Kevin - I follow your posts via chowhound. You're one of my favorite reviewers. Thanks for putting up this blog - its easier to read than your myspace page.
"There is no love sincerer than the love of food."
Could you put a 'Follow This Blog' button on your site...go to 'Edit Post' and then 'Layout' and you can add things and personalize your site with further information on yourself... -Chef E
Thanks! The top restaurant in LA for me is easy: Urasawa. As for the rest, it's not so clear, but Providence, Spago, CUT, and Sushi Zo are up there. Bastide too, if it were still around.
I'm still figuring out what I want to do for a living. The current economic turmoil hasn't made things easier!
I think it's not so much an issue about "affording" to dine out as it is about priorities, and food for me is a high priority. So for example, next time, put down the Louboutins and go to Urasawa instead. ;)
Hi there, well I was in Chicago a couple of months ago (horrible timing..weather was bad bad bad!) but.. ALINEA made it all worth while.. I had the full tasting with the wine pairing.. did you get that too? It was heaven..and our servers were soo helpful. Looking at all your pictures made me hungry all over again... anyways, have you ever checked out a blog called the "hungry hedonist"? I don't think she has been updating it recently..but she had some amazing photos of places she tried... go check it out!
Glad to hear you had a good time at Alinea. Yes I had the wine pairing; it's really the way to go with wine, as given the multitude of flavors in the Tour, you'd be hard pressed to come up with a bottle that goes with everything.
I wasn't familiar with Hungry Hedonist. She has some nice reviews (including Alinea), but sorely needs to update--the last post was in July 2008!
So it looks like you recently went to Breadbar for Ludo Bites. I am interested on what your thoughts are but it seems as though the Vegas trip will need to be taken care of first.
The Vegas trip, and three other places will have to be dispensed with prior to Ludo Bites. Though the meal had its share of misses, overall I had a positive experience there, and I eagerly await Ludo's opening of his own restaurant.
Kevin -First of all, thanks for sharing your experiences...I came across your blog by chance, and man, I couldn't stop reading and surveying your list of places. Will certainly come back to your blog whenever we're back in SoCal. Also, surprised you haven't reviewed Campenile, which is one of our favs! Dude, I dig your pics and your descriptions, really gives us the feel of "being there"! Peace, Ron
Thanks Ron! I think you hit the nail on the head; what I aim to do here is to document a meal so it is really like "being there." You're right about Campanile though--I should make it out there some time!
Well damn, kevin. You're breaking my heart, but I guess blindly asking a total stranger to visit to shaboo was is worth the time.
No one takes pictures like you do. You and your camera are made for the wallet abusing price of shaboo.
Eh, not that it matters. This space just doesn't fit the modern vegas clientele. In a year or two, this space will become the fanciest buffet in the history of western civilization.
Don't get me wrong, I love me some Guy Savoy and Joel's Atelier, but Masa's latest restaurant concept is about five years behind the curve....
It's not so much the price, but the experience that turns me off Shaboo. If I were to get a true Masa-esque experience there, then I would definitely consider the place. Going to Savoy or Robuchon would seem like a much better use of funds.
I've yet to see a positive review of either Bar Masa or Shaboo, so it'll be interesting to see what happens to the restaurant.
Love your foodie map, I should try that. Been to all your Chicago hits. I live in LA and I have a woeful record of the hot LA restaurants...I eat out more when I travel.
i'm definitely a kevin eats fan. the meticulous process in which you document your food experience (food pics and narrative) deserves a "whoa dang" from me. it's like i'm hiding in your pocket while you're eating. drop a morsel in your pocket dangit! :( anyways, awesome blog. *high five*
So are you saying that a 18/20 is too high or too low for Alinea? Note that French Laundry, Per Se, Joel Robuchon, and Citronelle have all got scores of 19/20.
That's what I noticed! I was surprised Alinea didn't receive a 19/20 as well, since it's ranked as the "best restaurant" in the US on S. Pellegrino. Then again I haven't been to any of these restaurants, haha.
It's probably because Alinea's style is a bit more unconventional than the others'. It'll be interesting to see if the restaurant gets 3 stars in the upcoming Michelin rating.
Kevin, I finally tried Joel Robuchon this past Monday. It was probably my best French Dinner ever. I was in Absolute Bliss. I of course had the 13 course Degustation Tasting Menu. They also started wine pairings for this menu at 3 denominations $295, $595, and $995 pp. Not sure if offered for other tasting menu's though. I got to meet the man, in fact heard another blogger say Chef would be in town from the 14-18 of Nov. and scheduled my dinner accordingly. Got a copy of menu with wine pairings signed by chef himself. And no, he cannot speak a word of English although he did have an interpreter. My meal alone was $880 incl. of tax & tip, probably my most expensive but delightful meal ever.
Great to hear that you enjoyed yourself at Robuchon--I need to get back there sometime. I'm surprised that they're offering wine pairings now. What did the $995 one comprise of to justify the cost? My first meal there was also my most expensive ever, at $775 (there was a $1100 Urasawa dinner, but I didn't pay for it).
Spent 25+ years in Specialty Construction Materials Marketing and Sales all over North America and parts of Europe...favorite part of the job was being forced at gunpoint to severely entertain Specifying and Purchasing Customers....One neat trick is to politely ask the Convention Hotel Restaurant Staff, "So, like, where's the Second Best Restaurant in town ??" Get lots of great candid recommendations that way.... Chow on, Dude...and keep writing and snapping..!!
Just had a random thought. What if you set the date of this post to the way future. Then you won't have to republish again and again! Haha. Merry Christmas, Kevin! :)
Jennifer, each of my posts is dated to the date of the actual visit, not when I posted. Thus, I reset the date of this index post to the date of the latest blog update. ;)
Kevin - You might want to check your links. I tried clicking on "Binh Dan" from the California OC menu and it took forever. Finally, I just closed the page.
I love your website and your reviews and have commented several times (albeit "anonymously" b/c I'm too lazy to create a profile).
Just a comment on website design: would you ever consider ditching the interactive map. It's so busy that it's almost unusable. I also think that, considering your creativity and thoughtfulness, that you could put a beautiful photo or graphic that that captures the essence of your website.
Good to hear that you've been enjoying the blog. It's interesting that you mention the map, because I'm actually planning to move it to a separate page to speed up loading.
excellent blog, i'm going to spend quite some time going through your archives as it seems like we live in the same area and have visited mane of the same restaurants
Chef Makoto enjoyed & appreciated your post about Sashi. He's no longer at Sashi because he's opening "MAKOTO" at the Bal Harbour Shops in Miami in mid March. He said to please visit if you come to Florida! =)
He loved Sashi & worked hard to open it but he got an awesome oppurtunity with famous restaurateur Stephen Starr (he has many restaurants in Philadelphia and Morimoto restaurants). The restaurant is in Bal Harbour Shops which is supposedly a world known high end mall. He thought it would be a great opportunity to start his own brand & open a restaurant in his name. The restaurant will be a lot different from Sashi. It will be more traditional Japanese.
I'm originally from LA, went to UCSD, moved back for a few months, then moved to Bal Harbour (north of Miami) to help open MAKOTO. I'm his assistant. I miss LA!! I wish I could come back..I check your blog on a daily basis & there's so many places I missed out :(
You should go, decent pizza place without the Mozza 'tude. Anyhow, this group was a bit on the pretentious side @ LR and claimed to be into Burgundy. The downside to wine I suppose, point-chasers and label whores.
Kevin, I have been hearing great reviews about sushi noguchi in Yorba Linda. We usually look at your sushi reviews before we dine out and we would love to see what you think of the pla.ce
Thanks for the suggestion! It actually looks like a nice place. Unfortunately I rarely get out to Yorba Linda, but I'll definitely keep Noguchi in mind next time I'm there.
Kevin, Love following your foodie eats! My husband and I are celebrating our anniversary next month and want a great omakase experience (we loved Sasabune in Honolulu). What are your top 2 preferences (we live in San Diego but love to drive for good food)? Thanks Kevin!
I like your blog, I really do, but if you use the fucking word "vegetal" one more time I will stop reading. OK I'm being dramatic, but don't you get sick of typing the same words over and over to describe food? My other pet peeve words are "lactic," "tang,"and the phrase "lingered on the palate." Your descriptions are so heavy handed and repetitive half the time, and brilliant and illuminating the other half. Think about it this way; you don't always have to tell us point blank what it tastes like to provide a good description. I will say this, though, you know how to eat, man. Sounds dumb, but not everyone knows how to eat properly, especially the when it comes to eating food of such a high level of quality.
Can you really actually smell or tatse anything? Your nose is so far up all these asses. hinoki & the bird was dreadful. You clearly get off on trying to be the "first " to review places. Doesnt make u cool. Only rather pathetic. Get a life.
Can you take my dinedelish.com to LA Food and Wine? Are you going? They haven't got back to him yet on whether or not he can go as part of their media. If you plan on going,let him know. - your fan, Melanie
Regards from Finland, Europe. Even though we have over 5600 miles the distance between us, I am a big fan of your blog. Great blog, awesome pictures. I started with CUT [2] posting 2008 and since then been hooked. I have really enjoyed your postings. Still my favorites are the Urasawa's.
Great Work, Kevin. Your pictures and descriptions are terrific. Now we're off to Little Sister to try the ma la tartar! On that note, have you had Tony Xu's house-made Szechuan sausages at Chengdu Taste yet?
How on earth can you afford to eat at all these restaurants? Do they sponsor you or you part of the Berkshire Hathaway family? I'm confused....these are not all affordable venues for us common folks....
Hi Kevin - even though I live in NYC I love your blog. Pull it up everyday to see if you've posted. Love the pics and thorough reviews, great job. Just curious why you haven't been to/reviewed any sushi restaurants lately? Sushi is my favorite and always interested to see what the LA sushi chefs are up to these days...
Dear Keven Iff your in San Diego my wife also has a restaurant that specializes in traditional Mexican food beginning with Cochinita Peril a slow roasted pork, Barbacoa marinated lamb slow cooked in guajillo chili for 5-6 hours, Huitlecoche or corn truffle quesadilla served with Mexican cheese and homemade salsa, fresh cactus salad, real guacamole, homemade tortillas, fresh juices all from scratch. The fair is regional, indigenous pre Hispanic Mexican are looking forward to your oppinion. Below is a link to their reviews on Yelp, Facebook and a national commercial of the restaurant. thank you for your time. Sincerely Ronnie Attiq
EL BORREGO RESTURANT 4280 El Cajon Blvd San Diego, CA 92105 (619) 281-1355
Love your blog, been following for a few years. Forgive the question, but I'm curious: Have you ever reviewed (or eaten at) an African restaurant? Thanks again for sharing your passion for great eateries.
hey Kevin, i wish there was an equivalent to what you do here in berlin! thanks for saving us alot of money :D if i ever get the chance to visit LA i will make sure to bring a list from kevineats restaurants ;)
hello, kevin. was looking for no-BS reviews on Vespertine and found your blog. consider me a new fan. my friends and i appreciate your sharing and it'll greatly help us make future dining decisions. thank you and keep up the good work!
Hi Kevin, Like so many others that follow and appreciate your detailed descriptions of food, I’m also an avid follower of your culinary journey. As someone who is currently residing in Los Angeles, I found your blog to be a source of truth when looking to dine out. Every review you write is consistent with high-level craftmanship that cannot be found anywhere else. Hats off to you Kevin!
Kevin, I just found out that the Mattatouille guy now writes for Eater LA. I was confused when I went on to mattatouille.com and found something in French haha
Oh yeah Matt's been with Eater for years now. It is interesting to see that he's apparently lost control of his old domain name, which is sort of a shame.
Ah I do not anymore. The OG LA blogger community had largely broken apart by the end of the early 2010s. And sadly, food blogs in general are out of fashion these days.
I'm headed to L.A. in April. I've got Providence, Kato, and n/naka reservations so far. Aiming for some others (but Hayato is closed on easter Sunday and that was the night I had open for them). Any thoughts on dress codes on these places? Would "casual shoes" (not tennis shoes), nice jeans, and a polo shirt be OK? If not, I guess I'll pack some better clothes...
Nice lineup Dan! So I'd say that Providence and n/naka are a step up in the fanciness department from Kato.
I'd have no problem wearing your proposed outfit to Kato, but for the others, I personally would feel more comfortable in something like a long-sleeved dress-type shirt paired with nice jeans or slacks. That being said, I don't think either restaurant would ask you to leave or anything like that.
Also, I just found this statement on n/naka's Tock page: "Business casual attire is appropriate (no shorts or sandals please). If you'd like to be fancier, by all means please go for it!"
Hi Kevin! Your fellow food blogger here. Just wanted to let you know that you are the one who inspired me to start my food blog since 2011! I think we have similar taste. Cheers!
Great question!! We actually exchanged e-mails back in 2011. We both went to Lukshon at a different time when we first opened. You taught me to use manual white balance and told me to write more instead of just posting pictures, haha. I am still keeping my writing minimal. So many things happened between now and then. I stopped blogging for a while. Yesterday, I suddenly thought about your blog and decided to come back to check out! Then I found out that we go to the same restaurants! I also went to Kato recently and have been to Club 33 once. So there's no more subscribe button on your blog now?
Ah yes, I vaguely remember something about the manual setting of white balance; it's still something I do even to this day. But as for the subscribe button, I never quite understood how that worked, so not sure what happened with it.
Got it! Yes, I do manual white balance for indoors every time now. It makes a light and day difference! Thank you! So you are somehow my Sifu! I used to subscribe to your blog, then now it fell off. I will come visit manually then :)
I just went to this new izakaya restaurant, kodō, at Arts District tonight. I think you will like it! https://www.syorithefoodie.com/2022/05/kodoarts-district.html
Oh yeah, learning about white balance was a game-changer for my photos! However, I still run into issues when there's "mixed" lighting (i.e. sunlight and indoor light occurring at the same time).
But it's good to hear that you enjoyed kodō, since the place is definitely on my list to try.
Mixed lighting is a beast! I usually just use auto white balance for those! Then when the sun goes down and light changes, I had to measure the white balance. Manual white balance totally saves the day! The pictures are DAY AND NIGHT!
Hi Kevin, don't know if you heard, but Sushi Yamamoto replaced Urasawa location, and it's absolutely amazing!! Much better than Urasawa. I went to the pre-opening on Friday. Heard they will officially open April 12! https://www.syorithefoodie.com/2023/03/sushi-yamamotobeverly-hills.html
Syori: Oh yeah I've been keeping track of that place for a while. In fact, I first found out about the new ownership during a meal at Sushi Kisen. At the end of that post, I wrote:
Now as for Miura's next steps, he's apparently taken over the lease at a rather famous location in Beverly Hills, so I'm very curious to see what he ends up doing with the space. No timeline on that project yet, though.
Amazing! Sushi Kisen is on my list to try. Well, now Sushi Yamamoto is officially happening! I am returning again in end of April. There’s also a sake pairing event with omakase at Sawa (sister restaurant of Kaneyoshi) on 4/17 Mon you might be interested in! [ Special collaboration event Sake tasting Akabu and Ohmine ] https://www.exploretock.com/sawa/
Yep I saw that Yamamoto is open for booking. The $150 corkage fee is rather ridiculous though, and is a turn-off, especially when the highest in LA is currently $100.
Yup. $150 pretty means BYOB discouraged. They have a great selection of nice wines though! Teppei-san, the sommelier is awesome! I highly recommend you to try Yamamoto when the time comes for you. It's much better than Urasawa!
Yes!! I actually just went again on Thursday. They updated their sake/wine list. They even have Juyondai. We had a bottle of Ohmine Winter's Arrival ($120) - sparkling cloudy nigori, great for celebration. Then, we had a bottle of Broc Cellars The Perfect Red Red 2021 ($95). I uploaded them for you here, towards the end of the post: https://www.syorithefoodie.com/2023/04/sushi-yamamotobeverly-hills.html If you need help with pre-release reservation or anything, you can let me know. I am friends with Yusuke Yamamoto. Or, you can just tell them you are a friend of Christina :)
Ah thanks for the photos--I'll have to look through the list in detail if I go. It's interesting that he has a separate "Owner's Private Selection" section.
=)
ReplyDeleteHurry back from Japan and post! I wanna hear all about this fugu!
Great pictures and detailed comments! A lot of research is done.
ReplyDeleteKevin - I follow your posts via chowhound. You're one of my favorite reviewers. Thanks for putting up this blog - its easier to read than your myspace page.
ReplyDelete"There is no love sincerer than the love of food."
Bon Appetit!
Welcome to foodblogging on blogger! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree that this is easier to read than the myspace blog.
write more! i love reading your posts
ReplyDeleteThat's cool I was just going to suggest to you this type of arrangement!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this, Kevin ! It makes it very easy for me to find things now :)
ReplyDeleteI'm off to Charlie Palmer's for lunch tomorrow - wish me luck. So far, most people have given it a thumbs down...
Yeah I thought having an index of sorts would help organize things.
ReplyDeleteGood luck on CP. Hopefully it'll be better for you than me!
Great blog, awesome pictures from Manresa. Definitely one of my top 3 restaurants (Manresa, Coi, Stone Barns). Thanks, Ryan
ReplyDeletehttp://bestbyfarr.wordpress.com
Thanks Ryan. I just checked out your site and you have some pretty serious stuff on there!
ReplyDeleteSo what are your plans now that you're done with Orson?
Great! Looking forward to more posts!
ReplyDeleteThanks Sharon! You have quite a nice blog there yourself too. ;)
ReplyDeleteCould you put a 'Follow This Blog' button on your site...go to 'Edit Post' and then 'Layout' and you can add things and personalize your site with further information on yourself... -Chef E
ReplyDeleteI'm not following. When I go to "Edit Posts," I don't have anything labeled "Layout."
ReplyDeleteOn the main page, there is a "Subscribe to Posts" link if that's what you're looking for.
So glad that I found your blog!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Joey! How did you find it?
ReplyDeleteKevin! I love your blog, and I have to say we have some very similar tastes in food.
ReplyDeleteI would love for you to post a "best of" or favorites in Los Angeles! Or if you could name your top 3 restaurants here, it'd be very helpful.
Thanks, and keep on blogging!
Thanks! The top restaurant in LA for me is easy: Urasawa. As for the rest, it's not so clear, but Providence, Spago, CUT, and Sushi Zo are up there. Bastide too, if it were still around.
ReplyDeletehi kevin--if you're taking requests (!), here's mine: one of the momofuku restuarants in NYC--preferably ssäm bar. i'm dying for insider intel...
ReplyDeleteregards,
lori
Lori, I was sort of planning to go to Momofuku Ko on my NY trip over the holidays, but then Per Se came through! ;)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThanks, I'm glad you've been enjoying the blog.
ReplyDeleteI'm still figuring out what I want to do for a living. The current economic turmoil hasn't made things easier!
I think it's not so much an issue about "affording" to dine out as it is about priorities, and food for me is a high priority. So for example, next time, put down the Louboutins and go to Urasawa instead. ;)
Hi there, well I was in Chicago a couple of months ago (horrible timing..weather was bad bad bad!) but.. ALINEA made it all worth while.. I had the full tasting with the wine pairing.. did you get that too? It was heaven..and our servers were soo helpful. Looking at all your pictures made me hungry all over again... anyways, have you ever checked out a blog called the "hungry hedonist"? I don't think she has been updating it recently..but she had some amazing photos of places she tried... go check it out!
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you had a good time at Alinea. Yes I had the wine pairing; it's really the way to go with wine, as given the multitude of flavors in the Tour, you'd be hard pressed to come up with a bottle that goes with everything.
ReplyDeleteI wasn't familiar with Hungry Hedonist. She has some nice reviews (including Alinea), but sorely needs to update--the last post was in July 2008!
wow! simply wow! love your blog!!! <3
ReplyDeleteThanks J! How did you discover it?
ReplyDeleteSo it looks like you recently went to Breadbar for Ludo Bites. I am interested on what your thoughts are but it seems as though the Vegas trip will need to be taken care of first.
ReplyDeleteThe Vegas trip, and three other places will have to be dispensed with prior to Ludo Bites. Though the meal had its share of misses, overall I had a positive experience there, and I eagerly await Ludo's opening of his own restaurant.
ReplyDeletetotally in love with your blog, and a bit jealous of many of your foodings. thanks for the posts!
ReplyDeleteYou're quite welcome. Are there any particular places that've interested you?
ReplyDeleteIs there anyway to view your most recent restaurant visits?
ReplyDeleteYes, there certainly is. Look on the right hand side of the page and find the "Previous Posts" section; this lists my last nine posts.
ReplyDeleteSo I made tentative reservations, haha... we'll see if I can follow through. Nice finally getting to meet you in person after all this time.
ReplyDeleteVinh, nice to finally meet you too man. Bring your friend next week. ;)
ReplyDeleteKevin
ReplyDelete-First of all, thanks for sharing your experiences...I came across your blog by chance, and man, I couldn't stop reading and surveying your list of places. Will certainly come back to your blog whenever we're back in SoCal.
Also, surprised you haven't reviewed Campenile, which is one of our favs! Dude, I dig your pics and your descriptions, really gives us the feel of "being there"!
Peace,
Ron
Thanks Ron! I think you hit the nail on the head; what I aim to do here is to document a meal so it is really like "being there." You're right about Campanile though--I should make it out there some time!
ReplyDeleteNice Blog! I don't see fleur de lys...I'd love to read your review on that.
ReplyDeleteAhh Fleur de Lys...maybe next time I'm in San Francisco.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteCouldn't make it to Hatchi with Marcel?
ReplyDeleteIn Las Vegas for Bar Masa debut. ;)
ReplyDeleteHi, just found out your blog. What a nice review and picture you have here. I love Alinea too and would love to come back later :)
ReplyDeleteYun, I just read your Alinea post. Nice job on it, and your blog in general!
ReplyDeleteshaboo? please? hit it up? thanks.
ReplyDeleteWill: given the underwhelming experience at Bar Masa, Shaboo is unlikely.
ReplyDeleteWell damn, kevin. You're breaking my heart, but I guess blindly asking a total stranger to visit to shaboo was is worth the time.
ReplyDeleteNo one takes pictures like you do. You and your camera are made for the wallet abusing price of shaboo.
Eh, not that it matters. This space just doesn't fit the modern vegas clientele. In a year or two, this space will become the fanciest buffet in the history of western civilization.
Don't get me wrong, I love me some Guy Savoy and Joel's Atelier, but Masa's latest restaurant concept is about five years behind the curve....
It's not so much the price, but the experience that turns me off Shaboo. If I were to get a true Masa-esque experience there, then I would definitely consider the place. Going to Savoy or Robuchon would seem like a much better use of funds.
ReplyDeleteI've yet to see a positive review of either Bar Masa or Shaboo, so it'll be interesting to see what happens to the restaurant.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI have a wine tasting event coming up:
Zinfandel Grand Tasting & Cookoff
Sunday, April 18th 4:00-7:00 p.m.
Palm Garden at the Island Hotel
660 Newport Center Road
Newport Beach, CA 92660
If you would like to hold a contest for your readers, I can provide you with tickets for the winner.
Please contact me if you would like to participate in holding a contest.
Thank you!
Lori Olsen
editorial@great-taste.net
Love your foodie map, I should try that. Been to all your Chicago hits. I live in LA and I have a woeful record of the hot LA restaurants...I eat out more when I travel.
ReplyDeleteChicago is arguably the most cutting edge food city in the country--can't wait to return!
ReplyDeleteI definitely eat out more when I travel as well--since I have only a limited amount of time, I gotta make the most of it right?
You need to try The Hungry Cat Restaurant in Hollywood. It is real food, done by a real chef.
ReplyDeleteI agree about The Hungry Cat, but are you implying that most of the other restaurants here don't offer real food done by real chefs?
ReplyDeletei'm definitely a kevin eats fan. the meticulous process in which you document your food experience (food pics and narrative) deserves a "whoa dang" from me. it's like i'm hiding in your pocket while you're eating. drop a morsel in your pocket dangit! :( anyways, awesome blog. *high five*
ReplyDeleteThanks! My painfully detailed posts are one of my hallmarks. ;) *high five*
ReplyDeleteI was just checking old emails and I think your birthday was last Monday or so? Happy belated!
ReplyDeleteHa thanks Vinh, it was actually yesterday. ;)
ReplyDeleteKevin eats, and kevin cooks. Check out kevinkoss.com for a video of some Halibut, I think you'll like!
ReplyDeleteHello Kevin,
ReplyDeleteHope all has been well. I live here at San Francisco. Please let me know if you decide to check out Benu. I would like your opinion.
All the best
Jonathan
jonathanc372@gmail.com
Jonathan, believe me, Benu is at the top of my list for the Bay Area. I just don't know when I'll be up there next.
ReplyDeleteI really like the new navigation page!
ReplyDeleteAlinea received a 18/20 on Gayot? *Gasp*
Thanks Jen!
ReplyDeleteSo are you saying that a 18/20 is too high or too low for Alinea? Note that French Laundry, Per Se, Joel Robuchon, and Citronelle have all got scores of 19/20.
That's what I noticed! I was surprised Alinea didn't receive a 19/20 as well, since it's ranked as the "best restaurant" in the US on S. Pellegrino. Then again I haven't been to any of these restaurants, haha.
ReplyDeleteIt's probably because Alinea's style is a bit more unconventional than the others'. It'll be interesting to see if the restaurant gets 3 stars in the upcoming Michelin rating.
ReplyDeleteOo I want to see that! Too bad LA is not getting a Michelin publication this year. :(
ReplyDeleteI have a feeling that they won't be returning for a long time: http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/10/14/michelin_guide_director_people_in_la_are_not_real_foodies.php
ReplyDeleteWill you ever get on Hells Kitchen as a guest in the dinning room?
ReplyDeleteGood question. I'd certainly like to, but I don't have any connections over at FOX. I'm not holding my breath.
ReplyDeleteKevin, I finally tried Joel Robuchon this past Monday. It was probably my best French Dinner ever. I was in Absolute Bliss. I of course had the 13 course Degustation Tasting Menu. They also started wine pairings for this menu at 3 denominations $295, $595, and $995 pp. Not sure if offered for other tasting menu's though. I got to meet the man, in fact heard another blogger say Chef would be in town from the 14-18 of Nov. and scheduled my dinner accordingly. Got a copy of menu with wine pairings signed by chef himself. And no, he cannot speak a word of English although he did have an interpreter. My meal alone was $880 incl. of tax & tip, probably my most expensive but delightful meal ever.
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear that you enjoyed yourself at Robuchon--I need to get back there sometime. I'm surprised that they're offering wine pairings now. What did the $995 one comprise of to justify the cost? My first meal there was also my most expensive ever, at $775 (there was a $1100 Urasawa dinner, but I didn't pay for it).
ReplyDeleteHi Kevin! Chef Makoto had brought up your name & your blog, and now I'm a big fan =) Thank you for the great reviews!
ReplyDeleteHey Rina, I'm glad to hear that you've been able to enjoy the blog! =) How did my name come up with Chef Makoto?
ReplyDeleteStill no Kitchen 1540?
ReplyDeleteBobby, it's up here. Just had some time-critical posts that I needed to get up beforehand.
ReplyDeleteSpent 25+ years in Specialty Construction Materials Marketing and Sales all over North America and parts of Europe...favorite part of the job was being forced at gunpoint to severely entertain Specifying and Purchasing Customers....One neat trick is to politely ask the Convention Hotel Restaurant Staff, "So, like, where's the Second Best Restaurant in town ??" Get lots of great candid recommendations that way....
ReplyDeleteChow on, Dude...and keep writing and snapping..!!
Right on Willy. Sounded like a pretty sweet gig--dining out on the company dime is always nice!
ReplyDeleteJust had a random thought. What if you set the date of this post to the way future. Then you won't have to republish again and again! Haha. Merry Christmas, Kevin! :)
ReplyDeleteJennifer, each of my posts is dated to the date of the actual visit, not when I posted. Thus, I reset the date of this index post to the date of the latest blog update. ;)
ReplyDeleteKevin - You might want to check your links. I tried clicking on "Binh Dan" from the California OC menu and it took forever. Finally, I just closed the page.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThi, can you check again? It just loaded up fine for me.
ReplyDeleteHello Kevin,
ReplyDeleteI love your website and your reviews and have commented several times (albeit "anonymously" b/c I'm too lazy to create a profile).
Just a comment on website design: would you ever consider ditching the interactive map. It's so busy that it's almost unusable. I also think that, considering your creativity and thoughtfulness, that you could put a beautiful photo or graphic that that captures the essence of your website.
Just my 2 cents.
Tally Ho!
Good to hear that you've been enjoying the blog. It's interesting that you mention the map, because I'm actually planning to move it to a separate page to speed up loading.
ReplyDeleteexcellent blog, i'm going to spend quite some time going through your archives as it seems like we live in the same area and have visited mane of the same restaurants
ReplyDeleteWhere do you live, and which of the same restaurants?
ReplyDeleteChef Makoto enjoyed & appreciated your post about Sashi. He's no longer at Sashi because he's opening "MAKOTO" at the Bal Harbour Shops in Miami in mid March. He said to please visit if you come to Florida! =)
ReplyDeleteRina, why did Makoto decide to leave Sashi, and why did he want to open up a place in Florida instead of locally?
ReplyDeleteHe loved Sashi & worked hard to open it but he got an awesome oppurtunity with famous restaurateur Stephen Starr (he has many restaurants in Philadelphia and Morimoto restaurants). The restaurant is in Bal Harbour Shops which is supposedly a world known high end mall. He thought it would be a great opportunity to start his own brand & open a restaurant in his name. The restaurant will be a lot different from Sashi. It will be more traditional Japanese.
ReplyDeleteGot it--I totally understand why he made the move. Are you in LA as well? How do you know Makoto?
ReplyDeleteI'm originally from LA, went to UCSD, moved back for a few months, then moved to Bal Harbour (north of Miami) to help open MAKOTO. I'm his assistant. I miss LA!! I wish I could come back..I check your blog on a daily basis & there's so many places I missed out :(
ReplyDeleteWere you recently drinking Burgundy in Luggage Room in Pasadena w/ some friends?
ReplyDeleteRina: Got it. So are you ever planning to return then? Also, did I see you at the final dinner at The Dining Room?
ReplyDeleteAnon: Nope. In fact, I've never even been there.
You should go, decent pizza place without the Mozza 'tude. Anyhow, this group was a bit on the pretentious side @ LR and claimed to be into Burgundy. The downside to wine I suppose, point-chasers and label whores.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the detailed reviews!
Cool. I wasn't even aware of the Luggage Room before, but will keep it in mind if I'm in the mood for pizza. What kind of Burgundy were they drinking?
ReplyDeleteI don't see the Canadian cities of Vancouver, BC (which includes Richmond, BC, a suburb) or Toronto.
ReplyDeleteCome on!!!!!! Chinese disapora world-wide make an effort to go to Richmond to eat the real deal.
Anyway a Richmond food blogger couple. He is Malayasian-Chinese-Canadian she's Chinese (but that's all I know). http://chowtimes.com/
Jean, you know, I've actually never been up to Canada before!
ReplyDeleteThis blog is just amazing. I love the photos.
ReplyDeleteThanks Louis--looks like you have some serious travels of your own there.
ReplyDeleteinstead of archive by dates, can you do category tags instead on your right hand panel :) love your blog!
ReplyDeleteThanks--unfortunately that wouldn't work, as the individual posts do not have any sort of tagging on them. :p
ReplyDeleteHey Kevin, any aspirations on checking out the dining scene in Portland, OR?
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately I don't have any Portland plans in the near future. Are you from there? If I do end up in the City, where should I be going?
ReplyDeleteKevin, I have been hearing great reviews about sushi noguchi in Yorba Linda. We usually look at your sushi reviews before we dine out and we would love to see what you think of the pla.ce
ReplyDeleteThanks for the suggestion! It actually looks like a nice place. Unfortunately I rarely get out to Yorba Linda, but I'll definitely keep Noguchi in mind next time I'm there.
ReplyDeleteKevin, Love following your foodie eats! My husband and I are celebrating our anniversary next month and want a great omakase experience (we loved Sasabune in Honolulu). What are your top 2 preferences (we live in San Diego but love to drive for good food)?
ReplyDeleteThanks Kevin!
In SD, I've heard good things about Ota and Kaito.
ReplyDeleteUp here, the #1 spot obviously belongs to Urasawa. After that would probably be Mori Sushi and Sushi Zo.
This Blog is Awesome!
ReplyDeleteThanks! Where are you going to school?
ReplyDeleteCan you please take me out to dinner some timeeeeeee?!?! you have seriously been to all the best restaurants that I have been dying to try
ReplyDeletecan you take me out to dinner some time? you have been to all the best restaurants I have been wanting to try
ReplyDeleteI like your blog, I really do, but if you use the fucking word "vegetal" one more time I will stop reading. OK I'm being dramatic, but don't you get sick of typing the same words over and over to describe food? My other pet peeve words are "lactic," "tang,"and the phrase "lingered on the palate." Your descriptions are so heavy handed and repetitive half the time, and brilliant and illuminating the other half. Think about it this way; you don't always have to tell us point blank what it tastes like to provide a good description.
ReplyDeleteI will say this, though, you know how to eat, man. Sounds dumb, but not everyone knows how to eat properly, especially the when it comes to eating food of such a high level of quality.
@aaron... Dramatic or not, take yourself away!
ReplyDeletei was just wondering how do i subscribe to your blog? im obviously not very tech savvy lol
ReplyDeleteIt would be cool if you had an ever present side column of your top restaurants that you want to visit.
ReplyDeleteAny thoughts on coming up to Portland anytime soon?
ReplyDeleteCan you really actually smell or tatse anything? Your nose is so far up all these asses. hinoki & the bird was dreadful. You clearly get off on trying to be the "first " to review places. Doesnt make u cool. Only rather pathetic. Get a life.
ReplyDeleteYou're the pathetic one.
ReplyDeletegreat blog. long time reader. what websites do you use for wine ratings and recommendations?
ReplyDeleteCan you take my dinedelish.com to LA Food and Wine? Are you going? They haven't got back to him yet on whether or not he can go as part of their media. If you plan on going,let him know. - your fan, Melanie
ReplyDeleteRegards from Finland, Europe. Even though we have over 5600 miles the distance between us, I am a big fan of your blog. Great blog, awesome pictures. I started with CUT [2] posting 2008 and since then been hooked. I have really enjoyed your postings. Still my favorites are the Urasawa's.
ReplyDeleteGreat Work, Kevin. Your pictures and descriptions are terrific. Now we're off to Little Sister to try the ma la tartar! On that note, have you had Tony Xu's house-made Szechuan sausages at Chengdu Taste yet?
ReplyDeleteBest, Daniel.
www.cinefoodie.com
hey man why were you banned from yelp?
ReplyDeleteHi Kevin:
ReplyDeleteHow on earth can you afford to eat at all these restaurants? Do they sponsor you or you part of the Berkshire Hathaway family? I'm confused....these are not all affordable venues for us common folks....
Best....
J
Fantastic blog - keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteThink you should try Ahi Poki Bowl in Temple City. Would like your review. They are doing their soft opening.
ReplyDeleteWow, lots of haters on this one. Keep up the great work Kevin, YOU AWESOME!
ReplyDeleteHi Kevin - even though I live in NYC I love your blog. Pull it up everyday to see if you've posted. Love the pics and thorough reviews, great job. Just curious why you haven't been to/reviewed any sushi restaurants lately? Sushi is my favorite and always interested to see what the LA sushi chefs are up to these days...
ReplyDeleteThanks and keep posting!
Dear Keven
ReplyDeleteIff your in San Diego my wife also has a restaurant that specializes in traditional Mexican food beginning with Cochinita Peril a slow roasted pork, Barbacoa marinated lamb slow cooked in guajillo chili for 5-6 hours, Huitlecoche or corn truffle quesadilla served with Mexican cheese and homemade salsa, fresh cactus salad, real guacamole, homemade tortillas, fresh juices all from scratch. The fair is regional, indigenous pre Hispanic Mexican are looking forward to your oppinion. Below is a link to their reviews on Yelp, Facebook and a national commercial of the restaurant. thank you for your time.
Sincerely Ronnie Attiq
EL BORREGO RESTURANT
4280 El Cajon Blvd
San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 281-1355
https://www.facebook.com/El-Borrego-Restaurant-197243366985411/
https://www.yelp.com/biz/el-borrego-restaurant-san-diego
https://youtu.be/r29Px_wzyg8
Love your blog, been following for a few years. Forgive the question, but I'm curious: Have you ever reviewed (or eaten at) an African restaurant? Thanks again for sharing your passion for great eateries.
ReplyDeleteHi Kevin,
ReplyDeleteI would like to know where you purchase your beer? Looking for great recommendations in Los Angeles.
Thanks,
Max
what's going on with Urasawa???
ReplyDeletehttps://www.google.co.kr/amp/la.eater.com/platform/amp/2016/10/25/13404158/urasawa-closed-rumormongering-beverly-hills-sushi-lawsuit?client=safari
hey Kevin, i wish there was an equivalent to what you do here in berlin! thanks for saving us alot of money :D
ReplyDeleteif i ever get the chance to visit LA i will make sure to bring a list from kevineats restaurants ;)
hello, kevin.
ReplyDeletewas looking for no-BS reviews on Vespertine and found your blog.
consider me a new fan.
my friends and i appreciate your sharing and it'll greatly help us make future dining decisions.
thank you and keep up the good work!
Hi Kevin,
ReplyDeleteLike so many others that follow and appreciate your detailed descriptions of food, I’m also an avid follower of your culinary journey. As someone who is currently residing in Los Angeles, I found your blog to be a source of truth when looking to dine out. Every review you write is consistent with high-level craftmanship that cannot be found anywhere else. Hats off to you Kevin!
Thanks Deez. I'm curious, how long have you been reading the blog?
ReplyDeleteHey Kevin, which month did you post the most reviews?
ReplyDeleteThanks.
In terms of most restaurants posted about per month, I believe it's going to be May 2015 and October 2019, with 13 posts each.
ReplyDeleteKevin, I just found out that the Mattatouille guy now writes for Eater LA. I was confused when I went on to mattatouille.com and found something in French haha
ReplyDeleteOh yeah Matt's been with Eater for years now. It is interesting to see that he's apparently lost control of his old domain name, which is sort of a shame.
ReplyDeleteI also just realized he's in charge of their tweets. Does he still go to restaurants with you guys? Obviously not with COVID but otherwise.
ReplyDeleteOh no, I haven't seen him or any other old school LA bloggers in years. I think it's been nearly a decade by this point.
ReplyDeleteThat sucks. Non-covid do you dine with any bloggers?
ReplyDeleteAh I do not anymore. The OG LA blogger community had largely broken apart by the end of the early 2010s. And sadly, food blogs in general are out of fashion these days.
ReplyDeleteI'm headed to L.A. in April. I've got Providence, Kato, and n/naka reservations so far. Aiming for some others (but Hayato is closed on easter Sunday and that was the night I had open for them). Any thoughts on dress codes on these places? Would "casual shoes" (not tennis shoes), nice jeans, and a polo shirt be OK? If not, I guess I'll pack some better clothes...
ReplyDeleteNice lineup Dan! So I'd say that Providence and n/naka are a step up in the fanciness department from Kato.
ReplyDeleteI'd have no problem wearing your proposed outfit to Kato, but for the others, I personally would feel more comfortable in something like a long-sleeved dress-type shirt paired with nice jeans or slacks. That being said, I don't think either restaurant would ask you to leave or anything like that.
Also, I just found this statement on n/naka's Tock page: "Business casual attire is appropriate (no shorts or sandals please). If you'd like to be fancier, by all means please go for it!"
Thanks for the help! Cheers!
ReplyDeletethanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Kevin! Your fellow food blogger here. Just wanted to let you know that you are the one who inspired me to start my food blog since 2011! I think we have similar taste. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteSyori, since you've been reading this blog for over a decade, why is this the first time you decided to leave a comment?!
ReplyDeleteGreat question!! We actually exchanged e-mails back in 2011. We both went to Lukshon at a different time when we first opened. You taught me to use manual white balance and told me to write more instead of just posting pictures, haha. I am still keeping my writing minimal. So many things happened between now and then. I stopped blogging for a while. Yesterday, I suddenly thought about your blog and decided to come back to check out! Then I found out that we go to the same restaurants! I also went to Kato recently and have been to Club 33 once. So there's no more subscribe button on your blog now?
ReplyDeleteAh yes, I vaguely remember something about the manual setting of white balance; it's still something I do even to this day. But as for the subscribe button, I never quite understood how that worked, so not sure what happened with it.
ReplyDeleteGot it! Yes, I do manual white balance for indoors every time now. It makes a light and day difference! Thank you! So you are somehow my Sifu! I used to subscribe to your blog, then now it fell off. I will come visit manually then :)
ReplyDeleteI just went to this new izakaya restaurant, kodō, at Arts District tonight. I think you will like it!
ReplyDeletehttps://www.syorithefoodie.com/2022/05/kodoarts-district.html
Oh yeah, learning about white balance was a game-changer for my photos! However, I still run into issues when there's "mixed" lighting (i.e. sunlight and indoor light occurring at the same time).
ReplyDeleteBut it's good to hear that you enjoyed kodō, since the place is definitely on my list to try.
Mixed lighting is a beast! I usually just use auto white balance for those! Then when the sun goes down and light changes, I had to measure the white balance. Manual white balance totally saves the day! The pictures are DAY AND NIGHT!
ReplyDeleteYep, I actually typically avoid eating around sundown to avoid problems with mixed lighting (and I don't prefer eating early in general, either).
ReplyDeleteTry Mother Tongue. They just opened this week. Highly recommended! You don't need to be a member of the gym to dine there.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.syorithefoodie.com/2022/06/mother-tonguewest-hollywood.html
Yep Christina, Mother Tongue is already on my list of places to try!
ReplyDeleteHi Kevin, don't know if you heard, but Sushi Yamamoto replaced Urasawa location, and it's absolutely amazing!! Much better than Urasawa. I went to the pre-opening on Friday. Heard they will officially open April 12!
ReplyDeletehttps://www.syorithefoodie.com/2023/03/sushi-yamamotobeverly-hills.html
Syori: Oh yeah I've been keeping track of that place for a while. In fact, I first found out about the new ownership during a meal at Sushi Kisen. At the end of that post, I wrote:
ReplyDeleteNow as for Miura's next steps, he's apparently taken over the lease at a rather famous location in Beverly Hills, so I'm very curious to see what he ends up doing with the space. No timeline on that project yet, though.
Amazing! Sushi Kisen is on my list to try. Well, now Sushi Yamamoto is officially happening! I am returning again in end of April.
ReplyDeleteThere’s also a sake pairing event with omakase at Sawa (sister restaurant of Kaneyoshi) on 4/17 Mon you might be interested in!
[ Special collaboration event Sake tasting Akabu and Ohmine ]
https://www.exploretock.com/sawa/
Hi Kevin, wanted to introduce this one to you! Good price! Hidden gem like Taira!
ReplyDeleteMuzen Sushi at Westlake Village
https://www.syorithefoodie.com/2023/04/muzen-sushiwestlake-village.html
I'm not keen on driving all the way out to Westlake Village unless it's for something truly special!
ReplyDeleteOK! Muzen Sushi is not something truly special. Just their pricing is good. Similar to Taira.
ReplyDeleteSushi Yamamoto opens to public booking 5/2! https://www.exploretock.com/sushi-yamamoto-beverly-hills/
Yep I saw that Yamamoto is open for booking. The $150 corkage fee is rather ridiculous though, and is a turn-off, especially when the highest in LA is currently $100.
ReplyDeleteYup. $150 pretty means BYOB discouraged. They have a great selection of nice wines though! Teppei-san, the sommelier is awesome! I highly recommend you to try Yamamoto when the time comes for you. It's much better than Urasawa!
ReplyDeleteHmmm is Yamamoto's sake/wine list available for viewing anywhere? Might you have taken a photo of it?
ReplyDeleteYes!! I actually just went again on Thursday. They updated their sake/wine list. They even have Juyondai. We had a bottle of Ohmine Winter's Arrival ($120) - sparkling cloudy nigori, great for celebration. Then, we had a bottle of Broc Cellars The Perfect Red Red 2021 ($95). I uploaded them for you here, towards the end of the post:
ReplyDeletehttps://www.syorithefoodie.com/2023/04/sushi-yamamotobeverly-hills.html
If you need help with pre-release reservation or anything, you can let me know. I am friends with Yusuke Yamamoto. Or, you can just tell them you are a friend of Christina :)
Ah thanks for the photos--I'll have to look through the list in detail if I go. It's interesting that he has a separate "Owner's Private Selection" section.
ReplyDeleteI saw my friend ordered No. 6 from the "Owner's Private Selection". Interesting but super pricey!
ReplyDelete