Category Archives: California

Saddle Peak Lodge

Posted on by

saddlepeak1 saddlepeak2

**** (4 stars)

Back in the 80s we somehow accidentally stumbled upon this place in the dark one night. Once you visit, you’ll realize how unlikely an event this was, given how it’s tucked away in a little canyon. That night, even though the restaurant had only been open a couple of weeks, we had a delightful meal, with fresh game and attentive service in an exotic hunting lodge setting. We’ve been going here ever since.

Saddle Peak Lodge is perhaps LA’s most unique restaurant, given its colorful history and unique decor. If you’re put off by mounted hunting trophies, this isn’t the place for you. But if great elk, quail or other game is your thing, this is the place.

It’s a particularly good ambiance for holiday dinners, and has become our Thanksgiving standard. Brunch is also popular, with outside seating that can be zipped up when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Saddle Peak Lodge
419 Cold Canyon Rd
Calabasas, CA 91302
(818) 222-3888
http://www.yelp.com/biz/saddle-peak-lodge-calabasas

L’Ermitage Beverly Hills

Posted on by

***** (5 stars)

If you like hotels that make you feel like you’re coming home, this is the place to stay. Great friendly staff, huge rooms, nice view. It can be pricey, but sometimes there is a stay 3 nights get one free deal that makes it more attractive. Nice gym facility. Convenient location. Includes free wifi (I’m always annoyed that the cheap places give it for free, the expensive ones tend to charge, so this is a plus.) We used to stay at the Four Seasons because of its homey atmosphere, but this place tops it, so we’ve stayed here three years in a row.

L’Ermitage Beverly Hills
9291 Burton Way
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 278-3344
http://www.yelp.com/biz/l-ermitage-beverly-hills-beverly-hills

Meet in Paris

Posted on by

**** (4 stars)

A very authentic French bistro in a charming neighborhood. Great for outdoor dining, a bit bustling inside. Many varieties of mussel preparation, a house specialty, with great flavors. The tomato tart is unique and delicious. Authentic dijon dressing on the salad, crusty French bread. Superb assortment of authentic cheeses, no so superb assortment of wines. Fabulous creme brulee with a wonderfully caramelized crust. Reasonably priced.

Meet in Paris
9727 Culver Blvd
Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 815-8222
http://www.yelp.com/biz/meet-in-paris-culver-city

Kiriko

Posted on by

***** (5 stars)

I’ve had sushi all over the world, and this is as good as it gets. The omakase is the way to go. At dinner it was $84. The sashimi was a particular standout, combining extraordinary freshness and garnishes that added wonderful textural and flavor complexity. Friendly service that provided just a bit of guidance as to what not to put soy sauce on, without the didactic pushiness of the other high end sushi places in LA. Definitely a favorite.

Kiriko
11301 W Olympic Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 478-7769
http://www.yelp.com/biz/kiriko-los-angeles