New kid on the coast, Alix Liiv's favorite restaurants in LA....
435 N Fairfax Ave
Los Angeles, Ca 90036
323 782-9225
It came highly recommended by a friend. The menu changes daily and it only serves beer and wine, but its dark lighting and warm ambiance matche its eclectic and hearty plates. One noteworthy dish is the pig ear, chili, lime and fried egg which is perfect for the season and the recent cold LA nights. Animal reminds me of one of my fave places in NYC- April Bloomfield's The Spotted Pig. And I am always looking for NY originals. Easily one of the best, tastiest places to eat in LA.
465 S La Cienega Blvd
Los Angeles, California 90048
(310) 246-5555
Culinary genius Jose Andres in the kitchen signals that you are in for an innovative treat. Even the biggest foodies could never anticipate his insane food creations and combinations. Although, I highly recommend going to live on the wild side and being open to the experimental (delicious) food and drink, there is also a more traditional Spanish Tapas Menu with some amazing meat and cheese platters for those who want to play it safe. The "Modern Menu" has items such as: Foie Gras wrapped in Cotton Candy, Olives that explode in your mouth because they are filled with air, and the LN2 Caiparinha (liquid nitrogen and Brazilian Cachca made table side). All your senses will be tickled and delighted at Bazaar.
641 N. Highland Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323.297.0101
Mario Batali and Nancy Silverton got it right with this Italian joint. The pizza is to die for (this coming from someone who is lactose intolerant and more than willing to endure pain for this pizza) and the antipasti selections are just the basics that everyone is looking for at an Italian restaurant, but with a nice contemporary twist: spicy green beans with almonds, asparagus with mustard and hazelnuts, eggplant caponata. The wine list is excellent and not too pricey as well. And if you are in the mood for a less expensive menu, Pizzeria Mozza right next door is the perfect alternative.
5925 Franklin Avenue
Hollywood, CA 90028
323 465-0175
This place is fun at any hour. It's great for an afternoon bite or a late night drink (they have happy hour from 11pm-Close). The drinks are cheap and the food is good. Even though it is called Birds, the burger is better than average and the Thai Chicken Bowl is yummy. I always seem to find myself dancing and singing at this joint...
8474 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA
323 655-6277
Even though this place has been around for awhile, I don't think many people know about it. Excellent French cuisine, with a beautiful outdoor patio/garden in the back for dining. The triple pork burger is superb and the lentil soup is just heaven- so many different flavors. Although the crowd tends to be a bit older, it is worth stopping by for the chic, dramatic decor alone.