Thursday, August 16, 2012

LAUREL HARDWARE


With so many new restaurants opening in LA, it's often difficult to choose where we should visit next.  Well I think we made the right decision in venturing into Laurel Hardware.  Once the local favorite fix it store has now become a hip, vibrant and trendy hot spot.  

As you enter, the first thing you notice is the open kitchen.  Generally I love this type of layout but thought it made the restaurant a bit detached from the back area and outdoor patio.  Perhaps this is what they were going for but feel a completely open space would be a bit more inviting.  

To kick things off Ann and I headed straight to the bar for a delicious cocktail.  Since we are fans of the Moscow Mule we decided to try the Mule's Apprentice (kaffir lime & mandarin blossom vodka, fresh lemon and ginger beer).  Good flavor but didn't seem too different from the original.  

After approximately a 30 minute wait and 1 drink in the system we were seated.  Since we were able to take a peek at the menu ahead of time we had a good idea of the exact dishes we wanted.

I highly recommend starting with the blistered baby tomatoes (burrata, plum honey and shiso olive puree).  This dish will definitely leave you wanting more and excited about the rest of the meal.  

For our main courses Ann picked the burger and I went with the pork cheeks.  Since I had some beef the day before I decided not to partake but from the look of Ann's face I can say she was pleased with the flavor.  The pork cheeks were quite tasty and topped with a 63.5 degree poached egg. 63.5 because at this temperature the perfect poached egg is served. You can't argue with science when your meal is cooked perfectly.  And if you’re interested in finding out more on the science of food, take a peek at The Modernist Cuisine.  You’ll be truly amazed. 

Overall we had a great time and super meal.  We will definitely return soon to sample the rest of the menu.  

Insider Tip: Although reservations are suggested you can definitely walk in during the week and land a table.  Don't be deterred by the hostess giving you a wait time of one hour because it normally translates into 30 minutes max.


Buen Provecho!










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