Last weekend Culver City gave birth to a new restaurant & bar – The Wallace. Of course, Your Next Bite was there to feed your breaking food news desires, just minutes after opening.
The Wallace has an industrial meets French bistro vibe with Thomas Edison style over-sized bulbs descending from the ceiling, high counter top tables with round back bar stools, and white leather tufted booths. Even though the decor is a throwback, the music and the food keep it modern.
Saddled up to the bar, I couldn't wait to order the Early Ace cocktail with Earl Grey Tea. (Being a half Brit myself, I can never get enough of this classy herbal infusion). The bartender was friendly, the staff was attentive, and so was my neighbor who just happened to be part owner.
I asked him about the meaning of the restaurant's name. Funny, yet not surprising in this town, he told me it was chosen for three reasons: he loves the movie Braveheart, it rolls off the tongue nicely when answering the question "Where do you want to go tonight? The Wallace.", and it was the only website domain name not taken.
While I couldn't stay for a full meal, I did get a chance to try a favorite sampler dish from chef Michael Teich (sbe, Cleo, Mercato di Vetro).
The Grubdown:
- Melted Greens are tender with cool citrus salsa, Bacon Marmalade is more like a smokey 'n chunky onion jam, not too spicy Romesco stole the show, Grilled Flatbread Dip Trio $8
- herbal & nutty liqueur flavors, only problem is there's not enough of it to fit in the tiny glass, Early Ace cocktail with Damrak Gin, Earl Grey Tea, Lemon, Egg White & Pistachio Foam $12
The soft 'n warm Flatbread with chunky Sea Salt was just a tease to the Duck Rillettes, Lemonfish Crudo, and Charred Lamb Leg with Farro Risotto I can't wait to go back and try.
3833 Main St., Culver City, CA 90232. 310.202.6400.
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