Echo Park - good midrange recommendation?

[Vaya Con Carne]

Meeting up with some friends for this weekend and it looks like we'll be a group of omnivores, chicken-and-fish-only-eaters, and maybe 1 vegetarian.

We'd like to meet somewhere in Echo Park - originally the plan was to go to Fifteen, but the status of that place seems questionable right now.

Given the parameters of no vegan/vegetarian-only, no sushi, and no Italian, what else is there that's worth checking out in the area? I've been exiled to the westside for a while now, so I'm a bit out of the loop as to what's happening east of La Brea.

Thanks!

[Alex250]

I had two excellent meals at LOCAL on Sunset, and I highly recommend this restaurant. They have chicken, fish and vegetarian options. No liquor license, so bring your own.

[kevin]

no beef at local, though and it's count service, so perhaps you'll save some doughs on formal tips in these recessionary times. speaking of which how much do you all tip, when it comes to order at the counter type of places?

[Alex250]

LOCAL has waiter service when you sit on the patio.

[lotta_cox]

This I did not know. With counter service, I usually tip 10%.

[Cubancoffee]

We have eaten at Masa on Sunset a couple of times and found it satisfying. The menu is tilted toward pizza/Italian fare, though not exclusively, and I believe there are several vegetarian options.

[lotta_cox]

Masa serves the best salade nicoise I have ever had anywhere, ever. Anywhere.

[lotta_cox]

Park on Sunset. Ate their recently and had a delicious polenta and portobello mushroom, but they also had steak, chicken and fish on the menu.

[Vaya Con Carne]

Thanks, that would be perfect. If 15 is indeed open we'll go there, but I'm glad there's an alternative!

[Emily227]

15, is in fact, open. They closed briefly for a remodel and will be changing names in a few weeks, but it is currently open as 15. Now they are more of an "international tapas/small-plate" menu. Everything was delicious and I think you'll find plenty of great options for everyone.

[Vaya Con Carne]

Good to know, thanks for reporting back!

[kevin]

you can also try Lot 1 cafe, althought th ey don't have the famous chef there anymore.

[lotta_cox]

FYI. on Lot 1. No liquor license and they do not allow BYOB. Park allows BYOB, no corkage.