What You're Eating: Topping Off Summer
August is wrapping up quickly, and soon we'll be saying goodbye to summer and hello to fall. Many of the season's favorites will be replaced by those preferred during slightly cooler times. Before that moment officially comes, make a note to experience at least one of the food events happening during this last week of the month.
Lobster Extravaganza
Nick + Stef's
330 South Hope St #100
Los Angeles, CA 90071
(213) 680-0330
www.patinagroup.com
Nick + Stef's Lobster Extravaganza officially began on Aug. 21, but the good times continue through the Aug. 24. The steakhouse has several new lobster dishes on its menu, featuring crustaceans flown in from Maine on a daily basis. Chef Megan Logan's New England Lobster Rolls, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Lobster Thai Coconut Soup and Lobster Surf & Turf are rich and decadent displays of the seafood's versatility. Make a reservation for dinner before the lobster lovin' fest ends.
Kenwood Wine Dinner
CAFÉ del REY
4451 Admiralty Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
(310) 823-6395
cafedelreymarina.com
CAFÉ del REY will host a Kenwood wine dinner on Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. The five-course prix-fixe meal includes Ouva da Raviolo, Plum and Pepper Glazed Quail and Sweet Ricotta Quiche. A brand representative will be present to discuss the evening's wine selections and answer any questions from curious drinkers. Arrive by 6:15 p.m. for a complementary selection of passed hors d'oeurves. The cost is $75 per guest, and reservations are encouraged as space is limited.
30th Anniversary
Chaya Brasserie
8741 Alden Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(310) 859-8833
www.thechaya.com
The month of August marks the 30th anniversary of Chaya Brasserie. This is the last week to enjoy Chef Shigefumi Tachibe's four-course "Family Affair" prix-fixe menu offered for $60. Enjoy Hamachi Tartare with Wasabi Dashi, Sea Bream with Clam Sake Broth and Green Tea Shaved Ice, just to name a few of the dishes. The menu is offered through Monday through Saturday and only at the Beverly Hills location. If your 30th birthday pops up in August, make sure you ask for your 30 percent discount.
New Menu Offerings
Sadie Kitchen & Lounge
1638 North Las Palmas
Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 467-0200
www.sadiela.com
Executive Chef Jonathan Moulton and Mixologist Giovanni Martinez have revitalized the food and cocktail menus at Sadie. New dishes include Fried Chicken and Sweet Potato Waffle, Bourbon Glazed Ham Chops, Moroccan Spiced Octopus and Charred Thai Curry Lamb Ribs. As for cocktails, the Negroni Sour with Negroni, Oxley Gin, Campari and lemon juice, and the Kentucky Ninja with two types of whiskeys, lemon juice, lavender-infused honey and a hint of Peychaud Bitters will tantalize the taste buds. The restaurant has also added live music, DJs and entertainment to the weekly line-up, so the location is another option for your list of nightlife spots.
Cheap Cocktails
Mohawk Bend
2141 West Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 483-2337
mohawk.la
Mohawk Bend continues its two-year anniversary this month with a Greenbar Distillery cocktail deal on Aug. 28. The bar will offer five specialty cocktails featuring Greenbar spirits all night -- each for only $8.50. After a few drinks, you will probably have a hungry feeling in your pit, so save room for one of restaurants well-known dishes.
Water Pairing Menu
Ray's & Stark Bar
5905 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 857-6180
www.patinagroup.com
Water is making its way up the ladder in terms of sophistication. Ray's & Stark Bar recently announced the launch of its extensive Water Menu curated by General Manager and Water Sommelier Martin Riese as complementary selections for the eatery's menu. The specially selected waters are measured on a scale that determines sweet and salty notes, as well as smooth and complex flavors. Waters from 10 countries will be available, including a $20 bottle from Canada, and you can even try Riese's tasting menu for $12.
Roaring Raw Bar
Bouchon Bistro
235 North Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, California 90210
(310) 271-9910
bouchonbistro.com
The raw bar at Bouchon offers a light, yet satisfying option for diners who want to enjoy an evening of seafood. Tried and true offerings on the raw bar tower include a variety of oysters, lobster, uni, tuna tartare and clams surrounded by seaweed and ice. Alaskan King crab and Icelandic langoustines have been added to the selection for the summer. Order a beer or glass of champagne, and your summer meal is complete.
Chrystal Baker is a freelance food, events, culture travel contributor for CBS Los Angeles, Basil Magazine, Frugivore Magazine and Politic365. She is the co-editor of a recipe blog, The Duo Dishes, and manages her own lifestyle and travel blog, Any and Everywhere, as well as the Farm 2 Plate Culinary Club site.