W est side
Dining Guide 2017
Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana
WE HAVE WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR — SOMETHING FOR EVERY TASTE & CRAVING
APPAREL & JEWELRY DSW Shoes Men’s Wearhouse O’ My Soul Swiss Jewelers BEAUTY & HEALTH Eyes of the Marina Equinox European Wax Center Fantastic Sam’s Foot Massage Studio Happy Nails Salon John Peri Salon Nails By Olivia Pure Barre Phenix Salon Suites Supercuts ULTA
ENTERTAINMENT & ELECTRONICS SERVICES AMC Marina Marketplace 6 AMC Marina 6 Dine-in Theaters Radio Shack T-Mobile RESTAURANTS & QUICK SERVICE FOOD Baja Fresh Mexican Grill Burger Lounge The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf DOMA Kitchen East Coast Bagel Fatburger Irori Sushi
BOOKS, MAGAZINES & NEWSPAPERS Barnes & Noble Booksellers
13450 Maxella Avenue, Marina del Rey
J. Nichols Restaurant Jamba Juice Le Pain Quotidien New India’s Oven Panda Express Pizzarito RA Sushi Ruth’s Chris Steak House Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill Tender Greens Viktor Benês Bakery (Inside Gelson’s Market) Yard House Yogurtland
FINANCIAL Bank of America ATM Citibank Chase Wells Fargo Bank GROCERY & DRUGS CVS Pharmacy Gelson’s Market Pavilions Grocery SERVICES Hear USA Fulcrum Construction Liberty Tax State Farm Insurance UPS Store US Post Office VIP Marina Cleaners SPECIALTY & GIFTS Petals ‘n’ Wax Pier 1 Imports
VillaMarinaMarketplace.com
the perfect place to meet
and
eat.
FRESH BROTHERS
RAINBOW ACRES
SEE’S CANDIES
KREATION ORGANIC
STARBUCKS COFFEE
DRYBAR
MENDOCINO FARMS
SUGARFISH BY SUSHI NOZAWA
SEPHORA
PINKBERRY
THE COUNTER
PAPER SOURCE
MAINLAND POKE
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN
WILLIAM B + FRIENDS
ShopWaterside.com | 818.637.8921 | 4700 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Spectacular Waterfront Dining Voted Best of the Westside Steak & Seafood Fantastic Happy Hour Monday - Friday • 4:30pm - 7pm Saturday - Sunday • 11:30am - 4pm Marina del Rey • 13950 Panay Way 310.822.4144 Online reservations at chart-house.com Also visit us in Redondo Beach, Cardiff, Dana Point, San Francisco & Monterey
4 Westside Dining Guide 2017
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©2017 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
AbadiMTStd_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆΔ˚¬µ˜øϖœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–±
Locally Sourced. Community Made.
Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey specializes in community-made, locally sustainable cuisine. Enjoy panoramic views of the water while savoring seasonal dishes hand-selected by Executive Chef Umit Kaygusuz. For reservations, please call 310-574-4333 or visit castandplow.com
Managing Editor: Joe Piasecki Art Director: Michael Kraxenberger
We stside
Dining Guide
2017
29 Mouthwatering Dishes . ................................................................... 8
Guide Writers: Christina Campodonico, Whitney Eshleman, Brittany Ford, Richard Foss, Jessica Koslow Photography Special to The Argonaut: Courtnay Robbins Bragagnolo: Good Night/Good Cause Burger (12); Erica Allen: Margherita Pizza (18), Octopus Poke Bowl (20), Soup Dumplings (26); Christina Campodonico: Dulce de Leche Latte (1); Michael Kraxenberger: Salmon BLT (21); Joe Piasecki: Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen (24); Emily Hart Roth: Barbecued Veggies (3), Cioppino (7), Loaded Bialy Sandwich (15), Lots of Grain Hotcakes (17), Shrimp Cocktail (25), Plum Streusel (4) Ad Designer: Kate Doll Account Executives: Renee Baldwin, David Maury, Tina Marie Smith
5 Distinctive Drinks ....................................................................................... 28
Advertising Director: Alan Rock
4 Delectable Desserts ............................................................................... 32
(310) 822-1629 5301 Beethoven St., Suite 183 | Los Angeles, CA 90066
Directory of Advertisers ......................................................................... 34 ON THE COVER: Mozzarella, crushed tomatoes, basil, Parmigiano Reggiano and extra-virgin olive oil sizzle on a crispy, thin crust as a margherita pizza is pulled from the wood-fired oven at Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana in Marina Marketplace. Photo by Erica Allen. Design by Michael Kraxenberger.
INS
PIRED BY
THE COAST Overlooking the picturesque Marina del Rey harbor, Cafe del Rey offers a truly fine-dining experience with coastal-inspired cuisine in an elegant seaside setting.
BRUNCH | LUNCH | DINNER | BAR & LOUNGE
Monday – Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Sunday 10:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Executive Chef David Vilchez | General Manager Brian Cousins 4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292 (310) 823-6395 | cafedelreymarina.com
6 Westside Dining Guide 2017
Publisher: David Comden
The Westside Dining Guide is a special annual supplement of The Argonaut and © Southland Publishing, Inc.
For additional copies, call (310) 822-1629.
Local News & Culture
See Los Angeles. Dine Differently. SUNSET DINNER. JAZZ CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH. SUMMER COCKTAIL CRUISES.
Reserve a private table for 2 or 20. Any group’s the right size for a yacht celebration when you’re looking to experience that California lifestyle against a fiery sunset. For other occasions relax with family on a casual harbor tour or toast with bottomless bubbly on a decadent brunch cruise. Hornblower.com | 310-301-9900 | FOLLOW US
NEWPORT BEACH
MARINA DEL REY
LONG BEACH
SAN DIEGO
SAN FRANCISCO
BERKELEY
NEW YORK
2 9 D i s h e s W e Lo v e From Coconut Fried Chicken to C i o p p i n o, T r e at Yo u r s e l f to These New Westside Classics
1
The Americano Breakfast @ Atmosphere Café 12034 Venice Blvd. | Mar Vista | (310) 437-0144 Sometimes it’s the simpler, the better — even when you can make it at home. The French-owned Atmosphere Café offers The Americano, which includes two eggs, turkey sausage or sliced avocado, roasted potatoes, bread, butter and jam. The deal-sealer is the perfectly salted crisp potatoes on the side. — Jessica Koslow
2
Australian Meat Pies @ Fork-in Aussie Pie Kitchen 2510 Main St. | Santa Monica | (310) 399-0743 These aren’t the take-away snack you might expect — instead of a portable meal of meat and vegetables locked inside a crust, these pies make a tasty base for a stack of delectable toppings. The Aussie hand pie goes baroque here for a surprising ornamentation of a classic beach nibble.
8 Westside Dining Guide 2017
— Richard Foss
OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH & DINNER • DINE IN • TAKEOUT • DELIVERY
(310) 670-6677 • 8343 Lincoln Blvd. • Westchester www.AlejosRestaurant.com
3
Barbecued Veggies @ Charcoal Venice 425 Washington Blvd. | Marina del Rey (310) 751-6794
4
Brunch Salad @ Bacari PdR 6805 S. Vista Del Mar Lane Playa del Rey | (310) 439-2100
Who knew that cabbage could be a luxury when roasted on hot coals and served with sumac yogurt? Or that smoky grilled carrots could be so superb with honey, ricotta and black pepper? The vegetable items here are every bit as delectable as the meats, and a lot more surprising. — Richard Foss
This savory salad will have even the most dedicated carnivores eating their greens and loving it. A bed of tender warm kale is topped with sautéed lardons, a sous vide egg and a stimulating hot bacon vinaigrette. It’s hearty but not heavy — perfect for a brunch by the beach. — Whitney Eshleman
5
Chicken & Mushroom Cavatappi @ Pitfire Pizza 12924 W. Washington Blvd., Mar Vista | (424) 835-4088
This squiggly pasta dish stands out in a restaurant known for its big, bustling pizza oven. The cavatappi and roasted chicken is dripping with garlic crema, thyme, parsley and arugula. It’s not too heavy for a creamy sauce, perfect to share and fun to eat. — Jessica Koslow
Your Light Still Shines Bright
Special cut dry aged steak.
Happy Hour
Monday — Friday 3-7 pm
GEORGE PETRELLI
JOE PETRELLI
rants are becoming a very rare commodity these days, but we at George Petrelli’s Steakhouse preciative that Culver City has chosen us as the Best Steakhouse for the 2016 Readers Choice
Family-Owned Steakhouse Serving the Community of Culver City Since 1931. Featuring a Private Banquet Room, & Special Sunday Brunch on Easter & Mother’s Day.
proud and honored to be carrying forward the Petrelli family legacy. She is the niece of Joe nt founder of Joe Petrelli’s Steakhouse in 1931, and the daughter of George Petrelli, who sadly rs ago.
George Petrelli Steakhouse • 5615 South Sepulveda Blvd • Culver City 90230 twitter@petrellisteak • www.georgepetrellisteaks.com • 310-397-1438 • 310-398-9777
y, their patrons are not merely customers, but they have become extended family. George, Sophie seen generations of families walk through the front doors for eight decades now.
d support are elements that chain steakhouses can’t compete with. Additionally, George Petrelli or Petrellis Steakhouse for over 45 years. George took the time to pass his knowledge, skill and Gonzalez who is now Petrelli’s in-house meat cutter. Omar is known for his Double Cut Dry-Aged use Steaks. After all, Omar learned from the best. Petrelli’s is one of the few steakhouses that ts special cuts of meats on the premises.
UCLA Bruins Rated Petrelli’s Hamburgers as “ The Top Five Burgers In Los Angeles” 2017 CBS /KCAL 9 Listed Petrelli’s ,” Best Steakhouse by City in Los Angeles”
is rich in history and tradition. It is where George Petrelli, an immigrant from Italy, who never hard every day of his life until he finally was able to have his American dream realized. However,
6
Chicken Wings @ J Nichols Kitchen 4375 Glencoe Ave. | Marina del Rey (310) 823-2283 Culinary variety abounds in Los Angeles, but good wings aren’t so easy to find. J Nichols comes to the rescue with an eight-piece wing platter that strikes the right balance of sweet and spicy — marinated in a flower bomb of fresh ginger, soy sauce, sambal, brown sugar, garlic, ketchup, honey and black pepper, then double-cooked.
7
Cioppino @ Cantalini’s Salerno Beach 193 Culver Blvd. | Playa del Rey (310) 821-0018 Cantalini’s cooks up a perfect cioppino (a classic Italian seafood stew) with Manila clams, shrimp, New Zealand mussels, scallops and calamari in a savory tomato broth. The broth is seasoned beautifully but does not overpower the fresh seafood that makes this stew so wonderful. It’s served with toasted garlic bread to sop up every drop. — Whitney Eshleman
— Joe Piasecki
8
Coconut Fried Chicken @ Cha Cha Chicken 1906 Ocean Ave. | Santa Monica (310) 581-1684
Fried chicken gets a Caribbean twist thanks to a batter that marries the sweetness of coconut with just a little spice. This seems to be their own recipe, and whoever came up with it was having a very good day. The meaty, moist meat with crunchy batter, fruit and spice is a dynamite combination. — Richard Foss
Best BBQ On the WeStSiDe! “Home of the Baklava Cheesecake”
SMOkeD in a BRiCk Pit We DO CateRing fOR SMall PaRtieS anD CORPORate eventS
“Country barbecue shack in the city!
310.821.6939 Texas bbq
Morfia’s has a real brick smoker, crucial for getting the traditional product. Real Texas barbecue has a chewy exterior called bark, a rosy ring where the smoke has penetrated the meat, and an interior that is moist and tender but not mushy....There are many dessert choices at Morfia’s and they’re all made in-house, so there’s a good chance you’ll find something you like.” — Excerpts from restaurant review by Richard Foss
Dine in • Take OuT • CaTering • BYOB — no corkage fee 4077 Lincoln Blvd., Marina del rey 90292
(Next Door to Brennan’s Pub)
MorfiasRibsandPies.com | Open Daily from 11am – 9:30pm
9
Crispy Duck Lumpia @ Wallflower 609 Rose Ave. | Venice (424) 744-8136
10 Carne Asada Tacos @ Pepe’s Tacos 4582 S. Centinela Ave. | Del Rey (310) 391-86677
There are all sorts of variations on eggrolls around Asia, but this West Coast Indonesian fusion variety stands out from the rest. The rich duck meat and fresh vegetables inside crisp layers of flaky pastry pack a lot more flavor than the bland staples of takeout menus. Most eggrolls are forgettable — these aren’t. — Richard Foss
You’d guess that the liquor store and donut shop is why the little strip mall at Centinela and Culver is called Happy Corner, but for our money the credit goes to Pepe’s Tacos. On a tortilla, in a Pepe’s Supreme burrito or over fries with cheese and guac, the carne asada never fails to satisfy.
— Joe Piasecki
11
Fish Tacos @ La Fiesta Brava 259-B Hampton Dr. | Venice (310) 399-8005
Venice residents rejoiced when their favorite local Mexican restaurant found a new home just a few blocks away from its original location. Family-owned for 23 years and counting, La Fiesta Brava serves fish tacos — featuring grilled sea bass (soft like butter) with their secret ranchera sauce and seasoning salt — that are not leaving the neighborhood. — Jessica Koslow
14 Westside Dining Guide 2017
FOOD TRUCKS FOOD TRUCKS RETURN! • At Marina “Mother’s” RETURN! specials
at Marina “Mother’s” Beach
fun!
THURSDAYS 5 PM - 9 PM
tas ty!
May 4th - September 28th Trucks and menus change weekly. Grab your food and enjoy the sand, picnic tables, and scenic Marina del Rey harbor. PARKING IN LOT #10: 4101 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 90292 (25¢ for each 10-minute period). For more information: 310-305-9545 or marinadelrey.lacounty.gov Food Truck Schedule: lotmom.com/beacheats Facebook.com/BeachTrucks • Facebook.com/exploreMDR
Twitter.com/BeachTrucks
Westside Dining Guide 2017 15
12
Good Night/ Good Cause Burger @ Hopdoddy Burger Bar 12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. | Playa Vista (310) 410-2337
13 Huevos Rancheros @ Cora’s Coffee Shoppe 1802 Ocean Ave. | Santa Monica (310) 451-9562
The base is a classic — a hunk of beef with layers of juicy lettuce, tomato and sharp Tillamook cheddar cheese — but it’s the sassy sauce, grilled onions, optional jalapenos and Hickory BBQ that gives this burger a sweet and spicy side. For each burger sold, Hopdoddy gives $1 to a local charitable cause.
— Christina Campodonico
The beans are white cannellini, and the herb mixed in is epazote — that’s what makes the huevos rancheros at Cora’s so unique and tasty. Throw in ranchero sauce, pico de gallo and a homemade vinegar jalapeno on top and this dish has just the right amount of kick.
— Jessica Koslow
14 Kobe Bulgogi @ Wharo Korean BBQ 4029 Lincoln Blvd. | Marina del Rey (310) 578-7114
A half or full order of Kobe Bulgogi arrives raw on a plate, marinated in fruit soy sauce. It’s your job to cook the thin-sliced boneless beef short ribs on the grill in the center of your table. The meat is tender, hot and bursting with flavor.
— Jessica Koslow
16 Westside Dining Guide 2017
Fresh & Healthy Cooked Just for You!
Authentic Tacos, Burritos, Salads & Rotisserie Chicken Handmade Corn & Flour Totitllas
BennysTacos.com
7101 W. Manchester Ave. | Westchester 90045 | 310.670.8226 915 Wilshire Blvd. | Santa Monica 90401 | 310.451.0200
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in STOre PurcHaSe Must show cashier. Not to be combined with any other discounts/coupons. Exp. 5/15/17.
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20% OFF caTering Call Benny 818.612.3875 Not to be combined with any other discounts/coupons. Exp. 5/15/17.
15 Loaded Bialy Sandwich @ Gjusta 320 Sunset Ave. | Venice (310) 314-0320
Start with a poppy-and-onion bialy. Add tomato, pickled red onion, salted cucumber and radish, herbs and sprouts, capers, and your choice of classic lox, herbed or pastrami gravlax, or other house-cured and smoked fish. Like a Jewish brunch with a Cali twist.
— Jessica Koslow
16 Lobster Roll @ The Albright 258 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica | (310) 394-9683
It’s almost a sinful pleasure: Take the silkiest, most buttery seafood, add mayo to make it even more luscious, and serve it all in a white roll with just a little celery and spice. The lobster roll is the official snack of New England, and The Albright nails it.
— Richard Foss
18 Westside Dining Guide 2017
1984-2017
N.Y. PIZZA BY THE SLICE
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his is the place to go if you’re in search of authentic New York pizza by the slice. Pizzarito offers New York thin crust or Sicilian deep dish pizzas with a wide variety of toppings. Enjoy calzones, sandwiches, lasagna, manicotti, stomboli, pinwheels, garlic knots, tiramisu, black and white cookies, N.Y. cheesecake, beer & wine. All sauces and dough made fresh daily. Dine inside or outside, take-out and delivery. Enjoy the sounds of authentic Italian music & artwork of renowned artist Ken Keeley. M A R I N A M A R K E T PL AC E 4371 Glencoe Ave., Suite B-7, Marina del Rey (between Pavilions and CVS)
310.823.7333 SUN–THUR 10:30AM –11PM FRI–SAT 10:30AM –1AM
DELIVERY • CATERING • DINE-IN • TAKE-OUT
www.Pizzarito.com
Westside Dining Guide 2017 19
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Lots of Grains Hotcake @ Superba Food + Bread 1900 S. Lincoln Blvd. | Venice (310) 907-5075
18 Margherita Pizza @ Settebello 13455 Maxella Ave. | Marina del Rey (310) 306-8204
Sometimes, less really is more. Settebello captures the spirit of Italy on a thin, crispy crust by letting the pure, natural goodness of five classic ingredients — mozzarella, crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, ParmigianoReggiano and extra-virgin olive oil — share the spotlight in a delicate balance of flavor. To add anything else would be messing with perfection.
— Michael Kraxenberger
This is one huge, round, hearty pancake with a pat of fresh butter and sea salt sprinkled on top. A few of the grains include millet, wheat germ and flaxseed. There’s lots of buttermilk inside, and they whip the egg whites to make it fluffy. Drizzle it with Vermont maple syrup, and it’s delicious to the last bite.
— Jessica Koslow
19 Miso Beef Omusubi @ Sunny Blue 2728 Main St. | Santa Monica (310) 399-9030 12608 W. Washington Blvd. | Mar Vista (310) 751-6306
Stuffed with shredded beef that’s been cooked for a very long time, the rice ball — more like a triangle — gets wrapped with a slice of seaweed, then seasoning is sprinkled on top. This first-and-only omusubi store in SoCal makes them right before your eyes, hot and fresh, and one or two make a full meal-on-the-go.
20 Westside Dining Guide 2017
— Jessica Koslow
Great Food & Exceptional Service Since 1959 $5 OFF Any Purchase
Famous Fried Chicken!
of $20 or more. Dine-In or Take Out Must present coupon. Not available with Senior or Junior Menu Items. Excluding beverages. Not valid with other offers. Expires April 30, 2018.
. . . a most enjoyable atmosphere! 6521 SEPULVEDA BLVD, LOS ANGELES 90045 Westside Dining Guide 2017 21
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Octopus Poke Bowl @ Da KikoKiko 12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. | Playa Vista | (424) 835-4192 Octopus can be tough and chewy, but here it melts in your mouth. Choose from dozens of vegetable and herb toppings or stick with the perfectly balanced house recipe: kimchi, edamame, scallion, ogo (seaweed), cilantro, sesame and a drizzle of yuzu kosho sauce (a fermented paste made from citrusy yuzu peel, chili and salt). — Michael Kraxenberger
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Salmon BLT @ Del Rey Deli 8501 Pershing Drive | Playa del Rey | (310) 439-2256 There’s a lot going on in this savory twist on an American classic. First your taste buds awaken to fresh sourdough bread sourced from Ca’d’Oro Bakery in Inglewood. Then comes crunchy lettuce, creamy mayonnaise, garden-fresh tomatoes, soft and succulent house-cured salmon and the scrumptious magic of crispy bacon. Hungry yet?
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Seafood Salad @ Killer Shrimp 4211 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey | (310) 578-2293
— Michael Kraxenberger
This full plate of fresh seafood includes calamari, shrimp and crab piled high atop chopped iceberg lettuce with tomato, cucumber, avocado and a spicy thousand island dressing. The dressing adds a little kick to the fish, while the avocado brings the creaminess. It all works together in one cohesive satisfying dish. — Whitney Eshleman
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Short Rib @ Café del Rey 4451 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey | (310) 823-6395 A favorite item from one of the best happy hour menus on the Westside, this dish features delectable short rib melting apart into an incredible medley with savory polenta and crispy Brussels sprouts. Pair it with one of their happy hour reds for the full luxurious experience. — Whitney Eshleman
22 Westside Dining Guide 2017
The Art of Mexican Food
V e n i c e
Brunch Sat & Sun Lunch M-F Dinner Nightly
310.396.3105
Healthy Mexican & Vegetarian We Deliver! Catering Available. Sun-Thur: 11:30 am - 9:30 pm | Fri-Sat: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm
310.664.1177 | casalindamexicangrill2.com Both at 1025 aBBot Kinney Blvd., venice 90291
Delizioso! When you walk into Caffé Pinguini you can be assured of a warm Italian greeting courtesy of owners Tony Cotrufo and Enrico Fiorentini. The two, who hail from Rome, have been running the restaurant since 1997, featuring daily food specials, hand-tossed pizzas, homemade bread, delicious pastas and a number of simply prepared chicken, fish and veal dishes. • Home-made Pastas • Romantic Dining by the Beach • Specializing in Seafood • Open-Air Patio LUNCH: TUES–FRIDAY • DINNER: TUES–SUNDAY
caffé pinguini ITALIAN RESTAURANT
6935 Pacific Avenue • Playa del Rey 310-306-0117 www.CaffePinguini.com Westside Dining Guide 2017 23
24 Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen @ The Ramen Joint 6220 W. 87th St. | Westchester (424) 227-9328
25 Shrimp Cocktail @ Playa Provisions 119 Culver Blvd. | Playa del Rey (310) 683-5019
This might be the freshest shrimp cocktail in the area, and it eats more like a platter than a four-bite appetizer. With herbed olive oil, cocktail sauce and old bay mayo, it’s a unique, upscale twist on the classic dish. The herbs work perfectly with the shrimp, and the sauces allow you to make each bite different and delicious.
— Whitney Eshleman
This tonkotsu ramen starts with the most intense, porky broth you can imagine and in fresh, springy noodles. Add mushroom, onion, bamboo and char siu pork with a little extra char from a blowtorch, and you have a satisfying dish that’s all about the intense flavors of natural ingredients. It’s not fancy, just perfect.
— Richard Foss
26 Soup Dumplings @ROC Kitchen 12775 Millennium Dr. | Playa Vista (424) 835-4777
There’s a craze for these steamed dough packets full of spicy, rich pork broth with Chinese herbs and a hint of ginger. Take it all in one bite or you’re liable to wear it home instead of eat it, but try them even if you have to wash a shirt before getting the hang of it. Trust me, it’s worth it.
— Richard Foss
24 Westside Dining Guide 2017
Family Friendly Fresh, Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Hacienda Del Rey 310.670.8588 8347 Lincoln Blvd. Westchester
Hacienda Playa del Rey Mercury God of Commerce
O P E N 7 D A YS
310.751.6135 8415 Pershing Drive Playa del Rey
27 Taiwanese Sunday Gravy @ Little Fatty 3809 Grand View Blvd. | Mar Vista (310) 574-7610
28 Thai BBQ Chicken @ Ayara Thai Cuisine 6245 W. 87th St. | Westchester (310) 410-8848
Outside Southeast Asia, there aren’t many places to find barbecue like this. Ayara smothers the chicken in a variegated blend of lemongrass, ginger, garlic, cilantro, black peppercorn, coconut milk, turmeric powder, curry powder, sugar and fish sauce. It’s delicious on its own, but dip a bite in the bold house sauce to add body and heat.
— Christina Campodonico
This dish of Italian-style pasta with minced beef and pork, mushrooms and pickled greens is served every day and doesn’t have much actual gravy, but so what? What matters is the spicy, peppery, mushroomy, vinegary, meaty blast of flavor. It’s like nothing you’ve had before, and you’ll be back for more.
— Richard Foss
29 Vegan Noodles @ Erven 514 Santa Monica Blvd. | Santa Monica (310) 260-2255 Finding flavorful vegan ramen can be a formidable challenge, but with this one you don’t miss the meat. The rich yeast broth, ramen noodles and shitake mushrooms offer true depth of flavor, and a variety of fresh vegetables add plenty of substance to leave you feeling full but not heavy.
— Brittany Ford
26 Westside Dining Guide 2017
L I V E W I T H O U T R E G R E T. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH LAUGHTER. ENJOY YOUR STEAK ON A 500º SIZZLING PLATE.
From her warm hospitality to her sizzling steaks, Ruth had a certain way of doing things. Come in tonight and experience Ruth’s delicious, timeless recipe for yourself. Marina Del Rey • 310.821.4593 • 13455 Maxella Avenue
THINK
For Fun, Food & Amore!
Mothers Day Brunch Rehearsal Dinners • Graduation Parties Banquets • Delivery • Catering 31 Washington Blvd. 310-823-9491 www.cotrattoria.com
Voted Best Italian Restaurant on the Westside!
3o16 Washington Blvd. 310-301-7278 www.cocucina.com
For your free gift & upcoming event info text AMORE to 42828 Westside Dining Guide 2017 27
Dr i nks “Here’s to alcohol, the rose-colored glasses of life.” F. Scott Fitzgerald, “The Beautiful and Damned”
“I’d rather take coffee than compliments just now.” Louisa May Alcott, “Little Women”
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Dulce de Leche Latte @ Café Solar 6224 W. Manchester Ave. | Westchester | (424) 227-6486 You can get all sorts of sugary concoctions at Starbucks, but if you’re looking for something a little more original and a little less saccharine, try this latté for the sophisticated sweet tooth. The drink pays homage to the Latin American dessert topping, but it doesn’t allow its caramel-like flavor to overpower the drink’s coffee base. — Christina Campodonico
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Feeling Catcher @ The Lincoln 2536 Lincoln Blvd. | Venice | (310) 822-1715
Negroni Bianco @ Scopa Italian Roots 2905 W. Washington Blvd. | Venice | (310) 821-1100
Don’t be fooled by the bright red color — this is a bourbon drink, not some fruity rum punch. The sweet, sweet bite of America’s foremost contribution to the pantheon of spirits retains its dignity in this uncommon infusion with smooth aloe, zesty lemon, sweet-tart blackberry and aromatic fresh basil.
Even if you’ve just learned to love the Negroni — the classic Italian cocktail of gin, Campari and sweet vermouth — it’s time for a change-up. This version with dry vermouth and Suze bitters is everything that makes the original fantastic, but different. Trust your bartender on the second drink, but make this one your first.
— Joe Piasecki
— Richard Foss
28 Westside Dining Guide 2017
Voted The Westside’s Best Margarita 4 Years in a Row!
Happy Hour Monday – Friday 3 to 7 & 10 to Midnight. Open 7 Days Lunch & Dinner Brunch Saturday & Sunday 11AM TO 2PM 311 Washington Blvd · Marina del Rey 310-821-2252 · BajaCantina.com
JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL
Cinco de Mayo Party • Friday May 5th with Live Music from 6 to 10pm
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Old Fashioned @ Sinder 4100 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey | (310) 301-3000
Stone Thinker @ Copa d’Oro 217 Broadway | Santa Monica | (310) 576-3030
A classy nightspot tucked inside the Marina del Rey Marriott, Sinder serves up the perfect Old Fashioned — not too sweet, and with just the right amount of orange bitters. From the luxardo cherry to the solitary square ice cube, this cocktail will have you ordering another in no time.
Fresh, fruity and a little tangy, this is a tall glass of bright orange bliss. Vodka and apricot liqueur blend smoothly with fresh lemon, organic apple juice and ginger beer — like cold-pressed juice with a kick. A Stone Thinker makes for an easy opener to exploring the other 43 signature cocktails on the menu.
— Whitney Eshleman
British Pub & Restaurant
— Joe Piasecki
UnWrAP AMAzing!
Gift Shoppe & Bakery
• Happy Hour M–Fri 4-7PM • Patio Dining • Weds Trivia • Afternoon Tea Mon - Sat • Sunday Karaoke • Live Sports Open for Breakfast 8am Weekends, 9am Weekdays
SUNDAY ROAST DINNER Freshly Baked Pies & Cakes in our Bakery Imported foods & great gifts in our shoppe
Experience Quality Ingredients & Quality Taste! Seafood Tamales • Sweet Tamales • Veggie Tamales Vegan Tamales • Chicken, Beef & Pork Tamales
A fresh, healthy alternative to fast food 116 Santa Monica Blvd., BEST DARTS FIRST PLACE
Best of the Westside 2014/The Argonaut
30 Westside Dining Guide 2017
Santa Monica (2nd St. at Ocean)
310-451-1402
www.yeoldekingshead.com
Tamaras Tamales • Marina Plaza
13352 Washington Blvd., LA 90066 • 310.305.7714
www.tamarastamales.com
WELCOME TO THE MdR KIND OF WATERING HOLE Mix a spoonful of northern Italian fare with a dash of Napa Valley sensibilities and you get Barbianca Local Kitchen. A neighborhood favorite in Marina del Rey located inside Hotel MdR. HAPPY HOUR DAILY 4-6 • WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS LOCALS ONLY RECEIVE 20% OFF* at Barbianca Local Kitchen when you mention this ad. Barbianca Local Kitchen at Hotel MdR reservations: 310-577-6039 • barbianca.com • 13480 Maxella Ave. • Marina del Rey 90292 *Food items only. Not valid during Happy Hour. Expires 12/31/17.
CATERING SERVICES (818) 612- 1309
/malbecpasadena /malbectoluca /malbecsantamonica
follow us @malbeccuisine
Westside Dining Guide 2017 31
D e ss e r t s
Life is Short — Don’t Forget the Sweet
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Butter & Salt Donut @ Sidecar Doughnuts 631 Wilshire Blvd. | Santa Monica | (310) 587-0022
Coffee Ice Cream @ Sweet Lucie’s 12222 Venice Blvd. | Mar Vista | (310) 808-7243
A donut with two of life’s greatest simple pleasures: butter and salt. The vanilla bean cake inside is soft, and the brown butter glaze outside is crunchy. It’s sweet and Jacobsen Sea Salt-y, and knowing that there are no additives, preservatives or artificial flavors makes you feel better about indulging.
The coffee ice cream is creamy and perfectly sweet, with just the right amount of “real” coffee flavor. It’s housemade with organic ingredients — Sweet Lucie’s is the first USDA Organic certified ice cream manufacturer in SoCal. This cute scoop shop even has a play corner for kids.
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— Jessica Koslow
Granny’s Apple Tart @ Truxton’s American Bistro 8611 Truxton Ave. | Westchester | (310) 417-8789 Imagine Grandma’s fresh-baked apple pie served in a cast iron skillet with a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you have the Granny’s Apple Tart. Truxton’s ode to pie à la mode is light and flaky, with perfectly sugared and cinnamon-spiced apple slices that aren’t too hard or soft. 32 Westside Dining Guide 2017
— Christina Campodonico
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— Jessica Koslow
Plum Streusel @ Röckenwagner 12835 Washington Blvd. | Mar Vista | (310) 577-0747 It’s hard to pick just one treat from behind Röckenwagner’s big glass counter. Perfect for dessert or breakfast, the plum streusel pastry is crunchy and soft, fruity and powder sugary. It’s not too sweet, and they source special Italian plums tucked next to the almonds in their streusel. — Jessica Koslow
D i r e c t o ry o f A d v e r t i s e rs Alejo’s Presto Trattoria .............................. 9
Cast & Plow ....................................................................... 5
J Nichols Kitchen ................................................ 36
8343 Lincoln Blvd. | Westchester (310) 670-0799 | alejosrestaurant.com
4375 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey (310) 574-4333 | ritzcarlton.com
4375 Glencoe Ave. | Marina del Rey (310) 823-2283 | jnicholskitchen.com
Baja Cantina ................................................................. 29
Chart House ..................................................................... 4
Malbec Argentinean Cuisine .......... 31
311 Washington Blvd. | Marina del Rey (310) 821-2522 | bajacantina.com
13950 Panay Way | Marina del Rey (310) 822-4144 | chart-house.com
2628 Wilshire Blvd. | Santa Monica (310) 315-5457 | malbeccuisine.com
Barbianca Local Kitchen ........................ 31
Del Rey Deli ..................................................................... 19
Marina Marketplace ........................................... 2
13480 Maxella Ave. | Marina del Rey (310) 577-6039 | hotelmdr.com
8501 Pershing Drive | Playa del Rey (310) 439-2256 | delreydeli.com
Beach Eats ........................................................................ 15
Dinah’s Family Restaurant ............... 21
13450 Maxella Ave | Marina del Rey (310) 827-1740 | villamarinamarketplace.com
Milk & Eggs ..................................................................... 33
4101 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey (310) 305-9545 | lotmom.com/beacheats
6521 Sepulveda Blvd. | Westchester (310) 645-0456 | dinahsrestaurant.com
milkandeggs.com
Benny’s Tacos ............................................................. 17
Downtown Santa Monica .................... 35 (310) 393-8355 | downtownsm.com
4077 Lincoln Blvd. | Marina del Rey (310) 821-6939 | morfias.net
Gladstones ....................................................................... 21
Pizzarito ................................................................................. 19
7101 W. Manchester Ave. | Westchester (310) 670-8226 915 Wilshire Blvd. | Santa Monica (310) 451-0200 bennystacos.com
C&O Cucina .................................................................... 27
Morfia’s Ribs and Pies ............................... 13
17300 Pacific Coast Hwy. | Pacific Palisades (310) 454-3474 | gladstones.com
4371 Glencoe Ave. | Marina del Rey (310) 823-7333 | pizzarito.com
George Petrelli Famous Steaks .......................................................... 11
Rise & Shine Catering ................................. 21
3016 Washington Blvd. | Marina del Rey (310) 301-7278 | cocucina.com
5615 Sepulveda Blvd. | Culver City (310) 398-9777 | georgepetrellisteaks.com
C&O Trattoria ............................................................. 27
Hacienda Del Rey ................................................ 25
6511 S. Sepulveda Blvd. | Westchester (310) 649-0906 | riseandshinecatering.com
Ruth’s Chris Steak House .................. 27
13455 Maxella Ave., Ste. 230 | Marina del Rey (310) 821-4593 | ruthschris.com
31 Washington Blvd. | Marina del Rey (310) 823-9491 | cotrattoria.com
8347 Lincoln Blvd. | Westchester (310) 670-8588
Café del Rey ...................................................................... 6
4451 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey (310) 823-6395 | cafedelreymarina.com
Hacienda Playa del Rey .......................... 25
8415 Pershing Drive | Playa del Rey (310) 751-6135
13352 Washington Blvd. | Mar Vista (310) 305-7714 | tamarastamales.com
Caffe Pinguini ........................................................... 23
Hal’s Bar & Grill ...................................................... 23
4700 Admiralty Way | Marina del Rey shopwaterside.com
6935 Pacific Ave. | Playa del Rey (310) 306-0117 | caffepinguini.com
1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd. | Venice (310) 396-3105
Cantalini’s Salerno Beach ..................... 4
12751 Millennium Drive, Ste. 140 | Playa Vista (424) 228-4641
193 Culver Blvd. | Playa del Rey (310) 821-0018 | cantalinis.com
Casa Linda ........................................................................ 23
1357 Abbot Kinney Blvd. | Venice (310) 664-1177 | casalindamexicangrill2.com 34 Westside Dining Guide 2017
halsbarandgrill.com
Hornblower Dinner Cruises ................ 7
13755 Fiji Way | Marina del Rey (310) 301-9900 | hornblower.com
Tamara’s Tamales .............................................. 30
Waterside at Marina del Rey ............ 3
Ye Olde King’s Head ...................................... 30
116 Santa Monica Blvd. | Santa Monica (310) 451-1402 | yeoldekingshead.com
B R E A K FA S T | L U N C H | D I N N E R
Voted Top 3 for Best Contemporary California Cuisine, Best Restaurant Service Team and #1 for Best Breakfast VOTED
BEST OF THE
WESTSIDE 2016
4375 Glencoe Ave. Marina del Rey 90292 | 310.823.2283 | www.jnicholskitchen.com