We recently returned to the Beverly Hills location for my husband’s birthday dinner. As I had previously reviewed this restaurant before, I hadn’t anticipated writing another review but the exemplary service, the sensational quality of the food and the generosity of the manager warranted an update.
The morning before our reservation, I emailed the manager, Michael Hudson, who we had met on our last visit for our anniversary. I mentioned that it was my husband’s birthday and we were looking forward to seeing him again.
I didn’t hear back but sensed he had received my email as I did not get the usual confirmation phone call from Phillip. We arrived a few minutes late but didn’t wait long to be seated. We sat against the wall in the front section of the second floor close to the singers and pianist. It was the first time we sat in that specific section and it dawned on us that we could hear the music much better in that area so we’re making a mental note for future visits.
Our server, Summer, was likely the best server we have ever had at the restaurant. She was attentive but not overbearing. Her timing on refreshing our beverages was impeccable.
We started with the spinach salad which was split in half. It was perfectly dressed, not oversaturated with dressing.
The kitchen was slightly heavy-handed with the blue cheese but the bacon and crumbled hard-boiled egg was served in more equal proportion.
Next to arrive was the creamy, decadent lobster bisque which had chunks of lobster with each delectable sip.
The bisque always has the pleasure reflex, where one’s eyes roll to the back of the head on first taste. It just hits all the right notes, and no visit to Mastro’s is complete without this bowl of amazing goodness.
After the empty plates from starters were whisked away, our filets arrived. They were cooked perfectly, a bit charred on the outside with a warm, pink center. The filet was so tender I’m not sure a steak knife was even necessary.
The smell of sizzling, buttery beef wafting through the air was curtailed by the savory side dishes’ arrival.
The green beans were cooked just right, crispy but not overly oily.
The Gorgonzola mac n cheese had a slightly smoky top layer which enveloped a steamy, gooey, dense center.
The lobster mashed potatoes had very generous chunks of lobster intermixed with the luxuriously creamy potatoes.
Last to arrive was the trio of birthday cakes, courtesy of the restaurant. We were served with the mind numbingly decadent butter cake as well as a slice of the super rich chocolate cake.
New to the mix was the key lime pie which was a bit of a palate cleanser from the richness of the entire meal.
All in all, it was an amazing experience. The combination of dishes with the attentive staff made it the best night we have had at Mastro’s Beverly Hills. Thank you to Michael, Summer, your kitchen and staff for an impeccable evening.
Mastro’s Steakhouse
246 N. Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
https://www.mastrosrestaurants.com/Locations/CA/Beverly-Hills-Steakhouse/
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I have driven by Atmosphere and its predecessor many times in the past several years. It seemed more of a breakfast or brunch place but I was surprised that it had a nice dinner offering. In the spirit of trying out new restaurants every week, I made a reservation for this evening and off we went.
When we arrived, we were able to find street parking on Venice half a block away. We entered the restaurant and were immediately greeted by our would-be server, Dennis. The main dining room was a third of the way full so plenty of seats were available. We chose a nice half booth, half table halfway into the dining room.
We started off with a nice glass of Chardonnay and a draft beer.
Our appetizers included a margarita flatbread which was crispy and delicious, a light and piping hot macaroni and cheese and a large delicious helping of a Brussels sprouts salad, sans raisins with crispy bacon on the side. The trio made for a nice welcoming treat to the bohemian vibe of the restaurant.
Our entrees arrived shortly after our appetizers were finished. I ordered the steak and Parmesan fries with mushroom sauce. The steak was quite juicy and tender and the mushroom sauce added a layer of complexity. Sadly, the Parmesan fries were flavorless and were the weakest part of my dinner experience.
My husband ordered a burger and his order came with the garlic fries which were far superior to my order of wimpy Parmesan fries. He seemed to enjoy his burger though admittedly, I didn’t partake so I cannot truthfully vouch for it. However, his plate was practically licked clean so there’s that.
Overall, for the price, ambiance, casual vibe and great service, Atmosphere is a solid choice in a neighborhood which has fancier and budget busting eats like The Mar Vista and Little Fatty which are both fine restaurants but take serious commitment to deal with the large and loud crowds and the much fatter dinner check.
We were quite happy with our unpretentious and delicious dining option and would recommend to all who are looking for a quiet, solid dining experience on the Westside.
Atmosphere Mar Vista
12034 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90066
https://www.atmospheremarvista.com
Grace Gambin
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