Your Next Bite

Cava Mediterranean Cafe opens in Costa Mesa

• 
• 
• 
• 

I'd been eyeing Cava on my regular 17th street commute for quite some time. The thought of a new Greek-inspired, Mediterranean cafe in town, definitely piqued my taste buds, as there's not too many of these options in the area. What I didn't realize is the "soft-open" I had already experienced months ago at my local Whole Foods Market.

Located in the refrigerator section next to my regular Organic Cedar's Hummus, I spotted some sleek new products with a black label, bold white font, and signature golden 'V' in the word "Cava". There were Dips like spicy Harissa, Tzatziki, and Organic Traditional Hummus – all vegetarian without any preservatives.

Fast forward to mid summer and enter Cava in Costa Mesa. It's located in a complex on the corner of Raymond St. with brand new construction, including 2 more cafes opening soon. The exterior is comprised of light gray wood and black metal, while the inside is modern industrial with stainless steel, white subway tiles, light woods, and black accents.

The Menu is "Build Your Own" style with 5 easy steps:

1.) Start with a Base: Salad Greens, Grains, Greens + Grains, Large Pita, or Mini Pita & Soup

2.) Choose up to 3 Spreads: Eggplant + Red Pepper Dip, Tzatziki, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Hummus, Harissa, or Crazy Feta

3.) Pick a Protein: Falafel, Spicy Lamb Meatballs, Braised Beef, Roasted Seasonal Vegetables, Grilled Chicken, Grilled Meatballs, or Braised Lamb

4.) Choose a Topping: too many to list them all, but highlights include Tomato + Cucumber Salad, Pickled Banana Peppers, Kalamata Olives, Cauliflower Quinoa Tabbouleh, or Crumbled Feta

5.) Drizzle on a Dressing: Sriracha Greek Yogurt, Lemon Herb Tahini, Green Harissa, Greek Herb Vinaigrette, Yogurt Dill, or Spicy Apricot Dressing

And, let's not forget about their All-Natural Fountain Sodas, House-made Seasonal Juices & Teas like Watermelon Mint, and a variety of Spindrift flavored Sparkling Waters.

The Grubdown:

- tender garlic & herb Braised Lamb Bowl with Super Greens & Grains, spicy Harissa, cool Tzatziki, original Hummus, Crumbled Feta, Pickled Onions, and spicy Green Harissa Dressing

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

The hand model and I got basically the same thing because we just couldn't resist. The bowls were so large and in charge that we definitely could've split one, but the Mediterranean mix of Herbs & Spices kept us digging in for more. The side order of warm Pita was great for scooping, too.

So, next time your taste buds want to take a trip to the Mediterranean, try Cava at one of their 70+ locations from coast to coast.

350 East 17th Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627. 949-200-7637.

Last call for dineLA Restaurant Week

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

photo courtesy of discoverlosangeles.com

If you haven't been prix-fixe'n it up since July 18th, then you've been missing out.

Over 300 restaurants in LA are offering 3- and 4-course Lunches and Dinners for dineLA Restaurant Week with prices ranging from $15 to $95+.

Here's a list of old standbys to grub on.

The Grubdown:

a.o.c. in West Hollywood

- simple, fresh, local, complete, Farmer's Lunch with Summer Vegetables, Tomato Eggplant Jam, Chickpea Puree, Burrata & Grilled Toast

Bouchon in Beverly Hills

- rich 'n devilish, Croque Madame Grilled Ham, Fried Egg, Cheese & Mornay Sauce on Brioche with French Fries

Connie And Ted's in West Hollywood

- Jo's Wicked Good Chowda Sampler: 1.) Rhode Island simply stole my heart with straight fragrant Clam Juice, Chicken Broth & Butter 2.) New England was thin not thick and tasted just as good but with Cream & Paprika added 3.) Manhattan was the best I ever had because it wasn't watery, yet velvety with great Tomato depth, Potato rounds, Carrots & Celery

Fig & Olive in West Hollywood

- amazeballs, 'nuf said, Truffle Mushroom Croquette with Cremini Mushroom, Parmesan, Bechamel & Truffle Olive Oil Aioli

Roof on Wilshire in Los Angeles

- massive, super tender, you'll have to share to avoid the decadent guilt Wilshire Burger with Cheddar Skirt, Sweet Dill & Onion Jam, Steak Sauce Aioli, and Challah Toast

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Bon Appetit!

When it's Cold out, the Soup's on!

• 
• 
• 

After a brutally hot, unrelenting Summer, temps have finally cooled down to a chilly 64 degrees. If you live in Southern California that basically means it's time to break out the UGGs and scarves.

And, when it comes to Your Next Bite, it's time to warm your soul with a bowl of hot creamy goodness.

Here's a list of Soups to slurp on from classic Tomato to Fall favorite Butternut Squash.

The Grubdown:

Doughboys - Beverly/The Grove area in LA

- sweet 'n creamy, After School Special Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Tomato Soup

Little Next Door - Santa Monica in LA

- string cheesy, crunchy onions, classic French Onion Soup

Port Restaurant & Bar - Corona del Mar in OC

- must order, creamy, nutty, feathered texture, sweet 'n savory herb, Butternut Squash Soup with Creme Fraiche & Parsley

Enjoy the cold front while it lasts!

Enjoy Local Housemade Fare at Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe

• 
• 
• 
• 

Last week, we kicked off the most traveled month of the year with a road trip to Sides Hardware and Shoes in Los Olivos. The next stop, literally right around the corner, is Los Olivos Wine Merchant and Cafe.

They've been serving local, organic, sustainable food since 1995. And, all their Dressings, Sauces, Pastas, Pizzas, Breads, Desserts, and Ice Creams are freshly made in house.

The exterior is beautiful, boasting of lush trees & vibrant colored flowers on the patio. Upon walking in, you might recognize the Wine Wall from a little 'ole movie that put Central Coast on the wine map, Sideways. (They even offer a 3-course "Sideways Tasting" for $39.) The interior is classic contemporary with white, black, and neutral tones. And, the service is neighborly, warm & inviting.

The Grubdown:

- tangy with a touch of spice, needed more creamy cheese, Golden Beets & Burrata with Roasted Hazelnuts, Fresh Horseradish, Spinach, Whole Grain Mustard & Lemon Vinaigrette $12

- hearty & rustic, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with Olive Oil Smashed Potatoes, Swiss Chard & Crimini Mushrooms $25

- divine, woodsy, rich 'n creamy, Housemade Mushroom Trio Ravioli with Ricotta, Porcini Cream & Parmesan $17

- zesty, herbacious, soft & fluffy, Rosemary Focaccia Bread with Parsley & Red Wine Vinaigrette (complimentary)

• 
• 
• 
• 

If I had to compare Los Olivos Cafe to Sides Hardware & Shoes, I'd say the dishes here are richer, larger, and a classic Mediterranean style.

So, you better bring your appetite, as both the hand model and I had to take half our food home – not by choice.

But, don't worry. No one's gonna look at you Sideways if you drink the Merlot.

2879 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos, CA 93441. 805-688-7265.

 

dineLA Restaurant Week is back July 13th-July 26th

• 
• 
• 
• 

first photo courtesy of discoverlosangeles.com

dineLA Restaurant Week is back for 14 days this July 13th-July 26th. It's your chance to sample prix-fixe Lunches and Dinners ranging from $15 to $50. Here's a taste of some of my favorite places from Cal-Mediterranean to New England seafood and French cuisine.

The Grubdown:

a.o.c.

- simple, fresh, local, complete, Farmer's Lunch with Summer Vegetables, Tomato Eggplant Jam, Chickpea Puree, Burrata & Grilled Toast

Connie And Ted's

- Jo's Wicked Good Chowda Sampler: 1.) Rhode Island - simply steals the heart with straight fragrant Clam Juice, Chicken Broth & Butter 2.) New England - thin not thick 'n tastes just as good but with Cream & Paprika added 3.) Manhattan - the best I've ever had because it's velvety, not water, with great Tomato depth, Potato rounds, Carrots & Celery

Industriel

- sinful, cheesy, bacon 'n veg, Kale with Bacon, Panko, Parmesan, Anchovies & Garlic Bacon Dressing

• 
• 
• 

Enjoy!

Two Restaurant Weeks from LA to Newport Beach

• 
• 

photos courtesy of discoverlosangeles.com and dinenb.com

This week marks the start of not one, but two restaurant weeks from LA to Newport Beach.

From January 19th thru February 1st, eat your heart out with 3-course prix fixe lunches ranging from $10-$25 and dinners from $20-$50.

From New England Seafood to classic Italian, Thai, American, and Mediterranean, here are some dishes you don't want to miss.

The Grubdown

Dine LA Restaurant Week

Connie and Ted's - Jo's Wicked Good Chowda Sampler: 1.) Rhode Island simply stole my heart with straight fragrant Clam Juice, Chicken Broth & Butter 2.) New England was thin not thick and tasted just as good but with Cream & Paprika added 3.) Manhattan was the best I ever had because it wasn't watery, yet velvety with great Tomato depth, Potato rounds, Carrots & Celery $25 Lunch / $40 Dinner

Gusto - simple signature dish with lapable sauce 'n spice, al dente verges on chewy, Tonnarelli Pasta with Tomato & Basil Sauce $40 Dinner

Night+Market - sweet 'n sticky, cornmeal-crusted Hey-Ha Party Chicken Wings with Sliced Green Onions $40 Dinner

Newport Beach Restaurant Week

Canaletto - creamy, fresh & tangy Sant'erasmo Risotto with Shrimp, Crab & Baby Artichokes $40 Dinner

The Crow Bar & Kitchen - breakfast meets burger, The Grandma Jane with Herbed Cream Cheese,  Sliced Red Onion, Vine Ripe Organic Tomato & Onion Sprouts on a Toasted English Muffin $20 Lunch

Fig & Olive - the best of the crudo's because of its hint of citrus yet still understated, Salmon Crudo with Orange, Grapefruit, Dill, Lemon, Scallion & Chateau Leoube Olive Oil $25 Lunch

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Enjoy!

Global comfort food from Sapphire Laguna

• 
• 
• 
• 

As Summer starts to fade and the coziness of Fall rolls in, there's no better place to enjoy globally-inspired comfort cuisine than at Sapphire Laguna Beach.

To give you a taste of world-renowned Chef Azmin Ghahreman's background, he was born in Iran, educated in Switzerland, and seasoned from spice markets and specialty farms all over the world.

In order to truly take it all in, I recommend dining on Sapphire's brick patio, by the fire with sights of the sea.

The Grubdown:

- salty, herbacious, thin 'n greasy in a good way, Home Fried Potato Chips with Sage-Rosemary Sea Salt $4.75

- don't skip out or you'll miss out on these complimentary carbs, warm 'n cheesy, Rosemary Rolls

- sweet 'n tart with perfect pepper, Summer Nectarine Salad with Arugula, Watercress, Crispy Jamon Serrano, Valdeon Blue Cheese & Banyuls Vinaigrette $12

- indulgent yet surprisingly not heavy, Pan Seared Beef Tenderloin & Lobster Ravioli with fresh Creamed Spinach, Wild Mushroom Ragout & Chervil Butter $38

- an elevated version of chicken 'n grits with batter that sticks to your teeth, not your ribs, Buttermilk Fried Half Jidori Chicken with Cheddar Cheese Grits, Green Tomato, Chowchow & Pecan Gravy $27

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Keep in mind the menu changes by season to adhere to whatever comfort you'll be craving from Summer, Fall, Winter, or Spring.

1200 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. 949-715-9888.

Finger Foods & Deli Dishes for your Emmys Party

This Monday marks television's biggest night of the year with the 66th Annual Emmy Awards Show. So celebrate in style, while you're glued to the tube with everything from Tacos & Tapas to Deli Salads & Sushi.

Each of the nominees below offer catering options, so all you have to do is lift your remote control finger.

The Grubdown:

AOC Wine Bar, Tapas

- "i died and went to bacon heaven" salty 'n sweet, more like me-drool, Medjool Roasted Dates Stuffed with Parmesan & Wrapped in Bacon $8

Lemonade, Deli Salads & Stews

- inventive, beautiful balance of sweet 'n soy, Watermelon Radish with Ahi Tuna, Snap Peas, Black Sesame & Ginger $2.75

Loteria Grill, Tacos

- savory, every bite is packed with flavor Carne Deshebrada Tacos with Fresh Guacamole, Salsa Chipotle, and Finely Chopped White Onion & Cilantro

Momed, Modern Mediterranean

- my favorite, must-order, got gobbled down in seconds, spicy, nutty, hint of sweetness, Muhammara Dip with Roasted Red Pepper, Walnuts & Pomegranate

Sushi Roku, Sushi

- a roku classic, creamy aioli, and hard to wrap your mouth around Signature Baked Lobster Roll with Creamy Miso Sauce $19

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

May the best actor win.

The Best Bites of 2013

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Before ringing in the New Year with exciting blog posts to come – like the new Red O in Fashion Island, classic Culina in Beverly Hills, and my all time seafood favorite Son of A Gun in LA – it's time to reflect on the best bites of 2013, chronologically.

The Grubdown:

Juliette Kitchen & Bar - The first in OC to exude the LA dining scene for me with gourmet goodies in cast iron skillets

- genius, healthy whole grain substitute for arborio rice, milky smooth, soft 'n creamy, just needed a touch more cheese, Farro Risotto with Baby Squash, Trumpet Mushrooms, Swiss Chard, Tomatoes & Herbs $11

930 Sushi - Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice is on Happy Hour, 'nuff said

- more than generous portion, like a crunchy hash brown with warm center, then topped with mouth-on-fire Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice with Jalapeno Slice and Sesame Seeds ($3.96 special price)

Hartwood, Tulum, Mexico - Completely outdoor island restaurant vibe with top notch chops

- the star of the show, falls right off the bone, stewed for 6 hours with a secret 3-step process, Pork Rib atop Pickled Vinegar Red Cabbage Slaw   (special)

Connie And Ted's - Authentic Rhode Island seafood from the state-named Chowda to Stuffies

- finally a REAL Rhode Island SPLIT toasted bun Lobster Roll with a ridiculous bounty of Buttery Lobster Chunks that were so tender, they fell apart in my mouth $20

Laurel Hardware - The epitome of the LA scene from celeb sightings to creamy Kale Salads

- if you eat plain kale salad daily you'll enjoy this over-dressed, heavier, creamier, indulgent version, Lollipop Sprouts with Avocado, Pepitas & House Made "Ranch" $12

Mister Parker's, Palm Springs - This kitschy restaurant inside The Parker Hotel knows how to dish up meat

- i've never had lamb so tender, my fork accidentally hit it and the meat fell off the bone, Flinstone size Carre d'Agneau Lamb Shank with Lentils de Puy, Bloomsdale Spinach, and Pomelo Emulsion $38

Carmelita's Kitchen - Finally, some authentic Mexican spice and sauces in OC

- ginormous chunks of pull-apart-tender Pork bathed in spicy red sauce, Tacos Al Pastor with stewed Pineapple, Corn Tortillas, Fresh Chopped Onion & Cilantro $13

Hostaria del Piccolo - From inventive Black Squid Ink Pizza Dough to simple Housemade Tomato Pasta

- simply beautiful recommendation from the waiter, perfectly cooked, surprisingly starchy pasta-water flavor, grainy 'n lightly acidic, Gluten Free Spaghetti with Lentils, Roasted Tomatoes, Arugula, Parmesan & Olive Oil $16

SeaLegs Wine Bar - Ironically, their meat is tastier than their seafood

- must order, everything in one, salty, sweet, pungent, earthy 'n peppery, Pig and Fig Flatbread with Papaya Gastrique, Proscuitto, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Figs, Caramelized Onion, Bleu Cheese, Mozzarella & Arugula on Grilled Flatbread $14

Muddy Leek - So creative & always reliable, I blogged about their organic, sustainable dishes twice

genius from concept to gluten-free rice flour crunch, Cauliflower Croquettes atop housemade Kimchi that balances the creamy $8

Fig & Olive - An exciting way to end the year with a special invite to the grand opening of this clean Mediterranean flavors hot spot

- creamy, woodsy, wondrously al dente, Truffle Risotto with Arborio Rice, Cremini & Black Trumpet Mushrooms, Scallions, Parmesan, Parsley & White Truffle Olive Oil $26

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

After reviewing the best bites from the best restaurants I dined at in 2013, I'm strangely surprised by the meat to seafood ratio (especially since fish is always my first choice.) Just goes to show how high I set the bar when bringing you biters only the finest.

Looking forward to a Happy New Year full of more incredible bites and breaking restaurant news!

Fig & Olive opens with Mediterranean sophistication at Fashion Island

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure of accepting an invitation to "An Evening in France" for the grand opening of the Fig & Olive at Fashion Island, Newport Beach. I'd been to the Melrose Place location before while living in LA. So, when I heard the news that it was traveling down the 405, all I could think was "this is just the type of svelte, sophisticated dining scene Orange County needs."

The Fig & Olive restaurant group hails from New York City with roots in the South of France, where owner & founder, Laurent Halasz, grew up in the Mougins region. During the opening, I bumped into Corporate Chef, Simon Sunwood, at the pass. He said the Newport location is one of the most impressive spaces because of its grandeur and individual rooms. There's 12,000 sq. ft. of French Riviera fabulousness with a natural limestone fireplace patio, dining room with olive trees, main lounge with white stucco walls, and a Crostini Bar. (To add to the chi chi, the night opened with a red carpet step 'n repeat and a Riviera magazine model show.)

I asked Simon about his favorite dish on our tasting menu. He said definitely the Zucchini Carpaccio with Lemon, Pine Nut, Parmesan & Picholine Olive Oil. It's Executive Chef Pascale Lorange's creation. Originally born in Belgium with training in France & Spain, Pascale brings clean flavors of the Mediterranean & simple fresh ingredients to the table. (He's also a good sport too, graciously posing for me in the kitchen, even in the heat of service.)

While we tasted over 15 dishes that night, here's a list of the best bites that even the classiest of guests were impatiently grabbing hot off the pass.

The Grubdown:

- the best of the crudo's because of its hint of citrus yet still understated, Salmon Crudo with Orange, Grapefruit, Dill, Lemon, Scallion & Chateau Leoube Olive Oil $14

- perfectly juicy with a sauce that thankfully wouldn't quit, Chicken Skewer with Grilled Zucchini, Roasted Tomato & Aioli $Special

- creamy, woodsy, wondrously al dente, Truffle Risotto with Arborio Rice, Cremini & Black Trumpet Mushrooms, Scallions, Parmesan, Parsley & White Truffle Olive Oil $26

- amazeballs, 'nuf said, Truffle Mushroom Croquette with Cremini Mushroom, Parmesan, Bechamel & Truffle Olive Oil Aioli $14

- salty 'n sweet with a thick slice of cheese, Manchego, Fig & Marcona Almond Crostini $12 for 3/$21 for 6

- a beautiful marriage of sweet 'n creamy, so simple yet so divine, Goat Cheese, Caramelized Onion & Chive Crostini $12 for 3/$21 for 6

- drunken amaretto crunch that actually made me love something besides chocolate, Dessert Crostini with Amareno Cherries, Mascarpone, Micro Basil & Pistachio Shortbread $8

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

I hope you enjoyed my belated Christmas present to you, a review of Fig & Olive's grand opening.

Cheers to good food, good wine, good health, and good times, which can all be found here, and of course, in the New Year.

Happy Holidays!

151 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660. 949-877-3005.

151 Newport Center Drive
Fashion Island
Newport Beach, CA 92660

Port Restaurant & Bar - Newport Beach Restaurant Week

• 
• 
• 
• 

First photo courtesy of coronadelmartoday.com

Last weekend my friends and I enjoyed a dinner and a movie, right next door to one another, on a 3 day weekend with Newport Beach Restaurant Week prix-fixe deals. (As Borat would say, "Great Success!")

We dined at the Port Restaurant & Bar in Corona del Mar on a 3-course $30 meal that left us satisfied and more than full. Their Mediterranean menu offers everything from Kabobs to Pastas, Seafood and Steak.

On a Saturday night, the place was popping with a lively crowd & live band. Our table was situated near the stage (their bar adjoins the dining room so you can see and hear the entertainment). I'm not gonna lie, we were totally tempted to turn the speaker down a notch to hear each other – that is until the food came.

The Grubdown:

- lightly dressed, sweet essence, Chef's Salad with Mixed Greens, Romaine, Shaved Fennel, Cherry Tomatoes, and Champagne Vinaigrette

- must order, creamy, nutty, feathered texture, sweet 'n savory herb, Butternut Squash Soup with Creme Fraiche & Parsley

- nice crisp sear though a little tough, lots of fixins too, Chilean SeaBass with rustic meaty Mushroom & cheesy Parmesan Risotto, steamed Spinach, crisp Peppers, White Wine Sauce & Balsamic Reduction (Chef's special add $10)

- spicyness overrides the sweetness, sauce has great thickness, Yellow Chicken Curry with Mushrooms, Sundried Tomatoes, Roasted Peppers, cooling Cucumer Raita, Basmati Rice & Pita Slices

- unlike any flavor i've ever tried, very floral, almost like eating perfume but in a strangely good way, Saffron Ice Cream with Pistachios

- looked like a layered work of art up close, spongey with slightly citrus taste, Tiramisu with Chocolate Espresso Dust, Berries & Cream

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

I couldn't tell if it was my detox, or just because it was such a good deal, but our prix-fixe meal left me feeling full until happy hour the next day. Must orders include the Butternut Squash and the SeaBass!

Afterwards, we checked out the new-ish Port Theater. (If you haven't been yet, it's not your ordinary cinema. The floor is flat vs descending, the seats are comprised of backless leather arm chairs & sofas spread about in dollhouse fashion, and there are no cupholders, but heavy metal antique stools instead.)

Enjoy the last of Newport Beach Restaurant Week while you can thru January 27th.

440 Heliotrope Ave., Corona del Mar, CA 92625. 949-723-9685.

Detox your T-Day-tox with Mediterranean Momed

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Indulge too much this past Thanksgiving? Let's not forget about all those leftovers you ate daily and the cocktails you overdid it with friends and family. Not to worry, because Momed (text speak for Modern Mediterranean) has come to the rescue with seasonal, local, organic ingredients.

Step inside and you're surrounded by a white canvas of pristine white tile, tables, and deli cases chock full of mouthwatering colorful Dips, Salads, Tagines, and Turkish Pide Flatbreads. The menu boasts dishes from Athens to Istanbul and Marrakech with wine & beer to back it up.

Whether you're stopping in to pick up Breakfast or Lunch, or settling down for supper, here's what to order.

The Grubdown:

- rich, creamy, and thick Tzatziki Dip with Cucumber & Yogurt

- tastes just like guacamole but with a bean paste texture, Avocado Hummus Dip with Avocados, Tahini, Garlic & Cumin

- cool contrast to the hot chili bite, Persian Cucumbers with Chili & Poppy Seeds

- crisp veggies but dressing was too bland 'n simple, Daily Special Root Salad with Fennel, Carrots, Beets, Potatoes & Dill

- my favorite, must-order, got gobbled down in seconds, spicy, nutty, hint of sweetness, Muhammara Dip with Roasted Red Pepper, Walnuts & Pomegranate

- roasty toasty flavor, not too mushy because the pieces are large, Spicy Oven Roasted Eggplant Dip with Tahini & Urfa Chile

- tender meat but after all those yummy dips it seemed dry and needed more sauce, Duck "Shawarma" with Oven-Dried Tomatoes, Fig, Garlic Spread & Momo Chips $17  

• 
• 
• 
• 

Deli Dip & Salad single servings cost $4.50-$5 for small, $6-$8 for medium, and $12-$15 for large. Do like our group of 5 did and split a couple trio plates for $13.50-$15. (Pitas costs $2.)

Momed's menu offers so much more, like Saganaki Mezze "Small Plates", Lamburgers, Market Fish, Cardamom Carrot Cake – even a kids menu. Their beverages are substantial too with Russian River California Pinots, Lebanese red blends, a few craft brews like Stone's Arrogant Bastard Ale, and Turkish Hammam Tea.

You know I'll be returning, detox or not.

233 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212. 310-270-4444.

Halloween Fright & Bites: LACMA's Tim Burton Exhibit & Ray's

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Lucky for you, Your Next Bite has your Halloween nite all figured out. Monday October 31st is your last chance to see the frightfully popular Tim Burton exhibit at LACMA. That evening, the museum will closes later than usual at midnight, and half price tickets are offered 12am Sunday thru 9am Monday. Take in Tim Burton's early whimsical drawings, read his teachers' critiques, and stare in awe at Edward Scissorhands, Batman, and Beetlejuice costumes.

Afterwards, enjoy a devilishly ghoud meal with Mediterranean-inspired farm-to-table dishes by executive chef Kris Morningstar, as well as impeccable service and quirky tables with built in silverware drawer at the LACMA campus restaurant, Patina Group's Ray's. (Lunch is Noon-3pm, Dinner is 5-10pm.)

The Grubdown:

- cool, silky, zesty Cucumber Avocado Amuse-bouche with Olive Oil drizzle, Lemon Zest & Coarse Salt Crunch

- soft with just the right amount of wood burn, tangy, thick 'n creamy Margherita Flatbread with Fior di Latte Mozzarella, San Marzano Tomatoes & Garden Basil $11 (not pictured because we gobbled it too fast)

- delicate, woodsy, carbolicious, Truffled Rice Stuffed Agnolotti with Hen of the Woods Mushrooms, Wild Arugula, Hazelnuts & Porcini Foam $16 Half, $24 Full

- udderly rich 'n buttery, slightly salty, best to be shared unless this it's all you're eating, Hanger Steak with Pomme Puree, Savoy Cabbage, Sauteed Shallots, Truffle Vinaigrette & Smoked Marrow $24

- a delightful dessert surprise, homemade, fluffy 'n divine, Complimentary "Oreo" Cookie by pastry chef Josh Graves (voted Best New Pastry Chef in LA by Angeleno magazine)

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Reserve your Tim Burton slot and your dinner reservation spot here.

Tasty Meat Food Truck really is and so much more (it's Turkish)

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

When I first heard of the Tasty Meat Food Truck I never once thought it would be serving Turkish food. Instead, I pictured spinning whole roasted chickens, bbq ribs, hamburgers and hot dogs. For the first time I was happy I was wrong.

The Grubdown:

- truly tasty, juicy mix of ground Beef, Lamb & Falafel The Bamwich!!! topped with Romaine, Roma Tomato, Red Onion, Tzatziki, Feta & Tahini Sauces (8" $6, 12" $8)

- almost tastes like chili minus the beef, pungent tangy Feta Fries with Red Feta Spread & Tzatziki ($4)

- soft 'n fluffy, nothin' really special Grilled Cheese Pocketless Pita with Jack & Cheddar ($3)

• 
• 
• 
• 

If you're gonna order 1 thing at Tasty Meat, go big with The Bamwich!!! It really is all that with big flavor from the unbelievably juicy Beef & Lamb. The meat is creatively ground up with an actual Falafel – which you could probably eat by itself, or atop a salad for a healthier mix. It also has big bite from the crisp Red Onion, and is creamy 'n cheesy from the 3 different sauces. My hand model and I split it along with the Fries and Grilled Cheese – but I'm not gonna lie I definitely wanted more than just half, so order one for yourself.

Ok fine, you gotta try the Feta Fries too. If you like Paprika and Red Peppery Spice, then you'll love these. Mixed with Tzatziki, Feta & Red Onion, the combination imparts a chili-like flavor that's addicting. I just wish the Fries were thicker and softer, since they were kinda dry.

As for the Grilled Cheese, it's not anything spectacular, but it is buttery, soft and fluffy which adds extra bonus points in my cookbook.

To get down with the tasty Turkish grub, follow the truck on Twitter @TastyMeat.

And as always, Happy Food Truck Friday.

AOC, an LA institution, celebrates Bastille Day with 45 dollar 3 course Menu

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

If you haven't been to A.O.C. Winebar (opened 2002), then you haven't really been to L.A. We all know in this town restaurants come and go as fast as the next waiter auditioning for a film role – unless they're helmed by powerhouse, James Beard award-winning chef & restaurateur Suzanne Goin, also of Lucques (1998), The Hungry Cat (2005 with husband David Lentz), and most recently Tavern (2009 with A.O.C. partner Caroline Styne).

Now that the History lesson's over, let's learn some French. A.O.C. stands for appellation d'origine de controlee, which literally translates to "controlled destination of origin." Basically, it's a government-certified seal indicating that certain wines, cheeses, and butters come from the region in which they're named – think Cotes du Rhone wine from the Rhone Valley. But, I digress. Now it's time for, you guessed it, Home Economics. 

In honor of Bastille Day, tonight the chef will be preparing a special $45 prix-fixe 3-course meal with Goat Cheese Tartine, Bouillabaisse or Niman Ranch Steak Frites, and Trois Fromage or Beignets. Call 323-653-6359 to reserve your siege.

If you can't make it tonight, here's a few small plates to order next time. (You might develop a serious addiction after trying the mind-blowing Bacon-Wrapped Dates stuffed with Parmesan.)

The Grubdown:

- "i died and went to bacon heaven" salty 'n sweet, more like me-drool, Medjool Roasted Dates Stuffed with Parmesan & Wrapped in Bacon ($6)

- you'll wanna eat your veggies this way every day, spicy 'n creamy Grilled Leeks with Fresh Burrata & Salbitxada Sauce Salad ($14)

- tart 'n bittersweet Seal Bay Triple Creme Brie with Cherries, Hazelnuts & Arugula Salad ($14)

- must-order, mouth-watering, bread-dip worthy Sea Bass with Artichokes, Braised Bacon & Garlic White Wine Sauce ($16) 

- borderline heart attack buttery, nice wine flavor, slightly chewy Hanger Steak with Roasted Shallots & Red Wine Butter Sauce ($18)

- large and in charge Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan & Green Garlic ($12)

- small and pop-worthy, super buttery Crushed Fingerling Potatoes with Creme Fraiche & Chives ($9)

- warm, spongey, hint of citrus Chocolate French Toast with Crushed Hazelnuts & Coffee Ice Cream ($10)

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

I've been to A.O.C. many times over the past 7 years – mostly because their Bacon-Wrapped Dates are unbeatable, and it's one of my favorite spots to take friends who've got a little extra cash flow.

Last week I went for my friend's 30th birthday celebration and immediately had to feed my addiction by ordering the Bacon Wrapped Dates – it's Last Meal On Earth (LMOE) good, seriously. The saltiness and Sinful Fat of the Bacon hits your lips as your teeth pierce through the Crispy Pork and into the Sweet Flesh of the Roasted Medjool Date...ok, I think I'm having a relapse. My hands just left the keyboard to reach for AOC's speedial # on my cell phone. Where was I? Ah yes, the Sweet Date, where wrapped inside is a Treasure Trove of Warm Parmesan. I mean honestly, can you think of anything more delicious? I can't.

Next up, the Grilled Leeks with Burrata. Two of my favorite things married together on one perfect plate? I couldn't resist. The Leeks are tender, and the creaminess of the Fresh Burrata really balances out the surprisingly Spicy Salbitxada Sauce (Blanched & Pan Fried Smokey Almonds, Garlic, Parsley, Tomatoes, Red Wine Vinegar & Bixto Peppers.)

The birthday girl suggested the Seal Bay Triple Creme & Cherry Salad. Tart Dark Cherries in a Sweet Balsamic Wine reduction, Peppery Arugula, Crunchy Hazelnuts & Creamy Bitter Brie – it's one rich dish.

I definitely found a new found love in my new favorite Market Fish dish – tender, flaky, melts in your mouth Sea Bass, Citrusy Artichokes Hearts & Leaves, Sweet Carrot Rounds & as-thick-as-Pork-Belly Braised Bacon, all in a light Garlicky White Wine Sauce, topped with Creme Fraiche & Parsley. What a mouthful! (TIP: You'll probably wanna ask the waitress for extra bread – if not consumed already at the beginning of the meal with their Spicy Olive Tapenade – because you'll want to schlop up all of that White Wine Sauce with Bacon Fat Drippings.)

A good friend of mine, also A.O.C. obsessed, recommended I order the Hanger Steak. The glob of Red Wine Shallot Butter is sweet, rich, and melts right in front of your eyes like a magic trick. Unfortunately, the steak is a little chewy, but it's thinly sliced, and has a full-bodied red wine flavor.

As far as the sides, the large slices of Parmesan on the Asparagus pep it up, and the Green Garlic is a unique addition. The long-cut Chives on the once-again super buttery Fingerling Potatoes add a nice bite, but I could've sacrificed both these dishes for an extra order of Bacon-Wrapped Dates!

For Dessert, the always chocolate loving birthday girl ordered the Chocolate French Toast. If you're looking for dense chocolate cake, you won't be getting it here. Instead, the dish is light and airy with a great Cinnamon-Orange Rind-Coffee flavor that we all enjoyed more than we thought we would.

As you can tell, I can't say enough fabulous things about A.O.C. It's the perfect place for a party on the upstairs rooftop patio, a Cheese & Charcuterie plate at the bar, or a cozy romantic meal in the contemporary, warm dining room.

So Depeche Vu already and Bon Appetit!

8022 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90048. 323-653-6359.

Gourmet Genie Food Truck Whisks you Away to the Mediterranean

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

The Gourmet Genie Food Truck grants your wishes, serving healthy Mediterranean in a sea of food trucks.

The Grubdown:

- yummy, yet cleansing vegetarian Jasmine's Feast with Two Falafels, Stuffed Grape Leaves, Cabbage Salad, Hummus, Baba Ghanoush & Couscous

- garlicky, huge chunks of Chicken Kabob Pita Wrap with Cabbage Salad, Grilled Tomato & Signature Garlic Sauce

- incredible Baklava Bird's Nest with Pistachios & shortbready Madjool Date Cookies

- super spicy, homemade Jalapeno Cherry Tomato Salsa

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

I was pleasantly surprised by the Gourmet Genie, not just for the healthy Mediterranean food they serve, but for the enormous portions and great value that comes along with the magic food truck ride. For $14.50 I split Jasmine's Feast Entree, a hefty Chicken Kabob Pita Wrap & Dessert, and left feeling full with leftovers to boot.

The Jasmine's Feast ($8) definitely is! The 2 Falafel Patties are crunchy on the outside, yet still buttery moist on the inside, and have a thick creamy, slightly bitter citrus sauce that I can't quite put my lamp-rubbing finger on. The Grape Leaves have a bit of crunch on the outside, are stuffed with Lemony Rice, and are oh-so-good. The dollop of Olive Oil and Paprika on the Hummus make it extra dip-worthy. The Baba Ghanoush is kind of unexpected with a thick yogurt, even cream cheese taste, but my hand model (Evan) loved it. The Couscous with Fresh Parsley, Green Onion & Roasted Chickpeas is good, but a little dry. And the Pita Slices are ever so fluffy.

The Cabbage Salad that Jasmine's Feast comes with is very light, perhaps too light, but is very refreshing with Shaved Fennel, Fresh Parsley, Diced Tomato, Red Onion & "Magic Dressing."

The Chicken Kabob Pita Wrap ($6) is huge and so are the garlicky Marinated Grilled Cubes (more like thick rectangles) of Chicken Breast inside. The Garlic Sauce definitely stands out, while the sweetness of the Roasted Tomatoes pop in your mouth. And I can't get over the warm, fluffy, pillowiness of the Pita! The Genie also makes his own super spicy Jalapeno Salsa to dip on the side – use with caution.

The Baklava Bird's Nest ($1.50) with thick, crunchy Pistachios, has buttery flaky Filo Pastry, sweet Honey, and is unbelievable – one of the best Baklavas I've ever had. And the Madjool Cookies ($1.50) are good, but a little dry, and kind of remind me of an old-fashioned jam shortbread cookie.

Follow @GourmetGenie2Go for their next Magic Food Truck Ride on the Miracle Mile at 5700 Wilshire Blvd. for lunch; dinner TBD.