly outdoors and a really nice venue. If you're hankering for game, this is it. If you're a vegetarian, umm, no.

I particularly like the squab (pigeon, kind of red-meat, my favorite bird now, very tender) and a lot of people like the elk. Bunches else to choose from.

[David Kahn]

If it were me, both Josie and Grace would make the list. (On the other hand, Patina and the Saddle Peak Lodge would not.)

[whatsfordinner]

I totally agree with David.

[revets2]

have not been to SPL in some time, but agree with David on PATINA. there on SATURDAY. horrible, just horrible.

think about PROVIDENCE too.

actually, if i really wanted to celebrate my 3rd year, i'd get a gift certificate to one of the future locations of the 5x5 dinners. that way you get PROVIDENCE, ORTOLAN, MELISSE, VALENTINO, and WATER GRILL in the same dinner! problem solved!

[mollyomormon]

If you're planning to take 3, I'd suggest Opus to get the most bang for your buck. You could each get the 6 course tasting menu (which after recent changes should run you about 60 per person give or take). You'd still have to shell out at little bit of your money after tax and tip, but it would be a great way for 3 people to get to try this awesome restaurant.

[wilafur]

good call!! =)

[revets2]

2nd the motion.