ISO dinner venue near Fairfax/Melrose

[waterisgood]

Taking my hipster cousin out for dinner, and she loves everything but Chinese. Near Fairfax/Melrose or not so far south or west of that area. Somewhere lively and not bank breaking (limit is $40pp without drinks, tax, tip). Trying to avoid Red O. Was thinking Luna Park, which I used to frequent but stopped maybe 5 years ago - I went recently and the food was not good.

[BSW6490]

CaBrea or Campinille (both on LaBrea) are good choices.

[westsidegal]

fwiw, i would substitute Angeli, 7274 Melrose Ave, for Luna Park.

[perk]

I find Luna Park's food just passable. But there is a new wine bar close to that area. 3Twenty South.
It's at 320 South La Brea. Not a full bar....but "pours" of wine in those machines....so lots of choices.
Very nice selection of small plates. The owner, Edgar, is very knowledgeable. Has a fun crowd by mid evening. It's my new favorite place in the neighborhood.

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Luna Park
672 S. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036

[Servorg]

If you have interest in Argentinian food then 2 blocks west of Fairfax on Melrose is Carlitos Gardel. Unless you go for their most expensive steaks you should be well able to keep to your budget.

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Carlitos Gardel
7963 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90046

[samtron608]

The Foundry on Melrose might be an option.
just a few block south is Animal, Son of a Gun and AOC.

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AOC
8022 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Son of a Gun
8370 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048