Rate-A-Restaurant #213: Bool BBQ

Restaurant: Bool BBQ

Location: Mobile Truck; 5750 Wilshire Blvd. for this review (Miracle Mile)

Type of restaurant: Korean tacos

We stipulated: The new Variety offices on the 30th floor of the newly dubbed Miracle Mile "Variety Building" offer up great views -- but on the down side, our eating options are even worse than they were in our old digs. And they weren't great then either. With more mobile food trucks stopping in the area, it's getting a little better -- and with that in mind, I decided to visit the copycat Korean taco truck "Bool BBQ" on Monday.

They stipulated: You know the drill: Wait in line, order, and then wait some more.



What I ordered: Two chicken tacos, one pork taco ($1.99 each).



High point: The spice is great -- and despite the kim chee, I didn't suffer any aftertaste throughout the afternoon. (Can't vouch for what the people I spoke to might have noticed.) he chicken, in particular, was also cooked well.

Low point: The Bool BBQ menu is very limited; and somewhat confusingly, isn't only Korean and Mexican. The truck also sells Brazilian pastels.




Overall impression: It's easy to just dismiss the Korean taco trucks that have popped up in the wake of Kogi's success... but there's definitely room for Bool, which offers up tasty Korean-inspired tacos at -- and this is the important part -- a fraction of the time in line. I waited only about five minutes for my food -- not a bad advantage of the always-packed Kogi.




Chance we'll go back: Absolutely; it's a nice change of pace from the same mix of Koo Koo Roo/Johnny's/Baja Fresh/O to Go in that part of the Miracle Mile.

Rate-A-Restaurant #212: Cliffs Edge

Restaurant: Cliffs Edge

Location: 3626 Sunset Blvd. (Silver Lake)

Type of restaurant: Italian/Mediterranean

We stipulated: For the tenth anniversary of the day we first met, Maria and I decided heading back to the Good Luck Bar wouldn't work out -- Maria's eight months pregnant, after all, and that wouldn't probably come off well. Instead, we opted to venture close by.

They stipulated: Cliffs Edge is almost entirely outdoor seating -- but permanent heat lamps hover above.



What we ordered: Barramundi with Sugar Snap Peas & Jasmin Rice, along with Lemon Grass Jalapeño Broth ($24); Pan-seared California white sea bass with mashed potatoes and broccolini, along with butter corn sauce ($25). Salad: “Cliff’s” Caesar Salad --Classic Caesar with Shaved Reggiano & Anchovy & Garlic Crostini. Mike drink: Jalapeno margarita ($12).



High point: My fish was moist, and the rice had a nice hint of coconut. The hint of lemon in the salad was also nice.

Low point: Maria's fish was a bit too dry.


Barramundi with sugar snap peas

Overall impression: While the food is just OK, the Cliffs Edge setting helps make up for most of those shortcomings. Surrounding a massive tree and with greenery throughout, the restaurant is a great outdoor setting -- especially at dusk. Service was good, except at the start -- when we were greeted by a gruff maitre'd, followed by the employee who took us to our table -- and reeked of body odor. Yuk. Thankfully, it got better from there.


Pan-seared California white sea bass

Chance we'll go back: Perhaps for another special occasion.

Rate-A-Restaurant #211: Max Tribeca

Restaurant: Max Tribeca

Location: 181 Duane St. (New York)

Type of restaurant: Southern Italian

We stipulated: For our last night in New York, we didn't want to stray too far from our Battery City hotel. With no obvious choices there, we scoped out Tribeca. Maria was in the mood for Italian -- and Max popped up high on our search.

They stipulated: "Most pastas are already finished with cheese. Please inquire when ordering."



What we ordered: Spaghetti del Marinaio (homemade black spaghetti with shrimp in spicy tomato sauce; $14.95); Fettuccine al sugo Toscano (homemade fettuccine with Max's tomato meat sauce; $11.95); for Evan, Pollo Capriccioso (breaded chicken cutlet; $7.95)



High point: They definitely don't skimp on the sauce. Meanwhile, the seating was immediate, the service was quick, the environment was great and the food decent -- not the best Italian we've ever had, but it hit the spot.

Low point: Some attention to detail was missing, however; we asked for butter early on, but it never came. Also, the dessert selection was disappointing.



Overall impression: Time Out NY has called Max the best affordable Italian restaurant in New York, and I believe it. The prices are strong, and it's a great environment without being too upscale. We were happy to see a children's menu, and pleased with the service.



Chance we'll go back: If we were there, it'd be a great place to return again with Evan -- a nice adult restaurant that is still kid-friendly.

Rate-A-Restaurant #210: The Kati Roll Co.

I may have to put my Dunkin' Donuts pursuit in order to lobby for something even more pressing: We need to introduce the Kati Roll Co. to Los Angeles.



After all, we gave them Pinkberry (for better or for worse; I don't mind the stuff, even though it's horribly overpriced), so it's time for a return gesture.

The Kati Roll is a street food that is simple to produce, but is quite elaborate in taste. According to the New York-based chain, a Kati Roll is "a spicy mixture of meat and vegetables rolled in Indian flat-bread." It's great for a quick snack or a meal. And the locations are open late.



Our friends Hank and Lisa turned us on to The Kati Roll Co. while in New York last month; we were immediately sold. The partha flat-bread was nice and thin, and the fillings had a nice, flavorful kick. Most fillings could come with or without egg; although the egg added more flavor and heft to the fillings, i was actually fine without.

Varieties we chose included the Aloo Masala roll (spicy potato mix), $4.25 (or two for $7.50); the Achari Paneer roll (Indian cottage cheese marinated in spicy pickle), $5.25 (or two for $9.50); the Chicken roll ($4.75, or two for $8.50).



The Kati Roll Co. has been around since 2002, so I'm embarrassed I'm only learning about it now. Coming back to Los Angeles, I checked all over the Internet to find a similar joint. Pasadena's Akbar Cuisine claims to a Chicken Kati Roll... but we haven't investigated to see if it's similar just yet.



So far the chain has just three locations: Two in New York and one in London. C'mon, folks, let's speed it up. Los Angeles is waiting!

Rate-A-Restaurant #209: New York Hot Dog & Coffee (a.k.a. Korean Hot Dogs)

Restaurant: New York Hot Dog & Coffee

Location: 245 Bleecker Street (New York)

Type of restaurant: Korean hot dogs



We stipulated: In New York, we were telling our friend Michelle about the magic of Kogi's Korean tacos. "Well," she asked us, "have you heard about the Korean hot dogs?" Nope. We were intrigued. A bulgogi hot dog? Tell us more! Luckily, on our final day in NYC, Michelle was free for lunch. And she worked close to New York Hot Dog & Coffee. Good enough for us.

They stipulated: There are more than just Korean hot dogs at New York Hot Dog & Coffee; and, strangely, their other specialty is Belgian Waffles. Seriously. Also, for $2 more, the meal deal includes a small soda and either spicy fries, chips or a frozen yogurt. Yikes. Too much food.



What we ordered: Kimchi-Bulgogi Hot Dog ($6.50) for me; Bulgogi hot dog ($5.99) for Maria; Bulgogi wrap with rice ($6.50) for Michelle; and a plain hot dog ($3.25) for Evan.



High point: I'm not a big meat-on-meat fan. But I make an exception when there's a big draw or something unusual. And I was so intrigued by the idea of bulgogi and kimchi on a hot dog, I was sold. And you know what? It was good. But possibly the highest point was afterward: I had no regrets. (That time I ate at Oki-Dog in L.A.? Big regrets. Here? Not at all.)

Low point: The temperature of the bulgogi and the hot dog just wasn't hot or steamy enough. That probably would have led to a more flavorful experience.




Overall impression: I say "no regrets," but I don't think I'd rush back and get a Bulgogi hot dog too soon again. It still seems like a bit too much. But I do like that they offer up chicken items and a variety of sausages for non-bulgogi fans.

Most importantly, though, I gotta take issue with the name of the joint. Apparently New York Hot Dog & Coffee actually originated in South Korea, where the name makes sense -- they're trying to add a little New York hot dog culture to a society that doesn't see that every day. Of course, moving it to the actual New York, it just sounds kinda generic. The name doesn't do it justice, but I guess visiting Koreans will be familiar with the name and logo..

Chance we'll go back: Once you've tried it, you've tried it. We'd probably hit a different unique NY eatery next time.

Rate-A-Restaurant #208: Barbrix

Restaurant: Barbrix

Location: 2442 Hyperion Ave. (Silver Lake)

Type of restaurant: Tapas/wine bar



We stipulated: Continuing our monthly "date night" trend of trying new restaurants in the neighborhood, we excitedly booked an early evening dinner at Silver Lake's Barbrix. We'd been reading a lot about the spot -- including the owners' struggles in getting the proper permits to open in the first place -- and wanted to check it out ourselves.



They stipulated: It's tapa-style small plates -- so share quite a few. As for parking, Barbrix has a deal with Baller Hardware to use their lot across the street. But park on the street to avoid valet charges.



What we ordered: Hamachi crudo (ginger creme fraiche, avocado and paprika oil; $9); shrimp & chickpea flour tortillas (with cilantro tzatziki; $6); "barely buzzed" cheese (espresso & lavender rubbed cows milk; $4); soppressata (coarsely ground pork, sweetly spiced; $5); crispy grilled polenta (oyster & shiitake mushrooms and creamy gorgonzola fonduta; $5); monkfish (with chickpeas and chorizo; $9).





High point: I really enjoyed those shrimp/chickpea tortillas. And the espresso cheese was quite interesting, in a very good way.



Low point: Didn't think much of the polenta, to tell you the truth.




Overall impression: Quite a nice addition to the Silver Lake/Los Feliz dining scene. Prices are right, wine pairings are strong, the menu selections are fantastic.



Chance we'll go back: Absolutely, we will return.

Rate-A-Restaurant #207: Momofuku Ssam

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Restaurant: Momofuku Ssam

Location: 207 2nd Ave. (New York)

Type of restaurant: Asian fusion



We stipulated: In New York, we wanted to splurge at least once. We'd been hearing about Momofuku for years, obviously, but never had been. Several people recommended it to us.. although most, I think, were referring to the Momofuku noodle bar. In researching the three different Momofuku restaurants, I kept reading that most foodies preferred the Ssam bar above the others. Most importantly, the signature Momofuku pork bun was available here too -- so at the very least, we would still get a taste of Momofuku's most notable dish.



They stipulated: Momofuku Ssam doesn't take reservations. It's also connected to the Momofuku milk bar, which is a fine place to wait for a table (make sure you get a free sample of soft serve).

What we ordered: Steamed pork buns – hoisin, cucumbers, scallions (2 orders, $9 each); Angus hanger steak – tarragon, manchego, potatoes ($26); Roasted diver sea scallops – sea beans, gremolata, anchovy ($24)




High point: The pork buns -- just as hyped, with fall-off-the-bone pork. The pork is nice and fatty, and meshes nicely with the pickles and cucumber, as well as the hoison sauce. There was also a decent sour cream tang to the potatoes and an interesting seasoning on the chips.

Low point: There was nothing all that special about the hangar steak (except for the crust), especially given the price.




Overall impression: Overpriced, yes, but still worth a trip. Those pork buns are fantastic, although you need to order at least two servings. By the way, I was perhaps more impressed with the Momofuku Milk Bar. Soft-serve flavors included several candies, such as Red Hots, Gummi Worm and more -- interesting stuff.

Chance we'll go back: If we were in New York, probably -- especially if we were with a group. Otherwise, we'd try the other Momofukus next.

Rate-A-Restaurant #206: Bottega Louie

Restaurant: Bottega Louie



Location: 700 S. Grand (Downtown)

Type of restaurant: Italian/Market



We stipulated: It was monthly date night for Maria and I, so once again we wanted to try something new -- and when I put the word out on Facebook for suggestions, Bottega Louie was mentioned. Cool new restaurant downtown? Done.



They stipulated: Bottega Louie is already being called L.A.'s version of Dean & Deluca. Except that D&D doesn't have a bar. The huge Bottega Louie gives you several options: Sit down dinner. Fully stocked bar. Pre-packaged food items. Or a massive case of prepared foods and desserts.




What we ordered: Bianco pizza, $14 (ricotta, mozzarella, granna parmesan, garlic and rocket arugula); portobello fries, $8; caesar salad, $9 (romaine hearts, reggiano parmesan, garlic herbed croutons and caesar dressing); stuffed artichoke, $8.




High point: Those portobello fries are worth the trip right there.



Low point: Pizza was decent, but only so-so when you compare it to the explosion of strong pizzerias in L.A.




Overall impression: At a place like Bottega Louie, you can forgive the pizza for being only so-so. The environment itself is amazing -- high ceilings, stark white walls, a nice airy feel that makes you feel like you're in the middle of a lively, bustling urban center. This place definitely fits the downtown vibe. And the staff is uber-friendly -- almost too much so. The prices are decent too, and run the range. As you can see above, we decided to go economical; there are also pricier $23 fish dishes and $33 steaks... but this fed us just fine.





Chance we'll go back: Absolutely, it was a nice date night location, but looks to also be a great spot to meet up with friends. Plus, I read elsewhere that the breakfast is also worth another trip.

Rate-A-Restaurant #205: Sweets for the Soul

(Flickr pic by Atwater Village Newbie.)

Restaurant: Sweets for the Soul

Location: 3169 Glendale Blvd. (Atwater Village)

Type of restaurant: Dessert

We stipulated: Evan and I were shopping for a Mother's Day present in Atwater Village (support your local businesses, especially in this economy!) on Friday afternoon, when we walked by Sweets for the Soul. The shop, which specializes in brownies, seems to always be closed when we're in the neighborhood. Given that we finally happened to be passing by while the doors were open, we had no choice but to check it out. Evan didn't object.

They stipulated: Cupcakes be damned. Sweets for the Soul is all about the brownies. Sure, they also offer a lemon pudding cake and a flourless pecan cookie. But you came for the brownies.


"Brownie Bliss"

What we ordered: Hot Shot brownie ($3.50): Valrhona Venezuelan dark chocolate base layered with spices such as chili, cardamon, cinnamon, ginger and more. Brownie Bliss ($3): Creamy chocolate square with toasted pecans. Cocoa Bliss ($3.75): More of cake-like texture of cocoa and chocolate chips.


"Hot Shot"

High point: Seeing how I love spice -- and love the combo of dark chocolate and chili pepper -- this was made for me. Rich in every bite.

Low point: But there weren't too many of those bites. And here we get to the real problem of Sweets for the Soul: Their brownies are tiny. Particularly given what you pay for them, the portions are shockingly small.


"Cocoa Bliss"

Overall impression: Love the brownie, hate the price. At least at cupcake stores, for $3.50 you get a humungous treat that can't (or shouldn't, at least) be eaten in one sitting. Here, we plopped down more than $10... for three tiny brownies that fit neatly in a small, small bag.

Chance we'll go back: I gotta say, I loved that Hot Shot brownie -- named because of its small, cylinder appearance. But there's so little value in the brownies, I'm afraid I won't be rushing back. Which is too bad, because it's the kind of store that would make for a great Atwater VIllage stop. But it's just too specialized and pricy for it to be a regular stop.

Rate-A-Restaurant #204: Cook's Tortas

Restaurant: Cook's Tortas

Location: 1944 S. Atlantic Blvd. (Monterey Park)

Type of restaurant: Latin Sandwiches



We stipulated: Hungry for lunch on a Saturday afternoon, we decided to try some place new. I'd been curious about Cook's Tortas since Pat raved about it on her site, and decided we'd make a trek out to Monterey Park.




They stipulated: Certain sandwiches are always on the menu, while others rotate. They're all made fresh to order. Oh, and you've got to drive out to Monterey Park to satisfy your craving.



What we ordered: Cucumber-lime aqua fresca; Mole verde sandwich (Pepita tomatillo, Chicken breast, Onion, Avocado); Bacalao sandwich (Spanish style cod, Roasted red peppers, Olive, Garlic, Parsley, Potato). On our second visit (!) we brought sandwiches over to a friend's house, so we bought four. In addition to the Bacalao (easily our favorite from the first round), we got the La Diabla sandwich (Chicken breast, Jalapeno, Chile de arbol, Habanero, Guacamole); Chicken basil sandwich (Chicken breast, Lettuce, Tomato, Basil pesto, Fresh cucumber); Cochinita sandwich (Achiote pork, Onion escabeche, Black beans, Cilantro). We also got a pineapple-celery aqua fresca. All sandwiches are $6.98 come with a side, such as red fries, potato salad, macaroni salad, caprese cucumber salad, among others.



High point: Oh, that soft, easy-to-eat bread! Not only are the sandwiches great, but the sheer variety of choices (see the blackboard photo above) is amazing. And the price makes the drive worth it. Even Evan liked the bacalao (and, the second time around, the Chicken basil). The La Diabla was super spicy, even for me, yet I'm still glad I tried it.

Low point: At one point, someone cleaned the tables with Windex right next to us... which left an unfortunate odor as we ate our sandwiches. The fries are also just OK; I'd recommend one of the salads instead (like the cucumber one, below).



Overall impression: Like Pat mentions on her blog, Cook's Tortas is the kind of place that I wished popped up all over L.A. -- or at least, closer to home. If we had one of these close to the office, it might be a little dangerous -- I'd probably eat there every day.



Chance we'll go back: Well, we've already been back once, and we'll probably continue to head down the 5-to-the-60-to-Atlantic-Blvd. in order to eventually try every sandwich!

Rate-A-Restaurant #203: Little Dom's

Restaurant: Little Dom's

Location: 2128 Hillhurst (Los Feliz)

Type of restaurant: Italian



We stipulated: My parents were in town -- and it happened to be a Monday night. Since we're trying to be budget-minded, like everyone, and we'd been wanting to check out Little Dom's for some time, it made sense to finally check out their Monday night recession menu.




They stipulated: Monday nights are jam-packed at Little Dom's -- and you better reserve a table days beforehand. Otherwise, you'll be eating at 9:30 p.m.




What we ordered: The $15 prix fixe menu: Salad, gnocchi pasta, dessert (vanilla gelato with caramel sauce). Also: $10 bottle of house red wine.



High point: Did I mention the $10 bottle of house red? A nice recessionary bargain. Actually, the whole dinner was an economic treat. Although the food wasn't anything fantastic, it was quite the deal. We did really enjoy the hearty salad, including the veggies and cheese.

Low point: Did that menu sound uninspiring? It's because by the time we arrived at 9:30, the prix fixe items were gone. So instead we were given substitutes for the pasta and dessert. The gnocchi, for example, was supposed to include sausage; but with the restaurant out of sausage, we were given meat sauce. Not the same thing. Good. But not the same.



Overall impression: Little Dom's is the relatively new sister to old Rat Pack hangout Dominick's in West Hollywood; it definitely has its own cool vibe. And the $15 Monday night meal is a keeper.



Chance we'll go back: We definitely want to hit the Little Dom's Monday night Supper again; this time, though, we'll call days in advance. $10 wine bottle, here we come!

Rate-A-Restaurant #202: Nickel Diner

Restaurant: The Nickel Diner

Location: 524 S. Main (Downtown)




Type of restaurant: Diner



We stipulated: We were planning to meet up with Friend of Franklin Avenue Eric Lynxwiler for breakfast... and I suggested Philippe's, since I love their fluffy fluffy pancakes. But then I discovered that it was the weekend of the Chinese New Year Parade, and figured we should probably avoid the Chinatown traffic. We'd been wanting to try the Nickel Diner, so that actually opened the door to try something new.




They stipulated: Sorry folks, this is 2009 -- nothing costs a nickel. (Above, that's an uncovered mural from long ago, not an actual menu from now.) Meanwhile, as they grow the business, for now the Nickel Diner is open just for breakfast and lunch, on Wednesdays through Sunday.




What we ordered: Mike (above) Not-quite-vegan Ranchero -- grilled tofu on tortillas with beans, cheese, avocado and salsa; $9.25



Maria: Polenta with maple syrup and a choice of bacon (which she chose), chicken apple sausage or ham; $5.50



Evan: Buttermilk pancakes (3); $6.50

and, of course, we bought to go...



Nickel Diner's famed Maple Glaze Bacon Donut.



High point: There was something tasty about that tofu (yes, for breakfast; I know, I like weird things) -- and I was actually pleased that they put regular cheese on it, although had I been vegan, I would have been concerned over the fact that it wasn't soy cheese, as billed in the menu. (Again, fine with me.) It's an interesting menu.

Low point: Well, I did find a hair in my dish -- but was hungry enough to let it go. (I'm very forgiving, apparently. Didn't even mention it to the waiter, perhaps because we were with someone and I didn't want to make a fuss.) I could have also used more coffee; my cup went empty for long periods of time.



Overall impression: There's a lot of promise in the Nickel Diner, and I'd love for it to evolve into Los Angeles' version of SF's Dottie's True Blue Cafe, one of our favorite eateries up there (and, coincidentally, also in a slightly sketchy neighborhood). Parking's a big problem, especially now that the city has upped the price of meters (we lucked out and parked at a broken one). And we could have used a bit more -- a bit more bacon, a bit more coffee.

Chance we'll go back: Yes, as I like the idea of the Nickel Diner a lot -- and would like to try more items before giving up on it. The Dutch Baby pancake sounds great, as does the french toast and blueberry pancakes... so I'll be back. Eventually.

Rate-A-Restaurant #201: The Park

Restaurant: The Park

Location: 1400 Sunset Blvd. (Echo Park)

Type of restaurant: Modern American



We stipulated: It was another rare date night, as Evan was accounted for until 10 p.m. We didn't want to stray too far from home, and also didn't want to spend too much. I'd heard good things about the Park -- and Maria remembers briefly talking to the owners while strolling by during the Great Los Angeles Walk last November.

They stipulated: Reservations aren't necessary, except for groups over 6. Also, unfortunately, it's no longer BYOB at the Park. The restaurant doesn't yet have its beer and wine license, but had been letting diners bring their own booze -- until the city cracked down. Damn city.




What we ordered: Appetizer: Mini Cornmeal Pancakes, $9 (with seared shrimp, chipotle butter, roasted tomato salsa and Mexican crema). Maria: Linguine with white clam sauce, $12. Mike: Albacore Duo, $18 (Albacore crusted with ground coriander and black pepper, grilled with blood orange sauce, and Albacore braised in olive oil tossed with potatoes, shaved fennel, parsley leaves and meyer lemon, served with grilled asparagus).



High point: We had a hard time deciding between the cornmeal pancakes or the szechuan fried calamari as an appetizer; I think we chose wisely -- although I wish they hadn't taken the "mini" so literally. As for the entrees, the seasonings were amazing -- the pepper on the Albacore was perfectly seasoned, and the white clam sauce offered up a nice spice as well.

Low point: There's something about being denied BYOB that made me want to BYOB even more. Sure hope they get things resolved soon, as a nice glass of wine would have nicely complemented the dinner.



Overall impression: Friendly staff, low-key environment, nice place. Talk about a great L.A. experience -- they were even playing Dengue Fever when we entered. As we dined, a family came in with their little girl, dressed as a princess. Apparently they're regulars -- as we left, the owners showed us pictures drawn by the girl, taped on the wall. But most importantly, the prices are great -- and that goes pretty far in this economy. With places like the Park, I don't get why anyone would choose a chain restaurant over this.

Chance we'll go back: Yes, and I'm thinking we could bring Blogger Preschooler -- and perhaps meet up with another family too.

Rate-A-Restaurant #200: Pacific Dining Car

(Photo by Ellen Bloom.)

Restaurant: Pacific Dining Car

Location: 1310 West 6th Street (Downtown)

Type of restaurant: Steakhouse



We stipulated: For our sixth blogiversary and our 200th Rate-A-Restaurant review, we decided to keep up with the tradition we started with our 100th (when we threw a luncheon at Cole's) and hit another L.A. landmark. Like Cole's, which we'd never eaten at until our 100th, it had to be an instituion where we'd somehow never dined. Despite my 13 years in L.A. and Maria's 25 years here (hey wait a sec, that sounds like another good excuse to party), neither of us had ever set foot inside the Pacific Dining Car.

That was about to change. Coincidentally, a friend of mine, Todd Beck, hails from the fourth generation family that still owns and operates the PDC. I called up Todd -- and he got me in touch with PDC manager Nick Lerner and chef Michel Cornu, who put together a prix fixe menu just for the occasion.

As you know, we then put out the call for diners -- and got a great group of more than 20 bloggers and blog fans on Saturday to join us. My only stipulation to them? Write their own review, in our Rate-A-Restaurant style. We'll be adding links to their reviews at the bottom of this post in the coming days.



They stipulated: The prix fixe menu would come to $40 with tax -- but tipping and drinks were extra. PDC also comped our parking, which was a nice touch. The restaurant also set up a dining room and printed menus just for the event. Normally, the meal would have cost much more than that -- the PDC, as any of you who've dined there know, is not cheap. But the restaurant was able to absorb some of the cost thanks to the marketing opportunity of the event (after all, several bloggers are in the process of writing their own reviews!)


My favorite artwork in the place -- photo by Ellen Bloom.

What we ordered: As you may gather from the menu photo, the $40 prix fixe included: Appetizer -- Grilled Jumbo Shrimp with Spring Mix Salad & Mango Beet Dressing; Entree -- Petit Filet Mignon (I got mine medium rare) and Monkfish with Lobster Sauce with Vegetable Medley; and Dessert -- Strawberry and Vanilla Vacherin / Compote of Seasonal Berries



High point: The steak and the fish were both incredible. I'm not sure what possessed me to get the filet grilled medium rare (I usually go medium), but I'm glad I did. Tender, with a nice crispy crust. And I've never been a huge monkfish fan, but I'm now a convert. The salad was also nice and hearty, almost like an entree salad; and the vacherin, a nice mix of cold and crunch. Needless to say, my plates went away clean.

Low point: The entree's vegetable medley was surprisingly sweet, which was a bit too much after the sweetness of the salad and before the sweetness of dessert. And it pains me to pay $7 for a side order of fries... but it made the Blogger Preschooler happy. (Although, rather than eat them, he preferred dunking them in water. Ahh, four-year-olds!)



Overall impression: This was probably one of the more unusual events the PDC had to put on in a while -- a luncheon for bloggers?! But no need to worry: Everyone was on top of their game. The kitchen, the wait staff, the entire operation had a very, very good day. Here's what makes that even more impressive: Somehow we got our wires crossed, and it wasn't until Friday that the PDC realized that our event was the following day. The scramble to accommodate us meant having to tweak the menu -- and yet they pulled it off, no problem.

Now, as to the restaurant: Maria was definitely impressed with the environment; the place is even classier inside than expected, and it's pretty cool that a portion of the restaurant is still inside an old railway car. I love the fact that the PDC is open 24 hours a day -- in case you're in the mood for a classy steak dinner at 3 a.m.!



Chance we'll go back: The PDC will definitely be on our "special occasions" list. But more immediately, I keep hearing great things about their breakfast -- so we'll probably do that sometime soon!



Thanks to everyone who attended, including Scott and friend, Shannon and Mai, Sean and Pamela, Mika, Ellen and Larry, Chris and Kristin, Eric and Nicholle, Scott, Celia and Jim, Erin and Katie, and Todd. Special thanks to Shannon, who let me use her camera when ours died -- ack, the blogger's worst nightmare!

Here are other reviews from the day:

Ellen Bloom: "The meal was beautifully served and everything was completely delicious; the service was spot-on; the ambiance is clubby and classic; the company was amiable and amusing."

Tropico Station: "The medium-rare filet mignon was superb, which is certainly fitting from a restaurant with a giant steer mounted on their sign."

Meeko On Main: "The waitstaff was amazingly good! Highly efficient and attentive. The atmosphere of the place is high end but not pretentious."

More to come -- send your links to me!

For a complete list of our nearly 200 restaurant reviews, check out our companion Rate-A-Restaurant site.

Rate-A-Restaurant #199: Palate

Restaurant: Palate Food + Wine

Location: 933 S. Brand (Glendale)

Type of restaurant: New American/Wine Bar



We stipulated: For a rare night on the town -- Evan's preschool had a "parents night out" event, allowing us to have a date night -- we decided to nonetheless keep things local.


Pork Belly

They stipulated: Sample from the multi-course menu, especially first-time patrons. That includes a mason jar; something pickled; and a few regular-sized plates. Also, in a nod to budget-minded diners, no entree is over $20.



What we ordered: Fall caponata ($5). Potted poulet rillette (mason jar; $5). Pickled root vegetables ($3). Winter lettuce ($10), Gnocchi ($10); Scallops ($13); Pork Belly ($17).



High point: The gnocchi was incredible, while the richness of the potted poulet was nice. We also liked the under-$20 ethos, and enjoyed quite friendly service. Also, the caponata had a nice flavor.

Low point: A lot has been said about the pork belly at Palate... but, at least the night we were there, it was just OK. Also, the pickled veggies selection was tiny... and it felt a bit like they were rushing us.



Overall impression: When we moved to Glendale five (!) years ago, I was struck by the lack of any decent choices. The whole dining revolution appeared to have passed over Glendale -- but lately, the tide is turning, thanks to spots like Palate and Bashan. Palate is a nice addition to the Glendale scene -- and the wine shop/wine bar in the back is an excellent use of space. (The Palate building, once upon a time a storage building, is now a massive wine vault.)


Scallops

Chance we'll go back: That under $20 rule still adds up over time, making it quite a pricy endeavor. But for special occasions, or even just to check out the wine bar, we will return.