THE FOUNDRY ON MELROSE

For New Year's Eve Ann and I decided to keep it low key.  Chef Eric Greenspan wowed us with a delicious 5 course meal full of tastings from both the salty and sweet.  Not to mention he was extremely personable and approachable the entire night.  At $75.00 per person I think it was well worth the money and a fantastic way to bring in the new year.  I highly recommend giving this place a try in the near future.


Buen Provecho!

THE LITTLE NEXT DOOR

Due to lack of planning and combined with a bit of laziness, Ann and I found ourselves scrambling to find a place to eat on Christmas morning.  I was certain most restaurants would be open and Ann was confident we would not eat until the next day.  Fortunately we came across the Little Next Door.  This place seems to have it all.  The waitstaff was attentive, the decor was authentic and the food was absolutely lovely.  While I dove into the Serrano Ham & Wild Arugula dish Ann chose the Spinach Omelette.  Both were great selections and I will certainly be stopping in again soon for another delightful meal.


Quick Tip:  Try the special.  1/2 sandwich, soup, salad and macaroon for $15.

Buen Provecho!

TOMATO PIE PIZZA JOINT

Looking for a lunch spot close to the Disney offices in Glendale?  Head to Silver Lake to try Tomato Pie.  This is a great place to take a few friends and get away from it all.  


Quick Tip:  Order two slices and get a fountain soda for $.50.


Buen Provecho!

NOBU-WEST HOLLYWOOD

It's hard to believe I hadn't been to Nobu-West Hollywood yet!  I always envisioned overpriced dishes with a pretentious staff.  However, I guess it's true and you should never judge a book by it's cover.  While the place may seem unapproachable at first, grab a seat in the bar area and the bartenders will make you feel right at home.  I have tried many sushi restaurants in Los Angeles but I think this one of my top 5.


Quick Tip: Come in for happy hour, drinks specials are from 5:30-8 and food specials are from 5:30-Close.  Whatever you do make sure to give the Cauliflower with Jalapeno Dressing dish a try.  It will have you coming back for more.


Buen Provecho!

NIC'S MARTINI LOUNGE

I really enjoy spending the holidays with family and friends so why not celebrate with a few martinis?  Always a favorite, Nic's Martini Lounge usually delivers on every level.   While the drinks, pizza and ambiance were superb I have to give the fresh oysters a thumbs down.  I don't normally send dishes back but this was a must.  The great thing about it was the waiter had no problem with getting us something we liked better.  They really have great customer service and I hope to take my brother here when he visits this July.


Buen Provecho! 

ASIA DE CUBA



Once again being a member of BlackboardEats has paid off.  This time Ann and I were able to enjoy a wonderful prefix tasting menu for $39 per person.  This truly was an unbelievable deal!  

Calamari salad, butterfish, short ribs and plantain fried rice were out of this world.  I can't wait until the next coupon comes out because there's no shame in saving a little money.


Buen Provecho!

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Hands down this was my favorite restaurant of 2011.  It's truly amazing to taste the cuisine from such a talented chef.  Michael Voltaggio is at the height of his game and we can expect great things from him for quite some time.  While I wish I could put the meal into words you'll need to experience it yourself in order to understand.

Do yourself a favor and make reservations today!

Quick Tip:  The new menu is a 4 course tasting meal so make sure to call ahead and get pricing.

Buen Provecho!