Tasca
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: (323) 951-9890
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- Crescent Heights Boulevard
- Best of Citysearch:
- Small Plates 2007
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 5pm-10pm, Fri 5pm-12am, Sat 9am-4pm, 5pm-12am, Sun 9am-4pm, 5pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Tasca – by Alison Kramer
The Scene
Tiny tea candles glint alongside silver flatware, ornate mirrors, and cinnamon-hued banquettes, adding an elegant sparkle to the small, cavernous space. Enamored couples linger at two-seater tables, while relaxed regulars swirl wine at the sommelier-manned bar. Plates arrive a la carte, sometimes at a slower-than-preferred pace--a shortcoming that is allayed by the earnest, charismatic servers.
The Food
Partitioned simply into small and large plates, the one-page menu offers both classic and inventive Spanish fare. Beyond requisite cheese and charcuterie plates, notable apps include aromatic saffron mussels, decadent black sausage, and a savory--though somewhat chewy--fava bean, ham and sherry saute. House-made angliotti is heavenly, accented simply with sage, butter and harmonious black truffles. Short ribs are a house favorite, although the accompanying butternut ravioli in mascarpone sauce makes the dish more of a hearty meal than a light, sharable starter. Grilled pineapples and bananas make for a fresh, palate-cleansing finale.
Hits: A unique and unpretentious find in the realm of L.A. tapas, affordable, palate-pleasing fare is presented by affable servers, and the wine list is inspired.
Misses: Although some crowds may enjoy the hubbub of a bustling bistro, those seeking intimate dining may feel suffocated on a Friday or Saturday night.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Where to SitWhat the narrow dining space offers in ambiance in lacks in audibility. Grab a seat at one of the six sidewalk tables for cooler, quieter conversation.
What to DrinkGet a big taste of one of dozen-plus wines for a fraction of its bottle price. Pair different tastes with varying tapas for a genuine wine bar experience.
When to GoSome of the brunch dishes are particularly interesting. Stop by Saturday or Sunday to sample dishes like truffle egg toast, brie and mushroom frittata, and butternut squash risotto.
User Reviews for Tasca
04/15/2008 Posted by svetkin
I called to check on availability at 4pm on Saturday, and was told that may be I will be able to be seated at 10pm after a show I went to see with 2 other couples. Well, at 10 there were no space available inside, however, outside on the patio there was one corner free, where the owner set up 3 tables together and seated us within 5 minutes. Our waiter was great, attentive and gave us a lot of recommendations, so is the bus boy, food was excellent, we are all into tapas style now. Ceviche was excellent, so are the buratta cheese salad, tuna tartar (we ordered extra later), shrimp dish; service was outstanding. We did not order any drinks from the bar, but all had Sangria with raspberries and oranges. For dessert, the owner treated us to 4 different desserts; all were great, especially chocolate mousse. We had a wonderful time, and would return sometime very soon.
Pros: Food, service, atmosphere
03/27/2008 Posted by floraland
We had a reservation, but still had to wait about 20 minutes. However, the manager came over several times to check on us and was extremely cordial. The bartender was fantastic - wines were amazing, our group of 5 waited patiently. It makes a huge difference when someone is at least checking on you. After being seated, the waiter took his time and was extremely informative. Having recently moved here from NYC, this is the best service at a "trendy" spot so far. Yes, it is loud due to room design and the natural acoustics, but it was perfect for friends getting together for a well prepared meal and great wine. The braised short rib, steak frites and duck confit were cooked perfectly. The person who recomended the wine was fantastic as well, selecting and describing the perfect bottle for a group of 5. I am still getting to know the LA restaurant scene, but this was one of the best experiences so far....
Pros: Food, wine
Cons: parking ( use the valet )
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