Saturday, December 10, 2005

Philippe the Original + + + $

Where? Alameda and Ord
Who? Koji, Howie, Andrew

French dip beef sandwiches with blue cheese, beef stew, cherry pie and a lemonade.

Cha Cha Cha + + + + $ $

Where? Virgil and Melrose
Who? Andrew and Sushu

Jerk Chicken in a Carribean festive hut.

Who? Whole bunch of CASA people

Seafood paella is good. Sangria makes me happy.

Tuesday, December 06, 2005

Cheebo * * * * * $$

Who? Themos, Dimitri, Hlias
Where? Sunset Blvd, Hollywood
How much? $37
Zagat: 19, $22

I loved this place from the moment I walked into it. It's not like the big LA restaurants. Rather, it features only 20 or so tables, a very slow service but top class food. Everything is organic, and these people bring only these first class materials for their food which makes the dishes undeniably delicious. They also feature orange(!) walls, live music, and a lot of handsome guys and pretty girls as customers. I tried the pizza and it was truly great, probably the best pizza I had in LA so far. It is unlike any other pizza I've ever tried.

Sunday, November 20, 2005

The Counter + + + + $

Who? Sushu, Michellios, Howie, Andrew
Where? Ocean Park and 28th, Santa Monica

Burgers really done your way.

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

A Thousand Cranes + + + + $$

Who? Steier Research Group
Where? J-Town, Los Angeles and 2nd (Otani Hotel)

Sunday, November 13, 2005

Thai Plate + + + $

Who? Jenn Jenn, Koji, Howie, Andrew
Where? Pico and Western

Shady looking place... we didn't eat there -> takeout. Pretty decent Thai food. Red Chicken Curry was good as was the Golden Stick and the fried wontons. They will deliver to USC.

Saturday, November 05, 2005

Il Capricio on Vermont * * * * $$

Who? Themos, Dimitri
Where? Opposite of Dresden, Hollywood
How much? $20
Zagat: * * * *, $27

That was the first place we tried following the Zagat guide only. Initially it looks like a hole in the wall, the decor is not the best but the food is absolutely first class. These guys have the best bread I've tried so far in LA, plus very fresh pastas. I don't need much more than that :-)

Thursday, November 03, 2005

Woo Ri Jip + + + + $$

Where? Pico, between Oxford and Western
Who? 30 odd CASA people

Saturday, October 29, 2005

Taix * * * , + + + + + $$

Who? Adam M and Andrew
Where? Alvarado and Sunset
How much? $25
Zagat: * * *, $27

Andrew's Take: This is one great date place... but even then, it's actually too intense for a first date. Not knowing what we were in for, Adam and I entered the dimly lit restaurant to words like: "Whoa... ", ... "Uh..." It was actually quite funny because there was a woman who heard us talking and chimed in with... "Yea... it's our first time here too."

But the food is excellent and is served either a la carte or with an ensemble meal. With the meal, for $20, you can get some very tasty clam chowder with a garden salad, your main entree and some sorbet. When they bring the soup to your table, they bring out the whole pot - and you wonder if you're supposed to eat it all because they just leave it there with a ladle. The paella I had was very flavourful and generous with little ocean goodies. If the meal is coupled with a bottle of wine, general good times can be had... It is because of all these reasons that this place gets the coveted 5+ rating. Service is very pleasant. Valet is $2.50 and necessary since there is no parking anywhere to be found around.

Themo's Take: This is a nice french restaurant (circa 1927). It serves good food, but there are some details that force a 3 star rating instead of a 4 star one: the lights are too dim; the mashed potato is not "real"; the portions are not great. The quality of teh meats is above average though, which makes it a restaurant worth trying.

Wednesday, October 26, 2005

Maggiano's Little Italy * * * * $$

Who? Themos, Erdem, Bing, Xiaodong
Where? 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO (Also at the Grove in LA)
How much? $15
Zagat: * * *, $27

The best thing in italian restaurants is the beggining: the bread and oil (or combinations and variations of them). Maggiano's has low (extremely low!) lit atmosphere, Sinatra music (or similar) and very friendly service. After Xiaodong mistakingly ordered and ate the $27 filet mignion, he pointed out that he has ordered the $21 10oz one although they brought him the 16oz one. They immediately charged him for the 10oz filet. Overall the portions were very generous, not suited for asians :-)

Sunday, October 23, 2005

Koji's Japan + + + $$

Who? Lots of CASA people
Where? Hollywood and Highland

Decent shabu shabu.

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Bravo Pizzeria * * $

Who? Themos, Panos, Sotiris, Xouros, Dafni
Where? Main Street, Santa Monica
How much? $3
Zagat: * * *, $21

This Zagat-rated place has really great pizza, with fresh ingedients and big selections. However I cannot place more than 2 stars because 1) It's not italian, but NY style instead 2) It's not a restaurant, but rather a on-the-go and/or delivery place. The huge plus is that they stay up very late (=after midnight) so it's an excellent option if you are hungry and happen to be around.

Sunday, October 09, 2005

Rock Bottom * * $$

Who? Themos, Ivan, Dimitri, Alexandra
Where? Long Beach
How much? $10

These guys are serious about their beer (of course, that's my worst drink ever). I like American Style restaurants because they have huge booths and a good balance between noisy atmosphere, music, and friendly staff. The food was not great but then again, when did an american restaurant had good food? Or, who goes to american restaurants for the food anyway?!

Tuesday, October 04, 2005

JJ Cafe + + + $

Where? Monterey Park
Who? SiGung and Lo Han Kung Fu Club

Sunday, October 02, 2005

California Pizza Kitchen + + + + $$

Where? Fig and 7
Who? MichelleP, Shusan, Howie, Kenny, Andrew

Pizza is good.

Monday, September 26, 2005

Crane Sushi + + + +/ $

Who? CASA board 05-06
Where? Alhambra

Extra + for value.

Sunday, September 25, 2005

Macaroni Grill * * * * / + + + + $$

Who? Rajay, Tatsuzo, Steve, Andrew
Where? El Segundo, Rosencranz & Aviation
Zagat: * * *, $22

Andrew's take: First of all, thanks to TATSUZO for suggesting this restaurant. A nice dining environment with both booths and tables (suitable for a date) and operatic singing waiters. You can snack solely on the bread appetizers, which are spongy and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, and then pack up half your dinner to go. Don't forget to soak the bread in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The sangria was very refreshing, but very watered down with ice - so even 1L of the stuff won't do anything to you. The key is to get the "Create your own Pasta" card: from this you can select your pasta type, sauce and vegetables all for about $9. I added spicy sausages and shrimp (for extra) and it was so very good. Not much of a wait on Saturday night and free parking in the lot across from the restaurant.

Themos' take: This is a nice place that is a mix of 2 type of cuisines: Classic pasta stuff, plus grill type dishes (mostly chicken), and then combination of these two. The food quality is impressively good, the service is excellent, and I have no words for the bread they bring for appetizer (I had 2 whole loafs myself). The audience comprises mostly of families and adults - not your traditional student hangout.

Thursday, September 15, 2005

Gaucho Grill * * * * $$

Who? Themos, Hlias, Dimitri, CostasZ
Where? Brentwood
How much? $18
Zagat: * * *, $23

Costas said that was the best chicken he's tried since he came to LA... The rest of us left very impressed too. This is an Argentinian restaurant who I personally hand-picked, and indeed I wasn't wrong that they have great meat dishes... The huge steak with the melted cheese on it was plain pleasure. The environment is slightly romantic yet too noisy, consisting of an interesting mix of people in late 20s till early 40s. Niam niam...

Mikoshi + + $

Who? CASA
Where? The closest one to USC is at Fig and 30.

The food is decent - it's similar to Panda quality, but with much better presentation. A very cookie-cutter chain of Asian food without any authenticity. The curry chicken rice was decent and of sufficient portion, but nothing like Hurry Curry. Good destination for a large group, say if you're having an after-meeting event.

Saturday, September 10, 2005

La Dijonaise * * * * $$

Who? Themos, Patrick, Erdem, Bing, Xiaodong, Chris, Tom, Reeza
Where? Culver City
How much? $21
Zagat: * * * *, $21

This is another 3.5 star place... Authentic french cuizine at low prices, this is a little gem at the heart of Culver City. Steaks, pastas, salads, plus the best bread I've had in LA so far - truly great stuff. The service is more than you could expect, the people are nice and warm, and the food is more homestyle than your mom's birthday dinner.

Wednesday, September 07, 2005

Gypsy cafe * * * $$

Who? Themos, Nikos
Where? Westwood
How much? $16

The food includes tasty middle-eastern cooked dishes, the people include ucla chicks, and many tables are outside in the street (which is a great plus for me). You can smoke 25 different flavors of hookas and also stay up late in the night (=classic greek spot). Realatively loud middle eastern music accompanies the experience. I can't have more than 2 stars since this is not the type of restaurants I prefer though.

Tuesday, September 06, 2005

Manna * * * * * / + + + + + $$

Who? Tim, Evan, Marco, Andrew aka. the Manna Boys
Who? Themos, Stayros, CostasZ, Dimitri
Where? Arlington and Olympic
How much? $18
Zagat: 21, $22

Themos's take: This is a real deal. The lines are long (1h+ on weekends) but it is worth the wait. For $15 you can get as much meat as you wish, until the stoamach is full ot until they close. What these places are missing is the way to make meats tastier: dip in olive oil, oregano and salt before, lemon juice on top after. The meats are great quality, including pork, beef and chicken. I also don't see the point of the various sides they bring :-)

Andrew's take: This place is just awesome. Unlimited, good quality meats accompanied with a crazy salad bowl and 20 little plates of niblets.

Wednesday, August 31, 2005

La Taquiza + + $

Who? Jenn, Siao, Chris+Michellios, Andrew, A.Lok, Howie

Sunday, August 28, 2005

Bryan's Pit Barbeque (Farmer's Market) + + + $

Who? Jarika, Howie, Andrew
Where? Farmer's Market @ The Grove

Saturday, August 27, 2005

Buca di Beppo * * * * * / + + + + + $$

Who? Fabien, Siao, Andrew, A. Lok, MichelleP, Shusan, Howz, Erika, Michellios
Where? Citywalk
Who? Themos, Stayros, CostasZ
Where? Santa Monica
How much? $20
Zagat: 15, $22

This place is awesome. Everything we got was far beyond your average italian restaurant, the decorations are awesome, and also this place allows for a lot of people. I think it is better than C&O Trattoria, because it is not semi-authentic: they are a chain that kept their quality of recipes high and they admit it. The small portion of pasta challenged my capabilities, but at the end was happy:-)

Monday, August 22, 2005

Cafe Spot + + + + $

Located at Valley and 5th in Alhambra, this is now my favourite place for good cheap eats in New Chinatown. I knew it would be good when I saw the "gai dann jay" (little egg shaped pancakes) on the menu - it was just like being on the streets of Hong Kong. I had the beef brisket curry which was extremely filling and very tasty. The fried tofu appetizer was likewise excellent. Howz noodle dish was, quote, "pretty decent". The restaurant is very clean, with modern, simple decor

Who? TimShen, Siao, Howie, Jenn Jenn, Erika, Chris, Michellios, Sarah, Andrew

Pho Kym + + + $

Who? Jenn Jenn, Michellios, Howie, Andrew

Saturday, August 20, 2005

Louise's Trattoria * * * * $$

Who? Demetri, Themos
Where? Studio City
How much? $17
Zagat: * * *, $23
Again, I would grade this place with 3.5 stars rather than 3. I think that was the first restaurant that I've been here that is not at ground level! The food is excellent, the service is flawless (they kept refilling our drinks automatically), and the enviroment is quiet and very relaxing, with a view at the Studio City plaza. In studio city the people were not students or youngsters: there were families, colleagues, couples. Plus a realistically cute waitress.

Friday, August 19, 2005

29th Street Cafe + + + $

Who? Ying-Hao, Andrew, Hidehisa

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

La Barca * * *

This is more likely a 3.5 star place, but we haven't invented decimal grades yet. And imagine that I don't really like Mexican food. The value for money ratio is excellent in this hidden small gem right on Vermont near usc. Happy hours give away drinks for $1.95, while the setting resembles nothing like what's going on outside.

Who? Themo, Sotiris, Savvy, CostasX, ...
Where? Vermont and usc

Tuesday, August 16, 2005

Hooters * */ + + + $

Who? Themos, Costas Z, Demetri... Andrew, Annie, Chris, Yao, Darren... Chief Steve
Where? Santa Monica
How much? $18

Themo's Take: Yeah, ok... Not impressed at all. The only reason the prices are down is that the food is fast food, so technically I wouldn't call it a restaurant. The environment was nice, the people mostly mexicans, and the waitresses just fine since Coyote Ugly in Las Vegas has set extremely high standards for my taste in "hot service".

Andrew's Take: It's a family restaurant! Good wings and beer is enough for me... They always carry the big fights so we don't have to PPV. That's all I go to Hooters for!

Pho 2000 + + + $

Who? Shusan, Jared, Howz, Andrew

Monday, August 15, 2005

Diddy Riese Cookies * * */+ + + $

Themo's Take: 3 cookies for $1. And they are heavenly good. Need I say anything else?

Andrew's Take: Nice waffle ice cream cones and awesome cookies for very cheap. But there are always, always lines... and never, never parking...

Who? Andrew, Shusan, Howie, Themo

Sunday, August 14, 2005

Cuban Food + + $ $

Who? Andrew, A. Lok, Siao, Brian, Howie, Shusan

Thursday, August 11, 2005

McCormick and Schmick's * * / + + + + $

Who? Don, Aly, Rajiv, Steve, Andrew, many, many times
Where? Downtown, US Bank Plaza 3rd St.
Zagat: * * *, $32

Themo's take: As downtown gets more and more popular, places like this will get more and more people there. The cheap cheeseburger is one of the best steals around.

Andrew's take: I only go there for Happy Hour (after 9 on Mon-Thu, all evening on Fri, I think). But like Themos' says: the $2 burger is the best steal around - juicy thick 1/2 pounder (or more) with fries. Also for $2: chicken drummettes (get the sauce on the side if you can't handle hotness - it's an option), quesidilla, zucchini sticks, and portabello mushroom. 1 drink mandatory ($3-5). The restaurant has a busy atmosphere but is relaxed enough for private conversation. Fantastic place to relax and unwind after a long day or a Kung Fu workout. Has large TV's for sports. Parking fully validated.

Saturday, August 06, 2005

Mako + + + $

Who? Krystal, Andrew, Siao, A. Lok
Where? Silverlake close to Dresden (may be closed now [Jul 2007])

Hole in the wall with cheap Japanese food. Coolest thing is that it's BYOB!

Trattoria Farfalla + + + $$

Who? Wan, Andrew, Steve, Adam

Hortobagy * * * * */ + + + + $$

Themo's take: Hungarian restaurant with hungarian customers and hungarian dishes. I discovered that countries without access to water resources include a lot of meats at their cuisines, which made my decision of entree even harder. The dishes are traditional and the materials are first class, tasty and honest. Named after a beautiful national park of Hungary, it's an excellent choice for under $15 entrees.

Andrew's take: Yes, I enjoyed the homely nature of this restaurant.

Who? Rajay, Andrew, MichelleB, Themo
Where? Studio City

Friday, August 05, 2005

Olympians * * */ + + + $

Themo's Take: There are only a few places in the town that offer great grilled chicken, steaks, pork chops and similar stuff in huge quantities for around $10. That is because you usually pay for the environment, the service and the tips on top of the food. Figueroa and Adams, downtown.

Andrew's Take: Greasy food, so good. Get full fast. And it's at Vermont and Adams, not Fig.

Saturday, July 30, 2005

Sam Woo BBQ * * * / + + + $

Themo's Take: Asian place in an asian neighborhood. You will pay no more than $10-$15 and get a lot of excellent meats (duck, pork, BBQ pork, chicken) which you first observe hanging in the displays, plus all the classic asian dishes. There is a similar place in Vegas too. The lines are long because they are good and they know it.

Andrew's Take: The "asian" place is San Gabriel Plaza and the cuisine is Canto BBQ. I didn't like the "mixer" plate of meat we ordered. Too much "ghap" i.e. livers, kidneys, feet etc. I prefer the half duck, or ginger-oil dip with white chicken, or roasted pork (not red BBQ kind). There aren't so many of these places around - as Howz remarked - not like Toronto Chinatown. The Tomato-Beef rice is quite good. Mountainous rice! I like to get the vegetables not on the English menu; just like my momma taught me. Peeps in the know get "duww miu" and have it "ching chow"'ed. Good food, memories of back in the day. Thumbs up.

Who? Joyce, Andrew, Themo

Ye Olde King's Head * * * * * / + + + + $$

Who? Andrew and Themo
Where? Santa Monica
How much? $25
Zagat: * * *, $22

Themo's Take: This place what better than I expected. It has true British cuisine, very weird stuff but good nevertheless. The environment is very european also, and lots of british go there too as it is a trusted place. On top of that it is located next to the Santa Monica promenade, and the price you pay (~$25) is worth for what you get.

Andrew's Take: I agree. The walls are littered with beer placards and other English paraphernalia. The "weird" stuff to which Themo is referring: Scotch Eggs (eggs covered in what can only be described as meatloaf), kidneys - as in Steak and Kidney pie (a standard) and braised lamb shank (tonnes of stewed lamb meat falling off a rather large bone). All very, very tasty. And, chips=fried potatowedges! The best part? My favourite beers: a pint of Boddy's, Murphy's Ale, and Newcastle Brown. Great restaurant - almost feels like home, my birth-home that is. Awesome neighbourhood to spend a night in. Thumbs up.

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

Buffet @ Paris Las Vegas * * * * * * $$

Following the suggestions of both friends and the Lonely Planet guide, I visited the buffet at Paris. Words are too little to describe the feeling: I felt like a kid in Disneyland (or myself in Magic Mountain for that matter). I now understand fully why Marios said that he wanted to throw up so that he could eat more food. I also now understand fully why Christiana was cursing Marios "It's noot fair us girls that you guys can eat so much food". I just sat there and kept eating for more that 2 hours until we were the last ones at the hall, around 11pm. And all that for just $25.

Buffet hint: the best ones have very few pasta in their menu.

AY: Dude... this is not in L.A.!
EK: It's just for setting a scale.

Who? Themos, Panos
Where? Las Vegas

Monday, July 18, 2005

Border Grill * * * / +

Who? Andrew and Themo
Where? Santa Monica
How much? $32
Zagat: * * * *, $30

Themo's Take: This is a Mexican restaurant with meals around $20-$30. Go there for the enviroment and the people. The raw materials they use are fresh and good, altough the food quantity you get is does not agree with the price. If I even remotely liked Mexican food anyways I would give this guy 3 stars, but I'll stick to 2 for the time being.

Andrew's Take: Overpriced and not of good quality. I've had better Carne Asada at taco stands. And the Margharita was blah. Pretty decor though - looks like a kid painted it. Go to Olvera street in downtown for Mexican food - where the waiters will sing to you.

Sunday, July 17, 2005

Ye Rustic Inn + +

It looks ever so scary from the outside. If you ever happen to pull into this plaza, you probably wouldn't go into this place! The inside is dark and... well dark. Unfortunately, they also have a jukebox that plays too loudly. The food is decent pub grub and it comes in very huge portions for very cheap. Domestic pitchers are cheap too. Basically it's like Clark Hall (Queen's University). But the college crowd definitely does not hang out here!

Who? Adam, Wan, Steve, Andrew, Ben and Anna

Saturday, July 16, 2005

Pampas Grill (Farmer's Market) * * * * / + + + + $$

Who? Themos, Stayros, CostasZ ; Howie, Andrew
Where? Farmer's Market @ The Grove
How much? $21

Andrew's take:Located in the Farmer's Market at the Grove, Pampas is an absolutely excellent Brazillian BBQ. Pick up a wide array of foods from tuna stew to plantains (oh so good) to fresh tomatoes and beets to yucca. The meats are definitely the highlight of this churrasco. I had the combination of sausage, spicy chicken and sirlion caps and was not disappointed. Cost is determined by the weight of the plate and a generous serving will run around $18. A great place to people watch and to hang out after dinner. But be warned, this place is so popular that the lines get unruly!

Themos' Take: Well, I am impressed. The lined are usually long and there is not format restaurant enviroment, but the meat quality in this Brazilian place just blew me away. Great stuff for a modest price, this place is a must if you want to try something at the Farmer's Market.

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

The Old Spaghetti Factory * * * / + + + $

Who? Andrew, Rajay and Themo
Zagat: * *, $17

Themo's Take: This one of the best choices for a $10 sit down restaurant. The food is decent for the price, and the enviroment looks interesting as a fake-retro attempt. Don't forget to try the greek cheese Mizithra Spaghetti, a dish you won't forget for a long time.

Andrew's Take: It gets an extra star from me because I like the decor... and it made Rajay puke. Nice place to take a date.

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

MIcelie's * * * * * $$

Who? Themos, Roubos
Where? Hollywood
Zagat: * * *, $23

Located in Hollywood, this is the oldest Italian restaurant in Los Angeles - and it's really good. Everything is so anti-American: terrible service, narrow tables, great food. They have booths carved in the wood and bottles of wine hanging from the ceiling, plus live piano music. Most of the stuff cost $10-$15. Various celebrities have eaten there, ranging from JFK to the Beatles. I may have given it a 5th star if the service was better.

Friday, July 08, 2005

Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles + + + $

Who? Andrew, Shusan, Howie
Zagat: * * * *, $15

The closest Roscoe's to USC is located at Pico and La Brea and it's ghettofabulous. I don't know if that's a word but maybe you can pardon my stereotyping for just a minute . The service was full of "sweetheart" and "y'all". What else can you say about fried chicken smothered with gravy and served with greasy waffles. You want to stop but you can't. It's good, cheap and will probably kill you.

Sunday, July 03, 2005

Union Cattle + + + + $$

Located in Hermosa Beach, close to the pier, Union Cattle is one of those restaurants just brimming with energy. This is an awesome place to grab a couple of drinks and a good old steak. The burger I had was excellent, and to quote Steve on his meal: "That was one of the best steaks I've had in a while" (and he's a country boy). The atmosphere is very loud owing to the mechanical bull and the music - but it's mighty fun!. If you're "lucky" you'll see the most incredible bull riders. There is a nice bar on the second level and a great rooftop. As usual with popular places like this, there is a mighty wait for a table.

Who? Andrew, Steve, Steve and Corey

Saturday, July 02, 2005

Pho L.A. + +

Average, average, average... go there if you really need a Pho fix... and get a big bowl of it. I don't understand the valet parking. Some of the menu items look the same, but actually they're different. One may have all the items i.e. beef, tripe, etc... whilst the other has a "choose from" clause. Thanks for pointing that out guys!

Who? Shusan, Howie, Andrew

Sunday, June 26, 2005

The Kettle + + + +

This beautiful restaurant is located at Manhattan Beach Blvd and Highland, close to the Manhattan Beach pier. The food is absolutely excellent and is very reasonably priced. The spinach dip was delicious and the entree ribs were fantastic. The menu caters a wide selection of items: from steaks, chicken and fish to sandwiches and burgers to desserts and even breakfast. The restuarant is located in a beautiful neighbourhood where it is easy to take a stroll (to, you guessed it, the pier... what else? We live in L.A.!). Open 24/7, it's a great late night destination. In fact, Steve was so convinced, he took his out-of-town friends there the following week.

Who? Steve and Andrew

Monday, June 20, 2005

Nak Kwon + + +

Cousin to Hodori, this is another 24hr Koren picture set menu restaurant. I like the vegetables here better than at BCD. I was "forced" to eat tofu soup... but it's my favourite anyway. And it was good. Popular after-clubbing destination.

Who? Howie, Andrew, Su-chizzle, Gary, Steve

Saturday, June 18, 2005

Hamburger Hamlet * / + + +

Who? Themo, Andrew, AJ+Michelle, Rajay
Zagat: * *, $19

Themo's Take: This place is not really worth their money, especially when you compare it with Barney's. There are better burger places out there.

Andrew's Take: I think Themo's being a bit harsh here. The burgers are very good and the prices are decent. And the HH is more than just burgers. The dining room atmosphere is very comfortable and attenuates sound well. I think that means you get to concentrate on the conversations at your table. Great place for burger and beer.

Sunday, June 12, 2005

Big Wasabi + +

Here's another miniature Japanese restaurant located at Willshire and La Jolla. It's so small that when we were finally seated, we had to scoot out of the way to make way for our server. The food is decent but doesn't come in large enough quantities for the price. I could have gotten the "all you can eat sushi" for roughly the same price as my meal. Rumour has it there is a half-off sushi coupon... alas I never happened upon such a thing.

Wh0? Jarika, Michellios, Howie, Andrew

Saturday, June 04, 2005

Versailles + + + + / **** $$

Who? Siao, Howie, Jarika, Shusan, KStaub, AWong, Andrew, Rajay
Who? Themos, Dora, Frankie, Melanie
Where? Culver City
How much? $25
Zagat: 22, $17

Andrew's Take: This wonderful Cuban restaurant located at La Cienega and Pico serves excellent comfort foods at very cheap prices. Although you might at first be deterred by the long lines and the lack of parking, don't be! The restuarant only seats 75 (or so I think that's what the sign said) in a room no bigger than a THH classroom. The atmosphere is busy and the food arrives quickly from a kitchen that is clearly visible from the dining area. The dishes are very comforting - oxtail, steaks, garlic chicken in lemon/lime sauce - served with plantains and rice with beans, or rice infused with beans (Moro). Everything is flavourful but not audacious. Once done, you sit back in your chair, very pleased. The food selection is quite large. Go early to before certain "popular" dishes e.g. oxtail, run out. Everything I've tasted here has been delicious - although I don't care too much for the Sangria (bit dry). Portions are large. Try to avoid going at super-peak times e.g. Friday/Saturday around 6-7pm.

Themos' Take: Very nice Cuban Place where you can have a lot of food (including meats!) without spending a fortune. The food is really for 3 out of 5 stars but since it is cheap it wins an extra star. Everything we got was good: lots of rice, and carefully cooked chicken and pork. You can get full with only a single portion, no desserts or anything. The sangria was very light but I tried a mango-pineapple smoothie instead which was a very pleasant surprise.

Sunday, May 29, 2005

Oomasa + +

Located in the Tokyo Village Plaza, this booth/counter restaurant is almost completely shielded from outside eyes. The dinner special is served in Bento boxes and is pretty decent, and although nothing spectacular is pretty filling. The tea-flavoured ice cream was the best part. Prices are moderate. A nice place to talk privately, to discuss life and/or research over some food.

Who? Andrew, Joyce, Thomas

East India Grill * * * / + + + + +

Who? Howie, Andrew, Ravi
Who? Themos, Dimitri
Where? (next to) The Grove
How much? $21
Zagat: 21, $19

Andrew's take: Located at La Brea and Beverly, this is an absolute hidden gem of a restaurant! The food is cheap and just plain excellent. I had the Sagwala Lamb Curry dinner and I was totally stuffed, my tastebuds in an oh-so-happy mood. I love spinach, and this curry did not disappoint with its thick, rich flavour. As an appetizer, the Seekh Kabab was very fragrant and tasty, and the Samosas were likewise wonderful with the table dipping sauces. I had never experienced Cheesy Nan before, but after trying it once, I'm a fan! (Although Ravi says it's not so traditional) Try a Mango Lassi, for they're perfect yoghurty, sweet concoctions. Parking on the streets is easy to find. My only complaint was the rather terse waiter. But thumbs way up and it even gets a coveted 5+ rating. Now if only they delivered to SC!

Themos's take: It sounds like a joke to combine Indian cuisine with Californian cuisine. However this little place brings the two worlds together very efficiently, although I am not a great fan of indian food (especially with all these things that Rajay makes!). The food is good and fresh, the service is just ok, so the people best advantaged from this place are the nearby take-outers. Thumbs up.

Saturday, May 28, 2005

C&O Trattoria * * * * * / + + + + +

Andrew's take:Located at Venice pier, this beautiful patio-garden restaurant boasts a super-busy, fun and loud atmosphere. Right from the get-go, they gouge you with little bread buns of garlic butter covered goodness. When the main meal comes, you wonder if there is any pasta left in Italy because the portions are large enough to feed entire armies! I know I say this all the time but I really mean it this time - all five of us took home boxes! And that was the "normal" size dish. Apparently there's also "gargantuan" (I'm afraid to ask). I had the Calamari and the Chicken Pepperonata which was quite good, although a bit too stewed for my liking (I still have a whole chicken breast left). However, the prices are excellent for the amount and quality of food you get ($8-11/entree). In between bites of your meal, you can indulge in the singing of "That's Amore", an event that stops the entire waitstaff for a few minutes as they parade around the room, clinking everyone's glasses, to the waltzy tune. Unfortunately, I didn't have an opportunity to try the self-serve Shianti deposited in the large barrels around the restaurant. But I have to say, any place that has crayons where you can draw on the table is tops in my books. Park on the beach ($3), and take a stroll on the pier/beach after. You'll need it. Thumbs up.

Themo's take: Good pasta, good value for money, good location, good atmosphere, good prices: This place has a little bit of everything. I had 3 garlic breads outside while waiting, 6 more after we sat down and while waiting for the main meal, 4 while eating, and 7 more for dessert. After eating these 20 garlic breads I could only eat half of the gargantuan pasta full of meat sauce. The normal sized dishes are pretty big but I wouldn't call them huge, anyone who didn't have 2 meals before on the same day and is not skinny asian can handle them.

Who? Andrew, Chris+MichelleY, Su-chizzle, Howie

Monday, May 23, 2005

Joy Mart + + +

Delicious sashimi and sushi are served in this very nice-looking restaurant located at the heart of the Japanese Village. Ingredients are fresh and well presented. The noodle dishes may look small in the menu but they are huge! The ramen is virtually unfinishable. I had the Pad Thai here and it is very good, as was the Hot Asian Sushi Roll. Prices are moderate and can add up quickly.

Who? Andrew, Howie, Jenn Jenn and later... Steve

Saturday, May 21, 2005

Porto's + + +

Don't let the industrial, take-a-number, form-a-line, decide-your-order-now atmosphere overwhelm you. The croissant sandwiches are excellent, and virtually every type of pastry and dessert for the sweet tooth can be found here. The fruit smoothies are cool and refreshing on a hot L.A. day. Shop in closeby Glendale Galleria. Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew, Howie, MichelleP, A. Lok, Siao

Thursday, May 19, 2005

Shaherzad * * * *

Zagat: * * * *, $22

We didn't have any Persian restaurants on this list yet: Shahrzad is a nice one on 1442 Westwood Blvd with reasonable prices, just make sure you make a reservation first. I don't remember a thing from what I ate there, but everything was classy and good.

Monday, May 16, 2005

The nameless Korean BBQ * * * * / + + +

Themo's Take: This place has no english name nor a website. However it's classic Korean BBQ stuff (cook-it-yourself-play-with-the-fire-stuff) with really nice meats, although somewhat pricey. from the 10 freeway exit at Crenshaw North, right on Olympic, then the place is on the second block on the right side - the one with no english characters :-). It doesn't get 4 stars because of the relatively expensive meats - which are good, though.

Andrew's Take: It's a cute little place and it can get very cosy with 10 people! Good quality ingredients. I particularly liked the steamed egg and those white "dumpling" wrappers. But what they do need is some better ventilation! I was crying at night's end due to the smoke in my eyes :(. The funny quirky girl waitress was awesome. Maybe next time they won't spill hot oil all over my pants when they change the grill plate! Congrats on learning chopsticks Themo. Always fun to play with fire! Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew, Themo, Darren, Chris, Yao, 5 of Yao's friends + 1 quirky waitress

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

BCD Tofu House * * * / + + + +

Themo's Take: This place is pretty good, but it's hard for me to give more than 3 stars in an asian restaurant. They never impress me for some reason.

Andrew's Take: Excellent Korean food for a chain restaurant at decent prices. The Tofu dinner combos are superb - perhaps because I'm partial to thick and spicy tofu soups and mounds and mounds of Bulgogi. However, I was not a big fan of the small-dish vegetables they put out. The Kimchi was average as was a lot of the other vegs. The one on Wilshire is open 24 hours a day. Parking is readily available in a huge lot. Don't push the little button on the table repeatedly, it actually does something! Thumbs up.

Who? Themo, Dora, Rajay, Steve, Andrew

Saturday, May 07, 2005

Leela Thai * * / + + +

Located at Silverlake and Effie, this family-owned restaurant is truly in the middle of nowhere. The atmosphere is extremely cosy (think no bigger than your living room) and the dishes are prepared in that same "homemade" spirit. Large selection of decent Thai food at a very cheap price. Cash only! Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew, Themo, Dora, Rajay

Sunday, May 01, 2005

The Loft + + +

Located in Torrance (Hawthorne & Lomita), this PacIsland decorated restaurant is a buffet serving Hawaiian BBQ . Although at first glance the food selection does not appear to be very large, it is actually quite satisfying. The grilled meats are delicious, and fresh pancakes, topped with fruit, are made before your very eyes . I liked the finger foods a lot. A little birdie from Hawaii told me that the foods are quite authentic. Most of all, I also enjoyed the fact that they were showing playoff basketball on big TV's. Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew, CASA board 2004-5, CASA board 2005-6

Saturday, April 30, 2005

Suehiro + + +

Located in J-town, Suehiro is a nice cosy place where you can satisfy late-night Sushi cravings. The flan dessert is delicious. Bring a few friends for a relaxed eating experience. Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew, Howie, Jared+Erika

Monday, April 11, 2005

Olive Garden + + +

An excellent place to have a nice sit-down meal. Be it a dinner date, a business dinner, or in my case a recruiting dinner - all fit well in this more "upscale" Italian restaurant chain. The flavours are fresh, light and simple. And the presentation style makes it feel like home. There is one tucked away in beautiful Westwood. Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew, Steve, new PhD student+girlfriend

Sunday, April 10, 2005

The Woodranch BBQ & Grill * * * */ + + + +

Who? Themo, Dora, Andrew
Where? The Grove
How much? $35
Zagat: * * * *, $24

Themos' Take: Niam niam... Tasty meats and great ribs ans steaks at the $20-$30 range. The only one in LA is located at the Grove, and it's worth it. Thumbs way up.

Andrew's Take: Best take-out BBQ menu. Bring it home!

Friday, April 01, 2005

Moishe's (Farmer's Market) * */ + + +

Who? Andrew, Themo
Where? The Grove
Zagat: * * * *, $11

Excellent shish kebab, hummus and other middle-Eastern dishes can be found here. Although it's "fast" food, it's still very tasty - and quite kind to the wallet. The busy patio atmosphere of the Farmer's market gives me that "dai pai dong" dining experience that I miss from the East. You can also pick up some fine NY Strips and Rib Eye from Huntington Meats for BBQ delight Thumbs up.

Saturday, March 26, 2005

Pomodoro Italian Cuisine * */ +

Who? Andrew, Themo, Ravi, Rajay
Zagat: * * *, $19

Themos' Take: Decent quality for price Italian chain restaurants - I tried the $6.95 spaghetti and it was pretty good. Niam niam.

Andrew's Take: The quality is very average and the portions are a little on the lean side. The nice setting is not enough for me to recommend this place. Thumbs down.

Sunday, March 20, 2005

Hodori * * * / + + + +

Andrew's take: Located at Vermont and Olympic, this place caters a Korean set-meal "picture" menu. Lots of nice dishes at very affordable prices. The restaurant is open 24hrs a day... so you can get your Tofu Soup fix after a few Gin and Tonics... Nak Kwon, Hodori's neighbour is also open late and serves pretty much identical food. Thumbs up.

Themos's take: I love 24h restaurants, escpecially if they are open 365 days a year. It's good to know there is someone you can always rely on. The pricing is very good for the amount of food you get.

Who? Alex, Andrew, Steve

Saturday, March 19, 2005

Village Pizzeria * * * * / + + + $

Who? Alex, Andrew, Steve
Where? Somewhere between Ghetto and Hollywood
How much? $13
Zagat: 24, $13

Andrew's Take: This is a cute, little pizza and pasta place on N. Larchmont. The pizza is fantastic and all the food comes with that "authentic" NYC flavour. The ravioli was quite awesome. The only downside is that the menu is a touch on the pricy side. Thumbs up.

Themo's Take: This is definately one of the top 2-3 pizza places in LA I've tried so far. With the exception of Cheebo which makes fully organic pizzas (but not NY style), this is one of a kind find. The ingredients are fresh and tasty, the bread is awesome, and the pizzas are huge hence even the small one can satisfy two people. This results in ultra-cheap bills and full stomaches!

Monday, March 14, 2005

Fred 62 * */+ +

Who? Andrew, Themo, Rajay, Laura, Michelle, Steve, Shane
Zagat: * * *, $17

Located at Vermont and Franklin, this is a great 24hr place. "Mac and Cheese Balls" and other fine diner foods are amply available here. Great malt shakes but stay away from the Pho. Park on the streets behind the restaurant.

Sunday, March 13, 2005

Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market and Patio Cafe + + +

Don't let this shack on the side of the road deceive you! Great seafood dishes, excellent battered fish served with coleslaw, fries... Enjoy the Malibu sun on the patio while breathing the fresh Pacific breeze. Then go for a stroll on the beach...

Who? Adam, Shane, Wan, Steve, Andrew

Yard House + + + +

Who? Andrew, Themo, Xiong, Ravi, Steve
Zagat: * * *, $27

Here resides the largest selection of draft beer ever. The restaurant has a busy atmosphere and a loud sport's bar feel. The food is absolutely excellent... a great place to go with friends to throw one back.

The Original Pantry * */+ + + +

Who? Themo, Andrew and Steve used to a lot, Michelle, Ravi
Zagat: * *, $15

Themos' Take: Located near Staples Center in downtown LA, it's 24/7 crowded and noisy - this is what makes it so good. Great breakfast option.

Andrew's Take: Get to know the chefs over bottomless coffee, and prepare yourself for a coronary. The breakfast bacon, eggs and hotcakes are a lethal combo. Don't forget the sourdough bread - one of my personal favourites. Skip the line by jumping on the counter... all the hip kids are doing it. Thumbs up.

Marie Callender's * * */ + + +

Themo's Take: Initially well known for their pies and bakery stuff, however they have nice dishes to offer overall.

Andrew's Take: Mmm... pie.

Hurry Curry of Tokyo * * * */ + + +

Themos' Take: Excellent quantity for price restaurant - beef, chicken and pork along with mild curry and awesome rice. Did I mention the good looking customers that go there?

Andrew's Take: Excellent curries drench your tastebuds in a flavour explosion. Deceptively small pots of delicious goodness mixed with cutlets or fruits de mer. My only complaint is the severely undercooked rice they served us that one time. Thumbs up.

Who? Lots... Andrew, Themo, Ravi, Shane, Rajay, Darren, Yao, Chris... ... ...

Mama Voulas * * */ + + + +

Who? Andrew, Themo and Ravi
Zagat: * * *, $20

Themos' Take: Nice greek restaurant in Westwood - decent meats and relaxing enviroment. You can also say hi to mama voula herself.

Andrew's Take: I may not be a connaiseur of Greek food (like Themo) but this is about as good as I've had. It's got a cozy, warm feel. Great dishes. Thumbs up.

Houston's * * */ + + + $ $ $

Zagat: * * * *, $31

Themo's Take: American style restaurant - I like them , what can I do? Haven't seen it outside the US (unlike T.G.I. Friday's). They have the largest seletion of draft beer.

Andrew's Take: It's great food but it breaks the wallet! You're looking at $40+ with tax and tip. Order the rack o' ribs (not actually on the menu) and you won't be disappointed. I have a soft spot for Julienne fries. The spinach dip is excellent. Thumbs Up.

Cheesecake Factory * * * * / + + + +

Who? Themo, Andrew, Charlie, Felecia
Zagat: * * *, $24

Themos' Take: Well known chain of quality restaurants - not too expensive for what they offer.

Andrew's Take: Always a safe bet for a good meal... But be prepared to wait a long time for a table if it's a weekend evening. It also takes me at least two sittings to eat a piece of their cheescake - but it's good to the last drop. Thumbs up.

Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers * * * */ + + + + $

Who? Andrew, Themo and Ravi
Where? Brentwood
Zagat: * * * *, $13

Themos' Take: One of the best burger places around here - fresh meats, fresh ingredients, fresh bread. Really tasty. Wann eat a whole cow? Try the Big Barney Burger :-) Thumbs up for me.

Andrew's Take: Yes, absolutely... and the best part about this place is that the prices are very affordable. It's cozy, tasty and you have a million burgers to choose from! Also vegetarian friendly. The restaurant's on a busy road, so it may take a while to find parking. But thumbs way up for me too.

Parkside (the USC "restaurant") * * * * */ + + + + + $

Andrew's Take: Endless food that's not always that good. But it's an easy and convenient way to cover all the food groups for $5.50 a trip. I agree, 5 +'s for the hand that feeds us.

Themos' Take: This is not the idea of the blog... I'm taking this entry off. 5 Stars for the almost infinite food/money ratio.

Who? Andrew and Themo, and of course Steve, a lot

Buffet Land Seafood and BBQ + + +

Located at Olympic and Westlake, this is one of the greatest Japanese/Korean buffets around. Do-it-yourselfers who enjoy BBQ'ing their way through the night will love the copious amounts of fresh meats and sea creatures. A tremendous selection of appetizers, sushi, vegetables, fruits and desserts. The low rating is due to the expensive price of dinner (~$25) - try lunch instead. Thumbs up.

Who? Andrew + Steier Research Group