Axe
(310) 664-9787
1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice,
CA
90291
33.9923
-118.4722
Neighborhoods: Venice, West LA
What People Are Saying About Axe
The Editor
Martha Burr
Citysearch
Pronounced "ah-shay," this vibrant spot may be all natural in substance, but the style is all about industrial themes with its polished concrete floors, steel-accented open kitchen and stark, unadorned white walls. Lunch and weekend evenings are when the place really picks up, and crowds of hip, artsy Westside liberals pour in. The California cuisine is organic, fresh and artful. Start with appetizers like flatbread and spread (hummus, cucumber radish and herb salad) and soy braised beef shortribs. Main courses include half roasted free range chicken marinated in herb and New York steak with chimichurri sauce.
User Reviews
parenzano
February 15, 2009
I went to Axe this morning to have the nine grain pancake and a good cup of coffee. I walked into the establishment only to be greeted by little orphan Annie's evil twin sister. This particular server was in a very foul mood upon entering this restaurant. I asked her for a cup of coffee and asked if I could have it served with the creme instead of the milk, she said " I have worked here a long time and we only have milk or almond milk". That sort of set the tone to how she would end up treating me for the rest of my meal. I had a half order of the nine grain pancake and an order of the apple smoked bacon. The bacon was cold and given to me in three extremely small slices and tasted like it was left over from the day before. The pancake was superb but the way I was treated far out weighed the taste of the pancake. Not one server would look me in the eye and not once did anyone come over to my table to a. ask how everything was b. ask if I wanted more coffee or anything else for that matter. The couple sitting next to me said they felt the same as me about the horrible service and they both expressed sorrow that I was being treated such abhorrent disdain from the staff. I was looking around and definitely noticed that I was not the only one being ignored. I would have to say as a local who lives right around the corner from the place, I will never ever go back. I will also tell everyone I know what a disaster it is in terms of energy surrounding the staff.
read full review
bellymac
February 02, 2009
We recently went early on a Saturday night. I ordered the Trout which used to be my favorite....the fish was flavorless and was overpowered by the beets inside ( too sweet) , My husbands Duck was good and the veggies were yummy and then on to dessert...we ordered the special ( Butterscotch custard ) it came cold which surprised me being that it is the middle of winter and I found it to be far too sweet even with the sour cream on top..a huge disappointment considering I normally love their desserts.
read full review
JaayneDough
January 31, 2009
Wish I could have had this experience on camera. I was unhappy with my meal - hey, it happens...but from the point I brought up the issue with my steak to the time we demanded the check and left, I was shocked at the attitude of certain staff members. Is Joanna the blonde who doubles as hostess? I did not need her to explain to me what a Ribeye is... I worked at a steakhouse for 3 years - I know! Anyway, the Ribeye was a crummy piece of meat (was probably penalized for ordering well done) and there was so much fat and gristle that I could not eat it (I don't think anyone would have given their dog what I sent back). I know Ribeye's are fatty but I'd asked about theirs before ordering & it came highly recommended. What was so horrifying was how the situation was handled and this woman's attitude. The server tried to make amends - as he should have because something else went down involving him muttering "she's a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _" first word beginning with F and second with C (2of the worst words you can hear). He was called out on it and said he was talking about the manager woman.... whether it was me or her that he called those horrible things, it was super unprofessional and I think Axe should be very embarassed. Even if it was the best meal I've ever had - I do not dine out and pay money to be in an environment where that kind of language is within earshot! I don't know which is even worse : him saying it about me, a customer - or her, the owner and boss - in range of customer's hearing! Also was never offered water or drink refills - so when I almost choked on a piece of meat I panicked and seriously thought I might have to grab the Perrier bottle from the table next to me, lol. Anyway, the steak was taken off the bill (server rightfully pushed for that) and I did receive a complimentary salad to go, which I suppose was a decent gesture of his. This place left a seriously bad taste in my mouth though -and not just from the food. NEVER going back!
read full reviewThe Details on Axe
Where to Sit:
While the table by the door can be drafty, it's perfect to spot the occasional celebrity coming or going.
What to Drink:
Have a drink at Joe's next door while you're waiting for your reservation.
The Extras:
Trouble getting a table? Ask to sit at the counter, where you can also watch the chefs in action.
Look Good:
Save yourself the embarrassment of referring to the restaurant as "ax." It's pronounced "ah-shay."
Category:
Payment Methods:
Check, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard, Debit Card
Restaurant Special Features:
Brunch, Date Spot, Dine At The Bar
Cuisine:
Notable Chef:
Joanna Moore
