Looking for an exclusive, top of the line dining experience in the LA/OC area. Based on chuck's info, it would seem either of the 2 would be good food choices, but I'm not sure if either are good anniversary/romance spots.

Anything else I should consider?

BTW, I'm not looking for just a "nice" place that you would go to on a weekly basis...I'm looking for a true experience.

Open to just about any idea!

 

depends on what you want. IMHO, Urasawa is unquestionably the more unique and fun experience. It is very personal with lots of interactions with the chef and staff, you will eat tons of interesting things, and in general you will leave very happy. The negative is that you don't really have any privacy and it's fairly casual, so it's not romantic in the "dark lit room, fancy dress, serious discussions about love and life" sense of the word.

Providence gives you that privacy. It's just a very good, upscale restaurant where you will receive great food and service, can get dressed up, etc. It's a more standard restaurant experience though.

 

I have yet to go, but how about Bastide? I have heard that they have a really nice outdoor patio, but don't know how the food is. Chuck could probably provide some information.

 

Thanks steve...any other top notch places in your neck of the woods?

My other concern about Urasawa is my previously discussed aversion to certain foods: no pork, no organ meats (from any species), and no spongy/chewy fish (clam, oyster, sea urchin, mussel, etc...). It kind of seems like that will cut the Urasawa Omakase in half, unless they are willing to accommodate me.

 

Bastide used to be one of the top places in LA, but they got a new chef last year and I have heard very mixed reviews since then.

Anyone know if its top notch again?

 

Bastide is very different now. I'd do Providence above it in your situation.

Those restrictions at Urasawa aren't TOO terribly bad. Hiro will gladly accommodate you.

 

the (new) chef @ Bastide just left so i'd rule that out (though the former incarnation would have definitely worked.)

steveh explains it well above - providence for romance - urasawa for quality and uniqueness.

if you choose urasawa, definitely tell them on the phone, when you make the reservation, that laundry list - i'm sure he can accommodate you but he'll need to plan.

- chuck

 

Well unfortunately Urasawa is booked for the next 3 weeks in a row, and my anniversary is less than 7 days away!

Award for the worst procrastinator in the world goes to.....YOURS TRULY

I will check out providence and hopefully squeeze in a reservation there.

 

Here's a couple of other suggestions:

After hearing about it for ages i went to SUR recently on a date, the atmosphere / decor of the restaurant is smashing. The food IMO was average, though many rave about it. It's certainly a romantic spot.

Comme Ca is buzzy and always a good night out, not terribly romantic though. I've had 3 terrific meals there and will continue to go back.

Geoffries in Malibu is romantic, food is decent enough.

Osteria Latini in Brentwood is one of my favorite restaurants, lovely Italian place. I haven't been there in over a year come to think of it, i'll go next week.

Just thought i'd throw a few options out there,

Josh.

 

Steve, Josh, Chuck, et al:

I appreciate the info, but the Mrs. and I have decided to keep it local to OC.

Currently debating:

1. Studio @ Montage (currently sold out, but I think I can pull some strings)
2. Loft @ Montage
3. Stonehill Tavern (Michael Mina)@ St. Regis
4. Napa Rose @ Disney's Grand California
5. Tradition by Pascal
6. Golden Truffle