65402 Wed Dec 29 23:33:23 -0800 2004 5 2 Los Angeles Area 0 352392 Decided to go very simple on NYE and we're looking for a place where we can have a few dishes and drinks before heading out to the rest of the NYE festivities. Would love to try AOC, but will save that for another occassion where we arent as rushed to get somewhere, so that also rules out Cobras and Matadors on Hollywood (service was very slow the last time I went). So I'd like to stay somewhere between WEHO and Silverlake, any suggestions? Or does it look like Cha Cha Cha is my only choice? Ive also been to Minibar and thought the portions were extremely tiny and the drinks were weak, so Im ruling out that place as well. Wed Dec 29 23:33:23 -0800 2004 0 Bassbiz 1 352403 You might try the new restaurant on Sunset in Silverlake, Cliff's Edge. They have several "small plates" as well as regular entrees and salads, soups, etc. on the menu. Very nice space, very reasonable prices, and the food is really pretty good, especially for the price and ambiance. Not sure if they have a NYE dinner going on, but even if they do, there's a bar and a large patio (assuming the recent deluge doesn't continue!), so they might be able to accomodate your party. Cliff's Edge 3626 Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90026 Cross Street: Edgecliffe Drive Phone: (323) 666-6116 Thu Dec 30 01:20:33 -0800 2004 352392 0 DanaB 2 352661 Thanks for the tips. I didnt even know about Cliff's Edge but definetly planning on going when it warms up a bit outside! Meson G is abit over the price range for this evening so we're going simple and heading over to Rambutan Thai. I love that place! Fri Dec 31 19:10:34 -0800 2004 352403 0 bassbiz 1 352443 How about Meson G, in former Citrus/Alex space on Melrose? You can tailor your meal to whatever you want it to be; lots of small plates or just a few to share. If they are booked, there's a nice bar and lounge (very cool room) where you can nosh and drink. I thought the food was fantastic when I went, though I know some hounds don't agree. And I heard that after the first few weeks, the chef was aware of complaints about too expensive/too small portions and attempted to address that (lower prices, up the portions), but I haven't been back to gauge. I love the room, very festive. Thu Dec 30 11:14:29 -0800 2004 352392 0 Star 2 352493 Opinions on this board have been mixed, but, like star, I love the place, as it gives you many options for noshing, to whatever level you care to. Eddie in the bar is a great find, both food and wine-wise, so do not hesitate even if the place is booked, as the bar is fine for what you are looking for. If you read SIV's review in the Times on Wednesday, I am sure you felt the same. Just go and you will be surprised just how fun, good, and enjoyable the place can be. The place is very stylish, so jeans need not apply. Go dressed up to go somewhere else and you will really fit in. Thu Dec 30 14:38:16 -0800 2004 352443 0 carter 1 352453 Or, you can go anywhere that has a whole long list of appetizers you like, and make your meal out of that (I've done it often, because often the appetizers are more interesting than the entrees). Xiomara, on Melrose, is an option, although service can be on the slower side at times. I can't think of any other places off the top of my head.. Thu Dec 30 12:04:50 -0800 2004 352392 0 jacinthe