HUNGRY CAT in Santa Monica Canyon -- the newest kitty to the litter

We love the Hungry Cat in Hollywood (even if it is in a mall) and we've been to the one in Santa Barbara with our cousin Andrew Firestone for the most delicious burgers and kumquatinis several times.  So we were thrilled to see the awning go up on "restaurant row" on West Channel Rd. in Santa Monica a few months ago.

Mary is new to the neighborhood and while we are passionate about Giorgio Baldi, love Caffe Delfini and think Sam's is delcious and cozy-- those three are not the most economical, laid back neighborhood haunts.  Not that the Hungry Cat is inexpensive, but it has a fabulous bar and bar area and does offer the aforementioned burger, and other less pricey apps and dishes (that we wound up preferring to the main courses!!).

We met a friend for drinks at the bar when it first opened a few weeks ago and were impressed with the bustling crowd, chic minimalist design (done by famed and handsome interior designer Jeffrey Alan Marks, also a neighbor) and the cocktails.

Returning over the weekend for dinner, we were blown away by the the food-- the oysters were fresh and bursting with sea water flavor, the fried zucchini blossoms stuffed with shrimp mousse were insane, the burger got rave reviews once again, the clams and chorizo were a hit and the beignets for dessert were scrumptious.  The only thing that disappointed was the halibut- two of us had it and declare it a bit bland.... Oh!  And the wine from a Topanga winery "on draught," was actually very good-- who would have thought?

So happy to have a new neighborhood hangout in the Canyon.  Our own version of Cheers!