AJ "(-_-)zzz" K.'s Profile

To be honest, I will admit that I was a bit apprehensive about dining at XIV after reading some of the reviews.  On the other hand, I had only heard praise regarding Michael Mina and his restaurants so I kept my fingers crossed.  We decided to make reservations on Monday at 7:45pm for the dineLA event.  Despite a couple snafus on my part, we were running ahead of schedule and had no problem getting seated promptly around 7:35pm.  

Prior to ordering we received individual servings of warm pita bread that appeared to be brushed with butter and had a hint of sweetness.  It was served with a dollop of feta-yogurt.  So delicious~ I would go back just for that.

APPETIZER
Tataki of American Wagyu Skirt, Moroccan Spiced Vegetables
- The portion of meat was larger than expected.  It had a salty crust and was cooked medium rare (not so much tataki-style).  I thought wagyu would be, how should I say - melt in my mouth, but I found it to be more or less chewy.  Perhaps it was because it was wagyu skirt or because it was cut on the thicker side.  The Moroccan spices were mild and barely noticeable with the vegetables (red shallots, carrots, mushrooms, potato).  They tasted as if they had been marinated in a tart vinegar based dressing, which might have overpowered the usually discernible spices.

Heirloom Beets, Burrata, Wild Arugula, Aged Balsamic, New Olive Oil
- The multi-colored beets were tender and sweet.  The Burrata, as envisioned, was creamy and delectable!  And again, there was a liberal sprinkling of salt.  

ENTREE
Tai Snapper, Tapioca-Crusted, Broccoli Rabe, White Soy Vinaigrette
- The snapper was cooked perfectly with a light golden brown crust outside, while moist and flaky on the inside.  It was served atop a pan fried rice square and a bed of broccoli rabe.  The rice cake was crispy and chewy.  It did a nice job of absorbing some of the vinaigrette which possessed strong aspects of sweet and salty.  The rabe/rapini was tender and imparted a pleasant freshness to cut through the oil.  There was also a decorative brush of something that resembled a spicy tomato paste.  When mixed with the vinaigrette dressing it produced a slight heat to the sauce bringing in another dimension.

Asparagus Risotto, Squash Blossom, Chervil, Castelmagno Cheese
- The risotto was thick and creamy.  It was surprisingly heavier than it looked due to the castelmagno cheese.  Although the flavor of the cheese was prominent, it was still mild enough for the asparagus to stand out.  It was accompanied with thinly sliced asparagus and tempura squash blossoms.  I only wish the squash blossoms were prepared differently because it truly lost its delicate flavor in all the batter.

DESSERT
Dark Chocolate Cake, Coffee Cream, Coconut Sorbet, Crunchy Peanut
- Deconstructed candy bar.  This dessert definitely had lot of textures going on - moist and rich cake, sticky and chewy coconut, crunchy and creamy peanut butter/paste, cool and creamy coconut sorbet.  Each item was prepared distinctively and complimented each other fittingly.  There was also a green colored gelée of some kind which had an herb-like quality.  I found it interesting that they topped the dessert with sprigs of pea sprouts for added peppery zest.

Brandied Bananas, Jasmine Ice Cream, Cashew Shortbread, English Toffee
- The jasmine ice cream was very good, however we thought it resembled more of a honeysuckle flavor.  And what we thought was marzipan must have been cashew shortbread balls.  The cashew shortbread had a nice round nuttiness to it and a creamy, gooey texture much like peanut butter.  The toffee crumbles were light and crisp as well.  I didn't get to taste the bananas so I am unsure of the intensity of the brandy.

BEVERAGE
To accompany our dinner we went with the Pinot Noir by Tyler.  It was a lighter and fruitier style pinot and paired well with our dishes.  As an after dinner digestif we also ordered a glass of Fernet Branca - a bitter, herbal spirit.

We were pleased with the service, as the host, wait staff, and sommelier were all friendly and helpful.  Our dishes were cleared when we were ready and efficiently.  Although it was a bit slow in the beginning of the night, the place picked up quickly after 8:30pm.  I'd probably give the food about 3.5 stars, but am bumping it up to 4 for the stellar service.  Valet parking is $10, or you can try a lot down the block down on Sunset or the streets.

So after our dining experience and seeing the place first hand, I can understand how the reviews could be across the spectrum.  I think some words of advice would be 1) remember you are in Hollywood 2) in addition to the restaurant it operates as a bar/lounge so expect a certain atmosphere and adapt accordingly 3) the dining area is small so tables will be placed close together 4) I wouldn't recommend parties more than 6, smaller the better.  

Special Note:  Mondays all wines are 50% off.

OH - MY - GOD.  Becky, look at her butt.  It is so, big. *scoff*
She looks like, one of those rap guys' girlfriends...

Damn right~ this shit (cycling shorts) is padded yo!  *spank myself*  :oD
After I naively signed up for the Rosarito/Ensenada bike ride, there was no way in hell I was going to ride 50 miles without maximum protection for my delicute buns ;oP  

As usual, the lovely Erica C already illustrated a thorough review of the event.  However my experience, which was just as amazing, was somewhat different.  You see, I haven't been on a bicycle in over 15 years!  (Crazy much??  I know... but I live for stuff like this~).  So here you have a beginner by all means, and I was able to complete it in about 5.5 hrs.

My synopsis of the route is like this:
- First 10 miles, small rolling hills through the city and along the coast.  Not too tough and wonderful view of the ocean.
- Around mile 15-20, more hills through the inland area and it starts to get hotter.  You can see El Tigre in the distance and the winding path up the mountain.  
- You hit mile 25 while you are about halfway up the mountain.  In September the temperature is in the 90's and there are few spots for shade.  The elevation also makes it a little tough to take deep breaths.  I wasn't as hardcore as the other riders and had to walk parts of the hill because I was already suffering from a mild knee injury.  
- Around mile 35 is when you start to go "downhill."  I put this in quotes because although you are technically going down the hill, there are plateaus and sections where there is a small incline.  The whole fun of going downhill is to zoom down the mountain at 40+ mph, but whenever I saw these small hills I found myself doing facepalms and saying "are you fucking kidding me" under my breath. lol.  But the last downhill is steep, fast, and fun!
- Last 8-10 mile stretch, ass is on fire!!  I promised myself that I would not get off and finish before 4pm.  I pedaled with the last ounce of determination while maintaining a steady speed of about 10-12 mph.  
- As you approach the finish line you see people clapping and cheering you on, which motivates you to keep going, but then you're suddenly told to stop and get off once you cross.  Wait, that's it??  Haha~

This is a strenuous and demanding course, but not impossible.  In my opinion, complete dedication is crucial in finishing this ride.  I'm not talking about physical abilities because I saw people of all shapes, sizes, ages attempt this challenge.  I believe, more than anything, that it is mental.  Much like a marathon or eating contest, it's mind over matter.  However, if you do find yourself having a breakdown, I think there are trucks that pick you and your bike up to take you to the finish line.

I have been wanting to sign up for this ride since 2007, but due to scheduling conflicts, lack of a bike, and rumors of it closing down I didn't get the opportunity until now.  Not only did I experience a wonderful feeling of accomplishment, but it was a very thought evoking journey for me.  I eagerly look forward to doing the ride again! :o)  And this time, actually physically preparing for it, because apparently going to one spin class and riding a bike for 5 mins back and forth in a parking lot does NOT qualify as training.

Hungover and needing some spicy, greasy food I did a search on the Yelp app.  Thai?  Sounds good.

I barely made it at around 8:45pm, almost closing time.  I was surprised to find the place so dark and the interior looking uncomfortably sparse.  I hardly ate anything all day so I was starvin' like marvin.  We ordered a small bowl of thom yum koong, chicken pad see ew, garlic pepper beef, and kung pao chicken (don't ask, it wasn't my idea).  I'm glad we ordered a lot because the food portions were slightly smaller than usual for places like these (asian take-out).  

The soup was spicy and sour, but I found the fish sauce to be a bit overwhelming in my current state.  The noodles were seasoned ok but they were over cooked and was mushy.  The garlic beef had a mild flavor and the meat was not too tough.  The kung pao chicken was not at all what we were expecting.  Instead of a glaze sauce with red chiles, it was made in the "healthy style" saute with a clear sauce and strips of white meat chicken.  It was, different.

They have a beer special right now, 50% off, which they let us take to go in a brown paper bag.  They have a random selection of Bud, Kirin, and Amstel Light to name a few.  I asked for 3 Amstel lights.  What?  Oh right... hungover.  Yeah... oops.

We were searching for a casual dinner spot prior to catching a show at Spaceland.  I read the reviews for Dusty's and noticed it was popular for their breakfast and brunch, however we decided to check out this place anyway.  When we arrived, I was surprised to find various English and Italian items on the menu.  I thought Dusty's was supposed to be French Bistro style fare?  Hmmm I get it, a jack of all trades - master of none.

We ordered the Moules Frites (steamed mussels with french fries in a marinara sauce) and a Steak salad (organic flat iron steak, string beans, endive, heirloom tomatoes, gorgonzola, fingerling potatoes, pecans, and red wine vinaigrette).  The mussels were of the smaller variety and the sauce/broth had a nice flavor.  I'd say that it was the better of the two dishes.  As for my entree, the salad part was fresh and crisp.  However the steak was too tough.  I'm not sure if it's because it was served cold but I found myself cutting through a lot of gristle.  The red wine vinaigrette was simple and creamy (rather than clear).

To accompany our meal we opted for a Graff Family mourvedre 2005.  It was a bright, fruity wine that paired well with the seafood and steak.  I noticed people mentioning their bread, which was ok.  It was a crusty baguette served with a sweet pepper dressing/sauce/puree(?).  I am partial to butter, so I requested some.  I noticed they sprinkled a little salt on it, but it didn't do enough to cover the slight refrigerator taste.

Service was agreeable.  Our server came by regularly to check on us and make sure everything was all right.  I'd have to give this place about 2.5 stars for their dinner only.  The quality of ingredients are good, but could use some more attention when it comes to execution.

I came to watch The 88's perform last Tuesday.  This was my first time here.  It was a little smaller than expected, but I prefer intimate venues when it comes to certain artists anyway.  It wasn't very crowded so there were plenty of seats and room at the tables to rest our drinks.  

I didn't get a chance to explore the back room, but I could see there were pool tables and heard there was another bar up there.  The bathrooms were clean, but the doors were a bit sticky (push hard).  The bar is decently stocked and have a reasonable selection of beers.  Drinks are moderately priced and cocktails are served up in the usual style.  

I don't know if they have a lot or valet, but parking wasn't too hard if you don't mind walking.  We found parking a couple blocks up to avoid the permit areas.  I'd give this place a 3.5 stars for now.  I'm pretty sure I'll be back to check out more bands.

I like places that take criticism with an open ear, and make an effort to apply positive changes.  I came here about a week ago to meet up with some friends for happy hour.  I wasn't very hungry but found myself sampling a variety of items from their new and improved menu.

What I tried:
Curry Cioppino - Curry flavor wasn't too heavy and complimented the seafood fine.  It was served with a giant shrimp, some scallops, and large clams.  I wish it came with more than one shrimp because it had really good flavor (probably because it was cooked with the head on).  The broth was on the thicker side which made it feel more like a stew.
Stuffed Mushrooms - Four large mushrooms filled with a cheesy spinach stuffing.  Everything was fresh and tasty, but the flavor fell a little flat.
Chili Cheese Sweet Potato Fries - The fries were sweet, tender, and crisp with the right about of salt.  The chili cheese was a simple bean based style and held it's own (for being vegan) against the fries.
Onion Rings - Just how I like them.  Not too heavily breaded, just enough seasoning, crunchy, and chewy.
Cheese Pizza - Nothing spectacular.  A step up from the frozen boxed, but still kind of bland.

I gave the place 3 stars before for their atmosphere (3 stars) and food (2 stars).  Now, with the improvements to the food (3 stars) and a full liquor license (3.5 stars), I'm willing to bump it up to 4 stars.

Bowl of Beef Noodle soup  (2.5 stars)
Plate of Spicy Crispy Chicken and rice  (3 stars)
Pot of Almond Rose tea  (3.5 stars)
Butter Brick Toast  (4 stars)

Portions are sizeable and quality is average.  Service isn't the best, but what do you expect from a place representin' teeny-boppers in full effect.

On to the more important questions:
Wi-Fi:  Wouldn't be surprised if there was
Delivery:  Doubt it, Jimmy is busy talking to the chicks drinking boba
Price Range: $$, Kids are definitely getting better allowances these days :o\
Accepts Credit Cards:  Ayup
Parking:  If you can find a spot that hasn't already been taken by a car that belongs in an import/tuner magazine
Attire:  Casual, but you still wanna look cute for one of those boys driving those cars
Good for Groups:  Hell yeah, bring the whole class
Good for Kids:  It's rare to see old farts here
Takes Reservations:  What?
Take-Out:  Of course, for those days aunt Flo is visitin' and you don't feel like putting on your face
Waiter Service:  Sometimes, when Jenny isn't busy txting
Wheelchair Accessible:  Fo Sho
Outdoor seating:  Only place to sit during the summer nights (and check out your car that belongs in an import/tuner magazine)
Good for: Dinner and Late Night
Alcohol:  Just wait a couple more years kids

I came here to gear myself up for the 50 mile Rosarito/Ensenada ride */wrists.*  I cannot speak for their bike services but Performance Bicycle is an easy one stop shop for your basic cycling needs.  The place is very small so inventory is sparse, and finding a knowledgeable employee is hit or miss.  Luckily, I was able to find everything I needed and on sale for cheaper than the website:
- Performance brand padded Ultra bike short, $59
- Giro helmet, $25
- Performance brand cycling shirt, $15

I like that this is a brick and mortar store so you can try on the items to make sure it fits correctly and to your liking.  If you sign up with them they will also send you 10% off coupons in the mail for your next purchase.

For those that know me, I'm from the old school and accept that sometimes you've got to give to get, so I'm certainly not one to make a big stink about service at Korean restaurants.  However... with my last and only experience with Moo Dae Po II, I was surprised to find myself genuinely upset.  Am I making a big deal out of nothing?  Possibly, but I cannot see how any right-minded individual would have been any less frustrated as I was with this dining experience.  

A lot of it has already been outlined by Erica C and Liz O, as we all attended the same dinner.  Fortunately for the two end tables, they were able to get slightly better service since they were in the line of sight compared to our middle table, which they unmistakably ignored.  I am not kidding when I say we pressed that button quicker than a Jeopardy contestant as soon as we notice our number disappear off the board, and even when all five of us raised our hands (partly to make a joke of it) and waved them madly in the air, did they even consider walking over to our table.

To cut to the chase, these are just a few of the issues I had with them:
-  Every time I tried to order something, I'd be cut short and they'd disappear.  Not only does the server have to go back and forth, it's annoying as hell to have to order items one at a time. *Facepalm*
-  Oh yeah, and take our orders but never even bring the shit out (aka the egg situation). *Roll eyes*
-  Don't tell me you have a beer, then 30 mins later say you're out when we ask why it hasn't arrived yet.  Then find out from another waiter that they do have it, but then leaves to make sure, and of course they don't, so it takes them another 20 mins to bring out. *Can we say hella-frucking-strated?*
-  Request to have our grill exchanged, and sit there with the hot open fire for another 15 mins until flagging someone to ask where in hell our grill was so we could finish cooking our damn meat? *Do I have to choke a bitch?*
-  Have the balls to tell me the reason the waiters were so slow in bringing out the meat, banchan, etc was because WE were too slow with ordering. *OK hold my earrings, this shit is about to get ugly*

I'll give them a few props for having a spacious dining area, effective ventilation system, and decent quality of meat.  However, the night club style's random dimming of lights, banging of drums, loud obscenity filled rap, and spontaneous happy birthday music did not make for a pleasant KBBQ experience.  I knew this place was trife the minute I saw a bible verse (something about being kind and generous) on the back of a stall door, and hearing Lil' Wayne sing "Baby you're the best, you're the fucking best," while experiencing some of the worst service in my life.  Ha!  C'mon, seriously??

Oh yeah, and we NEVER received any kal gook soo.  I cannot be sure, but I certainly felt that jipping us with the noodles was deliberate.

*Note:  I did bring up these issues with the female manager and she seemed sincere with her apologies.  She even offered to "make up for it" the next time we visit, but I let her know that a repeat visit didn't seem likely.  At least for our troubles we got ONE bottle of beer for the 15+ of us (yay).  Oh, and we finally got the egg casserole, over an hour later... it was burnt :o[

I'm just a country girl that craves her country meals.  Everyone talks about their galbi jjim, which is good, but they have a decent go dung uh jo rim (mackerel casserole) too.  It's been a little while since I've been here, but I remember the fish being moist and firm.  The blocks of moo (radish) were stewed nicely and melted in my mouth.  And it was served in a iron pot with the spicy yet not overly sweet sauce still bubbling.  Also, I really enjoyed their simple, yet varied dishes of banchan.