79653 Tue Mar 14 20:08:29 -0800 2006 39 2 Los Angeles Area 0 440094 In lieu of a joint vacation we had been planning, a friend and I have decided to embark on a culinary tour of Los Angeles, using all of the money we would have for the vacation. My friend is a pastry cook and personal chef. She has a week and I want to show her a bit of everything, high and low. Thus far I have reservations to Lucques' annual cassoulet night and a special 4 course bacon themed menu at Sona. I also plan on going to A.O.C. (one of my personal favorites). Also on the list: Beacon and Joan's on 3rd. We will spend one day in the San Gabriel Valley and one in Boyle Heights/East LA for Chinese and Mexican cuisine. I'm overwhelmed! I need recommendations. Where are the restaurants where dishes, presentation and/or technique unique to Los Angeles are to be found? I'm considering: Saddle Peak Lodge Grace Melisse Dakota Josie's...Chowhound thoughts? And I desperately need direction to Mexican restaurants. Also any unusual cookware, cookbook, spice stores, and groceries. Apologies for the length of this post and many thanks! Todd Tue Mar 14 20:08:29 -0800 2006 0 Todd HG 1 440104 I didn't see any sushi on your list, which might indicate a decision to stay away from sushi. But it would strike me as difficult to do the "definitive" LA without having sushi somewhere. The sushi omakase lunch at Kiriko on Sawtelle is exceptional -- salad, soup, 10 pieces of sushi (usually 9 pieces of high-quality nigiri and 1 blue crab roll), and homemade ice cream (the black sesame is fantastic). It also is very reasonable for what you get at $29.50. Tue Mar 14 20:22:03 -0800 2006 440094 0 Jess 2 440119 IMO, for sushi/sashimi, Kiriko is the best. Orris is not to be missed, sit at the counter, order anything and you will be happy. Service is exceptional. Saddlepeak Lodge is amazing, on a warm night, sit outside. The rack of elk is so good. And the brunch on weekends is really good as well. I loved the crab cakes with smoked tomato sauce. Tue Mar 14 21:27:23 -0800 2006 440104 0 budlit 2 440332 No, it wasn't an intentional omission, sushi that is. I just am not at all familiar with it. What are your thoughts on Matsuhisa? We know sushi costs, and we are spending our entire trip budget on food. Wed Mar 15 17:06:24 -0800 2006 440104 0 Todd HG 3 440348 There are so many sushi options in LA. But, here's my take on Matsuhisa - I love it. Friendly people, good food. It's pricey, but it's good. Caviar-topped toro, melt-in-your-mouth black cod, Peruvian tiradito, rock shrimp. Fresh sorbets, and also decadent chocolate in the bento box. chica j Wed Mar 15 17:23:38 -0800 2006 440332 0 cj 1 440105 May I suggest going to Lucques on a regular night to experience the full menu? While I love the Annual Cassoulet Night (I plan to be there of course!), Lucques is one of my favorite places in LA and I think your chef friend would really enjoy the wonderful menu that Suzanne Goin has put together. Tue Mar 14 20:28:56 -0800 2006 440094 0 Ingrid 2 440330 Maybe we will go twice! I recently went to Lucques and our main course--halibut with purple artichokes and fingerling potatoes and braised short-ribs--came out extremely salty. I was surprised, because I love A.O.C. Was it a fluke? Wed Mar 15 17:03:46 -0800 2006 440105 0 Todd HG 1 440106 Cookware and Spices: Definitely check out Le Sanctuarie on Main Street (cross is Navy I think) in Santa Monica. They have a lot of stuff, its REALLY pricy there and very high end. Penzy's in Torrance for Spices. Maybe Surfas' new store....that's pretty cool. Tue Mar 14 20:31:53 -0800 2006 440094 0 Xericx 2 440327 Thank you! I've never heard of or read about Penzy's. I will definitely do some reconnaissance. Wed Mar 15 17:01:22 -0800 2006 440106 0 Todd HG 3 440342 Here's some web pages for the places: http://www.le-sanctuaire.com/ http://www.penzeys.com/cgi-bin/penzeys/shophome.html https://www.surfasonline.com/company/index.cfm Wed Mar 15 17:15:45 -0800 2006 440327 0 Xericx 4 440677 Many thanks! I'm very excited about Penzy's and my friend has already mentioned Le Sanctuaire. Thu Mar 16 19:21:16 -0800 2006 440342 0 Todd HG 3 440426 Penzey's is fantastic. i ordered all my spices from them online (www.penzeys.com). The Torrance store is their first in our area --- i am going tomorrow to stock up...won't buy spices anywhere else since I learned about it from a cook-friend! Wed Mar 15 20:10:59 -0800 2006 440327 0 trubee 1 440110 The Cook's Library is a must for cook books. Cook's Library (323) 655-3141 8373 W 3rd St Los Angeles, CA 90048 Also, Boule is a very good pastry shop. Link: http://boulela.com/ Tue Mar 14 20:41:09 -0800 2006 440094 0 Sue V. 1 440126 Japanese small plates at Haru Ulala in Little Tokyo (downtown L.A.) Mexican fish tacos at Tacos Baja Ensenada (last word spelled Encenada in some listings) in East L.A. Babita (San Gabriel?) is often cited here as the finest Mexican restaurant in Southern California, but I haven't been. (Likewise, I haven't been to El Parian, a more downscale Mexican place in downtown, but apparently the carnitas, asada and birria are amazing.) Tue Mar 14 22:11:57 -0800 2006 440094 0 Ted 1 440131 I have some reviews below, including all but Dakota. Here's a recent post of mine, and I've added a few things: Pasadena - The Huntington Ritz Carlton Restaurant - the restaurant is unbeknownst by most people, hiding out in an upscale Pasadena/San Marino neighborhood, but a true jewel, and one of the most romantic dining experiences. The chef has experience from all over the world and brings a diversity of tastes to his dishes. Also, if you have time, take a stroll in its gardens. Many weddings take place here. La Cienega area: Campanile: Yes, the chefs come out and greet you - they create dishes with food from the local farmer's market so you know it's always fresh. The grilled cheese night, along with the fact that the chef will tailor to your dieting needs (ie I didn't eat lamb, so he changed the tasting menu dish to scallops instead) show that they can also accomodate for your children's food. Also, excellent wine selection. Grace is also another good place; the chef, Neal Fraser, is the only American chef who won the Iron Chef Award. He, along with the pastry chef, are masters of their art. Pork belly, seafood, cheese plate. They're even willing to come out and make sure your food is just right! Also good wine. Don't forget the donut dessert. L'Orangerie: It's one of THE most romantic places in town. High ceilings, chandelier-like lighting, candles, tall flower arrangements, white linen. The food- foie gras, corona beer granita (hehe), caviared eggs, chocolate souffle (it's higher than most). The owner walks around and greets all the patrons. They also have a grand piano. West LA: La Cachette - hidden among some residential apartments, it is truly a king among real French food in LA. Salmon carpaccio with caviar and other likes of fresh fish... Another French place is Melisse in Santa Monica - the chef is a former surfer, he's trained at Patina, and the food is also as French as LA can get. Fish prepared tableside, lobster (done in a very unique fashion, and mouth watering good), etc. Josie: Great great dishes. Imagine, cuttlefish in a salad! Great desserts, too - bananas foster done in a hot, unique way; creme brulee 3 ways. Beverly Hills - In my experience, the best restaurants are found here. Spago - number one, hands down the best. And it's not because it's Wolfgang Puck's flagship restaurant. The food itself is remarkably distinct, and you must experience it before leaving LA. I guarantee, you will have stories to tell back in NY. Bel-Air: Bel Air Hotel Dining Room - Also, like the Ritz, set in one of the most beautiful, romantic settings. The mere fact that they have swans and outside patio seating says something about its fairy-tale ambience. The food - an experience you will also never forget. The menu is seasonal and the chefs gather ingredients from the local markets daily. There is also a fireplace bar next to the dining room where my friend plays extraordinary piano. Santa Monica: The Lobster - scenic views of the ocean, good drinks, seafood to live for. Try the tempura shrimp appetizer. Delish desserts, too! Downtown: Water Grill - also seafood. Big downtown players lunch and dine there, couples, too, so it may be a less likely option for children. Seafood is fresh, ice cold platters to John Dory. Drinks are good, and my friend (bartender) makes them fast and to your liking! They also have a superb dessert tasting menu (yes, 5 courses of only sweets!). Calabasas: Saddle Peak Lodge. Truly, a dining experience in LA, but away from LA. It's hidden in the mountains above Malibu, rated as one of the top Zagat and Wine restaurants. It specializes in game - and I must declare, it's game is top-notch; elk tenderloin, buffalo roulade, etc. Dessert sampler a must. It's huge, and it actually gives more than it says on the menu. Malibu - Geoffrey's - firepits, palm branches, and candlight set against the sounds of waves and the setting sun. The chef will also come out to greet you and make sure your food is to your liking. Must have the tuna appetizer and beet salad. Desserts - any of them! Drinks - a menu of them. Beaurivage - Honest to goodness French/Mediterrean food. Owners are convivial and greet all their customers. Beautiful inside and view outside. Tue Mar 14 22:54:30 -0800 2006 440094 0 cj 2 440218 I forgot to mention: Beacon - small place, but creative East-meets-West Asian food. I wouldn't go for the sushi; their appetizers and entrees are a better reflection of the chef's culinary art. Sona - be prepared to eat for a loooong time. If you want to try some Italian... Angelini Osteria: I love the food and the atmosphere!! Once, I couldn't even decide what to get, and the host offered me something entirely off the menu, skate salad, and it was delicious. And, after I was waiting for my car, he came out to say bye! Drago/Celestino/Enoceta--part of the Drago family. It's great just for solid Italian food. I've seen Drago at all of his restaurants. He greets everyone and makes sure you're having a great time. Doug Arango -- great Italian, pizzas, etc, and classy. And just for a little more California coast... Duke's Malibu: Great drinks, great view! Taco Tuesdays, too. Paradise Cove Beach Cafe: Literally right off the sandy beach; throw your peanut shells off the floor; greatt seafood - get the huge iced sampler. hope this helps! chica-j Wed Mar 15 12:17:51 -0800 2006 440131 0 cj 1 440137 Unless you are committed to Beacon, I would skip that in favor of someplace else -- for soCal asian fusion Orris or Mako are both better bets, with Orris having more of a relaxed atmosphere but splendid food, and Mako being more of a "serious" restaurant, in terms of decor and service, but both are superior to Beacon. Quintessential LA place for excellent food, good vibe and great drinks is JiRaffe in Santa Monica -- not as stuffy and "French" as Melisse, and the food is a bit more inventive than Josie. Really like Tlapazola Grill in the Mar Vista/West LA area at the junction of Gateway and Barrington -- good sit down restaurant with excellent food. Relaxed setting. Tue Mar 14 23:43:16 -0800 2006 440094 0 NAspy 2 440324 I thought Beacon might be interesting because we already have reservations at the Myers's other restaurant, Sona. Do you still think we should forgo it for Ossis or Mako? I haven't been to either. Menu recommendations? Wed Mar 15 16:56:07 -0800 2006 440137 0 Todd HG 3 440346 Highly recommend Mako. Go for the small plates, like the ribs. For dessert, order the bento box - five different kinds in one! chica j Wed Mar 15 17:20:33 -0800 2006 440324 0 cj 1 440151 I would nix sushi and French when showcasing the LA dining scene for a chef from NYC. Melisse and L'Orangerie don't offer anything you can't get in NYC. The same goes for sushi. I think Campanille, AOC, and Lucques are a smart move. Throw in some Ding Tai Fung, some korean, and some mexican and I think you're all good. Plus or minus on Spagos for the Beverly Hills feel more than anything else. I'm in the minority but I didn't really like Josie. I thought the burger was one dimensional and the ribs in tagine were on the fatty side. Wed Mar 15 00:45:57 -0800 2006 440094 0 Porthos 2 440162 I second Din Tai Fung. There's only three in the world- Taipei, Japan, and Arcadia. The wait's long, but it's worth it. If you can, go for Saturday brunch/lunch. They only serve these dumplings in soup (sorry, I don't know how to say it in English) at those times, and it runs out fAsT. cj Wed Mar 15 01:55:14 -0800 2006 440151 0 cj 3 440302 I would note for clarity that it's worth going if he can't arrive first thing Saturday, as their "regular" dumplings are also best-in-class (subject to constant argument here, though.) Wed Mar 15 16:01:58 -0800 2006 440162 0 John 4 440305 Hehe, of course. Moreover, their chicken soup is touted for its organic chicken. chica j Wed Mar 15 16:04:41 -0800 2006 440302 0 cj 2 440323 What do you think of Ludovic Lefebrve over at Bastide? I haven't been, but it sounds as though he's doing unusual things. Wed Mar 15 16:52:00 -0800 2006 440151 0 Todd HG 3 440344 Sorry, Bastide is closed for renovation of the inside and the menu. cj Wed Mar 15 17:16:53 -0800 2006 440323 0 cj 1 440175 I don't think the high end of LA compares all that favorably to NY. The places you mention - maybe adding Providence - should suffice. LA shines in the mid range and low end ethnic cuisine (this is not complete and I'm am definitely leaving stuff out): regional Chinese (entire posts are built on this but, Din Tai Fung; dim sum at Mission 261, New COncept, or Capital Seafood; Sichuan at Chinqing or Best Sichuan; Shanghaiese at Mei Long Village or Chang's Garden, assorted others like Northern Chinese and hot pot, etc.) regional Mexican I would begin this with the absolutely essential La Casita Mexicana in Bell - IMO opinion the best sit-down Mexican in LA (sort of Puebla/DF style). Guelaguetza in Koreatown for Oaxacan Serenata de Garibaldi in Boyle Heights for upscale El Parian, etc. Korean Bu San for the crazy Korean Sushi experience, Soot Bull Jeep or Tahoe Galbi for BBQ, Kobawoo House for the mung bean pancakes, etc. Persian Javan is my favorite because they have the best stews IMO but some people like Sheherazad for the bread Thai Anywhere in Thai town but I like Yai, Sanamluang Cafe, Red Corner Asia Oh - the Wat Thai temple onthe weekends is an essential experience for the Thai Street Food Japanese I agree with Kiriko but also Ramen in Daikokuya or the new place JG wrote up. Also the whole wealth of Torrance/Gardena Assorted others: Zelo Pizza, Donut Man, Apple Pan, Langer's Deli (for the pastrami only) Wed Mar 15 02:41:24 -0800 2006 440094 0 Oro3030 1 440183 Hello, for regional Mexican with freshness, nuance, and finesse, consider La Casita on Gage Ave. in Bell (just south of ELA). enjoy Wed Mar 15 03:55:33 -0800 2006 440094 0 moto 1 440259 Below is the self-explanatory annual Ultimate LA Restaurants poll, completed in December. Represents the collective opinion of the LA board. Link: http://www.chowhound.com/topics/show/76226#420025 Wed Mar 15 14:13:52 -0800 2006 440094 0 Mr Grub 2 440320 Thank you. I have checked the poll out and culled some recommendations from it, but it's not as thorough as I would have hoped. Wed Mar 15 16:48:25 -0800 2006 440259 0 Todd H 1 440287 theres a bookstore across the street from OK on 3rd street in west hollywood. i forgot the name but they have some interesting old cookbooks. you should check out OK if you like designer housewares and home furnishings. very well curated small space. one of my favorite shops in LA. cookware they have hackman products, which are beautful if perhaps not that hardcore for cooking. and they have new heath pottery and stuff like that. im gonna add my list of restaurants that i give to visiting friends, which might be good for LA's more eclectic or hidden stuff. unfortunately i dont really rank them but if you have specific questions you can post it. Wed Mar 15 15:34:12 -0800 2006 440094 0 modernist 2 440301 Are you referring to Bodhi Tree bookstore? The one next to Urth Caffe? chica Wed Mar 15 16:01:57 -0800 2006 440287 0 cj 3 440306 On second thought, Bodhi is on Melrose. sorry! Wed Mar 15 16:07:19 -0800 2006 440301 0 cj 3 440307 no. directly across from ok. next to zipper. Wed Mar 15 16:07:49 -0800 2006 440301 0 modernist 4 440309 Got it!! Traveler's Bookcase! Wed Mar 15 16:10:34 -0800 2006 440307 0 cj 5 440338 No. Cook's Library 8373 W 3rd St Los Angeles, CA 90048-4312 (323) 655-3141 Cross Street: S Kings Road Wed Mar 15 17:12:34 -0800 2006 440309 0 Jerome 1 440312 *'s indicate favorites because the LA visitor season is just starting and because everyone i meet always asks me, i made list of good joints to chow at. i thought i'd put my phd in applied culinary anthropology to good use. still a work in progress, just started and is by no means exhaustive: david's los angeles restaurant list: Japanese: *gaja - torrance - okonomiyaki/monjayaki restaurant (postwar japanese cabbage pancake osaka style/tokyo style - more watery) you make it on a grill on your table. the monjayaki is like cabbage burm containing a flour flood! *sushi-gen - jtown - high quality - good value. sashimi lunch (10.50)and dinner specials are unbeatable except by *kasen - orange county - sushi: best sushi in socal. very japanese. only salariman eating there. expensive except for chirashi sushi lunch. multiple grades of toro, uni, abalone, mirugai, hamachi and more all for $18 in a crappy minimall in fountain valley. *musha - santa monica and torrance. the torrance spot is much better. fusiony tapas izakaya style. the mackerel thats grilled at your table is pretty rockin. yabu - santa monica and westhollywood. west hollywood location is cuter and has a bamboo garden. good home made zaru soba. good lunch specials too. matsuhisa: good but overrated/priced. i ate next to marky mark last time. black cod and foie gras, exclusive tempura bar, sucky decor. nobu just hangs out and shakes hands. nobu in london sucks royally!!!! *daikokuya - jtown - ramen - pork bone ramen only. i heard the signless glass brick spot across the street is a high end hostess bar! orochan ramen - 3rd floor weller court. many levels of spiciness. eating the top levels gets your pic on the wall. kinda gimmicky *hakata ramen - gardena, excellent hakata style ramen. noodles smaller than the ones your likely used to. and the worlds smallest gyoza *mitsuwa market in torrance food court ramen - delicious shinsengumi - torrance - robatayaki - screaming waiters and rock star gloved grill masters *furaibo - sawtelle - izakaya: teba saki specialist, great rare duck breast, fried halibut 2117 - sawtelle - euro with japanese twist - affordable gourmet, good prix fixe lunch. better than: sawtelle kitchen - sawtelle - fusiony: where white guys take their asian girlfriends for "cute dinner". *urusawa - old ginza sushi co spot in b hills - for the rarified dining journey. 250/head. before drinks tax or tip. go during fugu season. blue marlin - sawtelle- good curries and pastas done al dente. uni and spinach spaghetti is kind of unique. have lunch specials. kiriko - good westside sushi. has good home made ice cream. black sesame, ginger, red bean. yum! chef/owner can get stressed. yokohama shokusu - next to yokohama ramen in westside - konnyaku and beef tendon soup. feels like you're in someones living room. homestyle dishes you dont often find in LA. for some reason no one knows this place. (under new ownership?) next to tlapazola grill which is reasonably priced mexican fine dining. good selection of mezcal and tequila Umenohana - beverly hills - artisinal high end tofu tasting menu for foodies.(sadly now defunct) 1000 cranes - in the new otani in jtown - high end tempura bar. pricey but worth it! overlooks roof garden. kokekokko: little tokyo: grilled chicken in all its glory. no longer serves chicken sashimi which i had in tokyo last year. r-23 - little tokyo near sci arc - designer sushi on nice ceramics. sit on cardboard chairs in a brick loft space. started by people who did nishimura and hump. cooked dishes better than sushi Wakasan izakaya in the westside: omakase izakaya on westwood below santa monica. very cute and tasty. kappo honda izakaya in fountain valley also super good. mexican: *el taurino - hoover and olympic - tacos! al pastor! lengua! come here at 3am to see authentic tacos being eaten by drunk koreans. *tacos baja ensenada - east la - best fried baja style fish tacos, shrimp too. 99cent wednesday taco special ciros - east la - flautas or taquitos (overrated) free fresh guac and old mexican american history. across the street from mexican american institution el tepayac, home of the hollenbeck burrito. *la china poblana- cemitas sandwiches (lighter bread than a torta) milanesa with avocado, pickles and panela cheese. from a truck in a parking lot. (update: they've moved locations and have a whole restaurant now (on whittier a couple blocks east of lorena) theres now a cemitas truck on venice near sony studios on the north side of the street, and theres a truck that rocks cemitas on sunset in echo park one block east of the echo near alvarado) la serenata de garibaldi - east la - where many people go for high end gourmet mexican. fish with delicate sauces babita - san gabriel - the other gourmet mexican joint. many regions, shrimp tampolobampo - spicy! chiles en nogada. *la casita mexicana - affordable gourmet mexican in the city of bell, i had a nice chiles en nogada here, and they drizzle the chips with three of their signature sauces. *la huasteca - another gourmet option (soon to be openening also, in pasadena) *el mercadito- east la - first and lorena. mariachi mariachi mariachi! upstairs, dueling mariachi compete for your attention in this mexican dim sum sized restaurant. near evergreen cemetery on E 1st street and lorena. food upstairs soso, just snack on corn with chile and mayonaise, and other vendor snacks. can also get cactus fruits (nopalitos), the green ones are juicier. crazy shaved ice drinks (one called el diabolito its totally wild with chili and tamardindo sticks) tasty churros downstairs too. i hear the tamale shop across the street is good. *la flor de yucatan - hoover north of 10 - yucatecan -best cochinita pibil in town, only on weekends. otherwise its a bakery. kibi meatballs, salbutos etc. much tastier than chichen itza at the mercado la paloma. yucatecan cuisine has moroccan influence so the cooking style is very different from most other regional mexican cuisines) la parilla - silverlake and east la - grilled meats - stone bowl of meat, cactus and cheese and beer deal is awesome and enough food for three. good homemade guac. birrieria chalio - east la - birria - get your goat on. *el parian - sweet sweet birria near downtown la on pico next to a 99 cent joint. i hear they have good carne asada but i always stick to goat. Guelaguetza - ktown and westside - everybodys favorite oaxacan joint. moles. personally not too into it. lots of moles, they have this huge empanada with huitlacoche (corn fungus - but its more bland than you had hoped) la oaxaqueno - oaxacan taco truck on lincoln south of rose on west side. there after 7pm-ish. they rock tlayudas and memelas and have that custard in an ice cream cone pastry thing. jalisco style, sinaloan, de efe style, etc still looking. mamas hot tamales cafe - pico union - tamale collective! right next to langers deli where you must try the pastrami. see below! *juanito's - east la - artisinally crafted tamales. they sell out of certain ones. call ahead. la fonda - macarthur park - only for margaritas and mariachi. food is whatever. mariscos sinaloa in highland park for ceviche. cruise the taco trucks in east la and look for a pineapple stuck on top of the spit! there are trucks, restaurants, stands even backyard and driveway restaurants if you can find them... whitter blvd is good to cruise... tacomiendo - on the westside on washington and inglewood. og taco spot, better than overhyped taqueria sanchez. pupusas - salvadorean - all over town, try texis, or in the grand central market or anywhere on olympic near downtown and in ktown. glorias - westside on venice. fresh food and friendly service the place on venice near hoover on the south side that has all the tropical shit. that place is cool too. *El Pajonal on vermont and santa monica cubano sandwiches at cafe tropical in silverlake (fresh juices and overbrewed strong coffee), *portos in glendale (great baked goods, awesome potato balls, coffee and cheap) floral bakery in atwater (homemade ice cream with exotic fruit flavors). garlic chicken at versailles is overrated, instead go to rincon criollo, which in all honestly isnt that much better. *el colmao on pico between vermont and hoover is the most og cuban place in LA that i've found. oxtail soup and gallicean bean soup, try the tocino de ceilo instead of the flan for dessert (strangely named as: bacon from heaven!) chinese - all 10 minutes east of downtown in either san gabriel, monterey park or rosemead important note: when eating chinese food - make sure health rating is b or lower. if it has A, theyre not "keepring it reer" a rating = for white americans b rating = best c rating = chinese people only *sea harbor seafood - best dim sum in town - fancier than most old school joints. no carts. capital seafood - perhaps my new favorite dimsum place. check out the decor! embasssy seafood (cantonese seafood), newport seafood (viet chinese seafood) (everyone gets the lobster) *bifengtang (seafood village - chiu chow style- awesome fried crab with friend minced garlic for 5 bucks a pound. lunch specials too) dai ho - taiwanese style beef noodle soup, cold appetizers, not as spicy as i want it to be however. *chung king - authentic sichuanese *best szechuan - just up the street. - good shrimp, cumin-y lamb- "water cooked" dishes, frog dishes, owners kind of an asshole but the waiters are great. ma lan - hand pulled noodles. get the chicken and leeks with fat tagliatelle style noodles - like a uyghur dish. (just moved to rowland heights as of 8/22) Heavy Noodling - dao shao mian (knife cut noodles) and mao er duo (cats ears noodles) hearty! din tai fung - taiwanese style xiao long bao (soup dumplings - a bit pricey and more delicate, some say less flavorful) simbala - taiwanese snack shop in arcadia. famous for its sausages and other taiwanese street foods bin bin conjac - next door to simbala- chinese desserts. *focus plaza - aka: the great mall of china. eat anywhere in here. del mar and valley. shanghainese on second floor, islamic chinese, ay-chung second floor for taiwanese snacks hui lau shan (healthy dessert) near focus plaza for mango permutation desserts. mango pudding with fresh mango with coconut sorbet and harsmar and conjac. sweet shit. savoy - hong kong cafe style - everyone gets the hainan chicken rice. not to singapore standards but good. young scene (check out marias fashion next door for discount designer jeans and phoenix bakery below is next door too. *phoenix bakery - chinese desserts - puddings, warm porrigey desserts, melon delight soy milk drink. *tung lai shun - islamic chinese. baked sesame bread. lamb! yum. *green village in the focus plaza. shanghainese. xiao long bao, san jian bao, braised fish, sweet savory brown sauces. lions head meatballs. yung ho tou chiang - dou jiang (soy milk soup for breakfast) -i like salty but can get sweet too. good you tiao (oil stick-fried cruellers that you dip) shau may - chinese food. shaved ice dessert with 50 toppings. korean bing su eat your heart out. the pan chinese menu is gigantic but so so. luscious dumplings or dumpling master. dumplings 10053 many forms of jiao zi yung gui garden- yunnanese food. guo qiao mian - crossing bridge noodles and other dishes. soups are a little heavy on the msg (ask them to cook with less msg). fried dried beef is kinda interesting. i just found a woman behind the hong kong market that sells xiao long bao and san jian bao and lions head meatballs out of her living room. shes my dumpling dealer/speakeasy. email me for her number... my god too many to write down. vietnamese: golden deli - vietnamese snack foods - pho, bun, good cha gio (fried spring rolls) phong dinh - home of the famous baked cat fish (enough for three). lots of crazy game meats too. goat ribs. fox! venison! lee's baguette - grand progenitor of the banh mi wars. mr. baguette- my favorite of the banh mi joints (getting pricey though: a little big for their britches if you ask me) *nga trang - formery brodard two of orange county fame - good goi cuon - summer rolls with little crispy cruellers in the middle. i like the bun cha hanoi, different types of grilled pork with vietnamese herbs to wrap pho 79 - not the best but not bad. downtown la. check the large george nelson lamps. i tried to buy them once but they said they were rare japanese antiques, i didnt want to burst their bubble. the pho place around the corner from 79 is actually better. for real good vietnamese go to bolsa/westminster in the OC *ha noi magnolia and bolsa - good banh tom, shrimp and sweet potato fritters. specialty dish: catfish on iron plate with onions and dill, served with lots of fresh herbs. good bun cha (grilled pork and pork meatballs) *quan hy - bolsa and brookhurst - central vietnamese specialties Hue style: banh beo - steamed rice cakes with shredded shrimp with fish sauce. and some hue style noodle soups. and last but not least. vietnamese coffeshops! cafe di vang2 et al. vietnamese hooters! so fucking awesome! smoke filled, silicone filled. caffeine infused... burmese: golden triangle - whittier - mohinga (fish stew) onokowswe (coconut chicken noodle soup) lepet thoke (tea leaf salad) very well done! indian: *udupi palace - artesia - southern indian. veggie. my second favorite place in little india. good dosas the size of garbage can lids, good everything actually woodlands - artesia - similar to above shan - artesia - muslim indian - meat (weekend buffet) *surati farsan - my favorite place in little india - large selection of chaats, around the corner from udupi. just ask anyone. pani puri (like a dorito 3d that you crack and stuff with yoghurty potatoes and veggies then dunk into a tangy cold soup. crunchy, soft, creamy, sour all at once!) bombay cafe - westside gourmet style indian. tasty but pricey! india sweets and spices: westside and atwater village. veggie indian fast food that is completely passable although not particularly fine. westside joint is next to museum of jurassic technology and center for land use interpretation which is defintely worth a visit! curator/creator won the macarthur prize a few years back. represent! hare krishna temple in the westside - food by the pound with good fresh fruit juices. very affordable. and who can beat lunch with earnest hippies? (right around the corner from india sweets and spices) Ambala Dhaba on westwood blvd. authentic non veg indian food. home made kulfi ice cream persian: *Shahrzad Restaurant - good home made breads fired in a large egg shaped oven, meze, lamb chops. *attari sandwich shop - on westwood in a little courtyard. great sandwiches and awesome daily specials that you've never seen before on any persian restaurant menu. home cookin! lots of persian on westwood blvd. Rose Market - on westwood blvd south of santa monica- homemade persian ice cream - rose water, pistachio, served on little wafers and those little white noodle things and red sweet syrup if you want it. Mashti Malones - similar to above but in hollywood. lebanese/armenian: near thai town: bolder more lemony and and garlicky in its preparation than persian. i prefer it. *caroussel - glendale and little armenia - very tasty meze. stick to these. glendale spot is more elegant and tastier. mandaloun - elegant lebanese armenian. weekends have set menu dinner with live band. *marouch - also very very tasty *sahags basturma - ask sahag or his wife for a taste of his basturma. like a super powerful beef prosciutto cold cut. also make good homemade veal sausages with pinenuts and armenian beef spicy sausage called Soujouk. he can make these into sandwiches. buy a bottle of pomegranate juice too! tell him the bearded chinese kid sent you! (note: i think its been sold. i never see sahag anymore. so sad) if you like sausage check out the merguez sausage at Hadar Orthodox Kosher Meat on fairfax they make a godo merguez sandwich and jeffs gourmet too. arax bakery - taste the lahmajune and maenesh (sort of mini pizza like things) fresh out of the oven. can toast in a toaster oven too. good snacks. *arax falafel - good falafel, shawerma sandwiches thai: *wat thai - thai temple north hollywood - weekend food stalls just like bangkok! best som tum in town (papaya salad), grilled meats, coconut desserts. btn the 170 and 5 freeways on roscoe ruen pair - open to 3am. good food all around. poo dong (raw marinated crab with garlic, lime and chili) noodles. palm thai - only go for thai elvis. food is okay thailand plaza second floor restaurant - large place good for big groups. thai singers good food. have that spicy sour and salty soup with omlette. forgot its name but its not easily found in other restaurants that i've found. famous thai singers sing here) kruang tedd - go after 11pm and drink beers and rock out to thai indie rock with college kids. very fun! can also stop into jumbos clown room (ghetto strip club where courtney love used to dance) if you get bored. *the place across the street from KT is now one of my favorite noodle joints, next to the massage joint on the south side of hollywood. very good tom yum noodles. *sapp coffeeshop - closes early but it feels a lot like bangkok. lots of bangkok style thai chinese dishes. renu nakorn - norwalk - supposed to be good, particularly for esarn food (laos) never went cuz its so close to artesia indian restaurants. sompun - silverlake - mainly for white hipsters but they have khao soi. the famous chiang mai creamy coconut curry noodle soup (actually khao soi can be found at sapp and kruang tedd too) *note: if you get an in - many of the joints in thai town will serve you booze til 5am while you listen to people sing maw lam or look toong music (thai country music) ganda in the ruen pair mall for more souther thai peruvian: marios: hollywood - the joint that eveyone knows about. fried with fried. heavy but tasty...run by chinese peruvians. decent ambiance... good ceviche inti: if marios is too packed. zero ambience... pollo a la brasa: ktown - rotisserie chicken grilled with wood. best taken away. awesome and cheap *Los Balcones by the arclight. gotta try it still. (tried it, liked it. had a skewer of large chuncks of grilled beef heart and a nice ceviche. i hear the breakfast at don felix on virgil and fountain has some is the bomb, with lots of peruvians going there before church or something, but it ends early! brazilian: *cafe brazil: westside - byob laid back joint with grilled meats and tasty apps near: zabumba: live samba band and turns into dancing after dinner. i know a woman that makes fuckin awesome cheese balls (pao de quiejo) and will sell you a big bag and deliver to your house. call me for more info. greek: *papa christos on normandie and pico. go on a sunday when people from the orthodox church across the street pile in. good market for mediterranean goods too. cheap lamb chops! the only place to make my "frappe metrio me rala" coffee drink like on the islands. in the speakeasy district of south korea town. check out the club next door "catch 22" wonder what goes on in there... cambodian: have yet to check out the cambodian scene in little phnom phen in long beach. Chhom Nimol, the famous classically trained singer who also sings with dengue fever sings at Dragon House. hear the food isnt good though. i hear new paradise and hak heang are good. (update: new paradise rocks, food is very good) went to sophy's it was awesome. no amok though. had great cocunut soup, and bahok (grilled meat with green mango salad and fermented fish paste - a bit funky but good) hamburgers: *in n out - everywhere - double double animal style protein style. fries well done animal style. *apple pan - westside- old school burgers. water in paper cones, guys pour ketchup for you with a seasoned flip of the wrist *cassells - old school foodie burger favorite in the heart of ktown across the street from tang song sah. home made mayo. crazy homemade grill contraption. garlicy potato salad. now owned by koreans but still og. i actually dont like the burgers as much as i want to. i saw a guy plop a half peach on his burger once. respect! *pie n burger in pasadena. pies and burgers. old school! *fathers office: santa monica - sang yoon, old executive chef from michaels opened this joint. decent tapas but a rockin gourmet burger if you can stand the frat boys and noise and lack of seating. tommy's - go to the original on rampart at 2:15 am. kinda gross but kinda awesome *jays jayburger - i hope they will resurface. chili cheese burger with bacon and a fried egg. who needs flexbile arteries? see taylors steakhouse below. under old la see mccormick and schmicks and nick and stefs under happy hour below korean *soot bul jeep - bbq ghetto style - but tasty. mesquite wood bbq. bring disposable clothes. and the fire gets really hot! chosun kalbi - fancy designer bbq. cool architecuture with inside*inside/outside*outside concept) good for white people whove never had korean food. *sa rit gol - good pan chan get the black cod and daikon stew! dol sut bibimbap good too. one of my favorites. beverly soon tofu, sokongdong soontofu - you decide which one you like better. beverly has better atmosphere. but sokongdong has the raw spicy crab panchan olympic kalgooksu - kalgooksu (knife cut noodles in garlic chicken broth) and mandoo, awesome wall paper *tang song sah - 6th and berendo - cool po jang ma cha (korean pub) like a war bunker feel. get the pork ribs, grilled squid, fried battered dumbell things with the japchae noodles inside. grilled skewers. tofu kimchi and spicy salad. lots of kids fucked up on soju.kinda feels like sake decibel in new york. my secret recipe - grilled octopus and onions in gochujang sauce. fry leftovers with rice and nori and sesame oil later. lots of cool bangladeshi markets around the corner mandarin house - im a chinese snob, but i actually dont mind korean style ja jang myun. the other korean style chinese food can just disappear for all i care. han bat - sullongtang. beef bone soup: hangover rememdy. best at two am. mool naeng myung place western & third yong susan - fancy set course kaesang korean. avoid the cheapest set course. odae san - korean style sushi restaurant. lots of side dishes. quantity over quality. heavy on the white fish like halibut - koreans like it chewy... chili vinegar dipping sauces. try sea squirt. freaky looking and tastes like the ocean! looks like an alien. arado - live octopus and shrimp. korean sushi chin ko gae - 8th and berendo. black goat stew with lots of veggies! funky like maceo (the goat is a substitution for dog meat dishes, which are pretty good by the way) *san - 8th + berendo - chinese character for mountain. abalone porrige that tastes like a wonderful risotto and cornish game hen stuffed with sticky rice made into a soup with ginseng and garlic. good for colds. bok - (alvarado and james m wood) blowfish soup. they make the leftovers into jook at the end. lots of food! not as tasty as one would hope prince hotel - walking distance from soot bul jeep. a piece of old la. red banquettes, oil paintings, beefeater lamps done up ajashi style! booze and bar snacks. way cooler than hms bounty. (their prices have gone up along with their popularity, not gonna go as much) *chapman market - sixth and alexandria - for expensive mediocre coffee, booze and a procession of leased bmw's and the hot ktown girls that love the guys that drive those cars. the corner place restaurant : famous for korean white somen noodles with the sour mool kimchi soup base. inexpensive bbq too. han ji bak - 6th and berendo next to tang song sah across from cassells burgers. best damn daegi galbi in town. (bbq pork ribs) they used to be on pico, but the new location is nicer and less gritty. no english name: korean mudfish stew place on pico and 4th ave. hardcore! gourmet: a.o.c - suzanne goins newest. wines by the glass, charcuterie, cheeses. brought the small plates craze to LA. mediterranean. good but overhyped. personally i'd just go to la espanola meats, beverly hills cheese shop and a nice wine store and do it myself at home with friends for 1/5 the price.(ok i know theres other good stuff here too. i admit it!) *luques - solid good mediterranean food. see prix fixe below campanile - not what it once was, and grilled cheese night is annoying. sona - david and michelle myers. high concept. very high. tastes good? you decide. seared scallop in tomato water drizzled with argon oil. that kind of shit. *angelini osteria - solid food. a bit cramped. good pasta primi's and sea salt encrusted baked branzini. gino angelini just won a james beard award this year. good italian wines. barolo! have yet to try la terza but they do a small plates night on tuesday with nancy silverton. her next restaurant with mario battali is coming soon! i hear on melrose and highland. *spago beverly hills - wolfgang knows how to work a room, very nice tasting menu. providence - overhyped asian inflected seafood, in the old patina spot. my recent meal here was disappointing patina - heard its gone downhill since the move to the disney concert hall. but you get to eat inside a gehry bldg! last time i had the ocean menu in the old spot it was great. bastide: french food with california experimentalism. deconstructed foods. frozen shit. crazy combinations. love it or hate it. (note: reworking the menu) capo: santa monica - small italian restuarant with woodgrilled meats. last time i ate here i saw steven spielberg, tom hanks,larry david, albert brooks, dustin hoffman and wives. and this joints got maybe 20 tables. food honestly isnt all that exciting unless youre really into steak. *joe's - venice - i used to eat here once a week when i worked on abbot kinney. good lunch deals. the sand dabs are awesome. *melisse - good french. awesome cheese selection. il grano - bollito misto night on wednesday (have not tried it yet) one of the better italian spots in town *grace - pork tenderloin! gourmet deals: jiraffe - santa monica - monday prix fixe dinner. french. good chocolate souffle. *lucques - west hollywood - suzanne goins original spot, 35 dollar 3 course prix fixe on sunday. (update: its now 40 dollars) josie - wednesday market dinner prix fixe. 30 dollar 3 course. only until they sell out. fresh chocolates: jin patisserie - abbot kinney boule - west hollywood frances - jtown picholine - silverlake (sells by the pound) happy hours: nick and stefs - joachim splichals steak house downtown. good burger and aged steaks. braised beef cubes are tasty ciudad - mojitos and finger foods downtown. mary sue milliken and susan feniger of border grill fame. dinner isnt that great here though. mccormick and schmicks - not a bad burger for 2 bucks! the beverly hills spot feels like and is lit like vegas. pacific dining car has free finger foods. old la: phillippes or coles pe buffet. both claim to have invented the french dip at the same time. old school! you decide. at phillippes, ask to get the sandwhiches double dipped. lamb sandwich is good but sometimes is really fatty. cliftons cafeteria - decent cafeteria food (think mac and cheese) check the upstairs, the chapel. way too much kitsch to take in! uncle johns ham and eggs - think blade runner noir. chinese guys cooking diner food in a shotgun cafeteria. next to golden gopher. pork chop rice or ham and eggs or omlette with chinese chilis. inadvertant ghetto fusion. the pantry - dick riordans family restaurant. never closed. so so diner food. grand central market downtown. wander and nibble. good juice bar and tasty pupusas. hanks bar in the hotel stillwell near staples. good dive bar with mirrors and mannequins. 'nuff said. langers deli - do yourself a favor and have a pastrami here. best in the world. pay attention to the bread. ask for hand carved pastrami. this place is a one trick pony so stick to the pastrami. i ate here and flew to new york the next day and ate at katz's and second avenue. this place is the best. al langer rocks! oh yeah, good noodle kuegel too. taylors steak house - ktown - steaks, chopped steak burger, molly salad. old school la stuck in a time warp in current ktown and little central america. hear the culotte isnt very good. doesnt that mean panties in french? still has old ladies with blue hair eating here. reasonably priced too. soda jerks - pasadena - old fashioned soda fountain and they serve fosselmans ice cream! interesting cultural experiences one must check out: lowenbrau keller - silverlake adjacent - craziest visual feast of a restaurant in town. good german food too! opened by billy wilders prop master and it shows. if not for food, just come and have a beer and wander around the restaurant. would take weeks to soak in the stuff in here. run by two old women. babe and rickys inn - leimert park. 5 dollars gets you a show with micky champion the best 70 year old mike-less blues singer in the world and a soul food dinner. trick is the food isnt served till 11pm. mondays. she also sings downtown by jtown on sunday nights. (update: its now 8 dollars) prayer assembly of god - weekend bbq at a black church on el segundo and avalon. smokey but sometimes dry bbq. 310-523-2470also try phillips bbq on crenshaw. take away. quality seafood - redondo pier - benches, cheap pitchers, 20 types of oysters in salt water tanks. crab and live uni etc. Wed Mar 15 16:19:56 -0800 2006 440094 0 modernist 2 440388 Jaw hits the floor. Thanks Wed Mar 15 19:00:58 -0800 2006 440312 0 MEalcentric 3 440461 oh my goodness! i am printing the list and going to try out all the restaurants in, oh....lets say the next 5yrs? hehehe. Wed Mar 15 22:20:47 -0800 2006 440388 0 wilafur 1 440321 SGV/Downtown Places to try: Wahib's Middle Eastern Restaurant - Semi Casual Any of the Lamb Dishes are the best pick. 910 E. Main St., Alhambra, CA http://www.wahibsmiddleeast.com/ Green Papaya Thai Restaurant - Semi Casual Many choices of great noodle dishes and prices below $10 per for most items. 1800 Valley Blvd. Alhambra, CA 91803 Phone: 626-282-1291 http://www.green-papaya.net/ Babita Restaurant - High End Mexican Food/Full Service $15-30 plate (626) 288-7265 1823 S San Gabriel Blvd San Gabriel, CA Restaurante Guelaguetza - Haven't been but sounds like a great place for MOLE 3337 W. 8TH STREET Los Angeles (213) 427-0601 Nicole's Gormet Foods - French Foods Galore + small bistro/cafe 921 Meridian Avenue, Unit B South Pasadena, CA 91030 La Española Meats, Inc. Everything from Spain you would ever want 25020 Doble Avenue Harbor City, CA 90710 Tel:(310) 539-0455 Claro's Market - Italian Emporium of Food and other goodies 1003 East Valley Blvd San Gabriel, CA 91776 Tel: (626) 288-2026 CLOSED WED Petrillo's Pizza - Great Old School Pizza Etc ( 2 blocks from Claro's) 833 E Valley Blvd San Gabriel, CA 91776 (626) 280-7332 Fosselman's Ice Cream - Made On Premises Ice Cream=Can't pass up the Best Chocolate Malt you'll ever had (ask for it to be made with Dark Chocolate Ice Cream) 1824 W. Main St. Alhambra, CA 91801 626-282-6533 Wed Mar 15 16:50:23 -0800 2006 440094 0 RobL 2 440340 I highly recommend Fosselman's, too. Their flavors are extraordinary, and they have a long-established following in LA. I get their chocolate, vanilla bean, and taro. They also have seasonal flavors, like pumpkin spice and such. A lot of restaurants buy their ice cream. Even ice cream shops! (ie the late much-liked Soda Jerks) chica j Wed Mar 15 17:14:15 -0800 2006 440321 0 cj