12/11/08

My Favorite New Restaurant

by compson13

I recently had my second meal at Local and can honestly say that it is quickly becoming one of my favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. The quality of ingredients, the skill with which they are prepared and presented, everything, right down to the (to paraphrase another reviewer) slightly ditzy waitress, work together for a perfect night out. No, they don't have a liquor license, but there's a liquor store about fifteen yards down the street, you can go pick something out while your food is being prepared, and there is no corkage fee!!! I was pleasantly surprised by the prices, i had the pork belly appetizer- the meat was great and there was the perfect balance of sweet and kick thanks to the additional ingredients, and the 'abo-something or another' burger entree which was incredibly juicy and had a flavor that was unique without being distracting/disconcerting. Loved the waitress, she had an amazing personality...and for all (what i percieved as being) her ditziness, she was clearly professional and her confidence contributed to the appeal of the restaurant.

• Pros: prices, quality of ingredients/meal, romantic outdoor seating
• Cons: limited indoor seating

11/20/08

Great Fresh Food

by kimcan84

I went here for the first time recently and was impressed. Everything on the menu is made from local (as the name would suggest) fruits, vegetables, meats, etc., and they've got a lovely tea menu. No booze, but you can bring your own wine. Not sure if they have a corkage fee, though. I had the albondiga burger and a side of mac & cheese -- both of which were fantastic. My friend had a fish (I believe halibut) dish with grilled chard that was also pretty tasty. The majority of the restaurant is outside, but they'll be enclosing the patio soon to make it a little more comfortable. Also, because it's new, the staff (I believe the manager/owner was there that night) was very eager to help us. Our particular waitress was a little flighty, but the food was so good that it wouldn't deter me from returning. Prices were average for LA (about $12-15/plate), but worth it for the quality.

• Pros: Ambience (small but cozy), Food
• Cons: Street parking

Sustainable, organic, seasonal, local: The four cornerstones of this Silver Lake spot that offers fresh food amid few flourishes.

by Maggie Flynn

In Short
Given its concrete floors, grey brick walls and cooking equipment in plain view, you may feel as if you've walked into a small industrial kitchen instead of an organic eatery. Despite its no-frills flavor, your first glance at the menu will assure you that you're in for an impressive meal. Breakfast specialties include whole wheat cast iron pancakes, brioche French toast, and chilaquiles, made with eggs or tofu. For lunch and dinner, both vegetarians and carnivores will find gourmet takes on traditional deli favorites, from a veggie reuben with mushrooms and slow roasted pork sloppy joes to upscale offerings like garlic and lemon tossed spaghetti squash and braised lamb.