What You're Eating: The Best Truffle Dishes in Los Angeles
Eateries throughout Los Angeles are known for taking the truffle food trend to a whole new level these days. With master chefs at the helm ready show off small plates, entrees, sides and even cocktails unlike ever before, menus around this town are bound to make culinary history. The tuber melanosporum is not only a delicacy, but the most expensive mushroom in the world, so it's no wonder LA foodies devour them up like candy.
Barton G. LA
861 N La Cienega Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90069
(310) 388-1888
www.bartongtherestaurantla.com
Just "throwing" this out there, but West Hollywood's Barton G. LA restaurant might want to seriously consider changing the name from The Strike Out Sliders to The Grand Slam Sliders. Served with two Wagyu Beef mini burgers topped with Foie Gras, Gruyere Cheese, Fried Onions and beautiful Black Truffles on a toasted brioche bun, this sophisticated take on this American classic comes complete with smoky ketchup and truffle aioli. In true Barton G. LA fashion, the delicious dish is plated alongside a baseball, baseball bat and catcher's glove. Guests are even given a special souvenir from dinner to take home: a Barton G. baseball cap of their very own. Batters up!
Bestia
2121 7th Pl
Los Angeles, CA 90021
(213) 514-5724
www.bestiala.com
When it comes to truffles, Bestia, might be Downtown Los Angeles' best kept secret. Executive Chef Ori Menashe's traditional Cavatelli alla Norcia, is still one of the most popular pasta dishes on the menu and has patrons singing it's praises with good reason. Rich in flavor, the ricotta dumplings, house made pork sausage, black truffles and Grana Padano, balances each ingredient out perfectly. Visit Bestia and see why diners cannot get enough of this updated Italian classic has guests coming back for more.
Melisse
1104 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 395-0081
www.melisse.com
Hailed as one of the best in the world, this Michelin Guide 2 Stars restaurant is well-known for its love of Australian Black Truffles and infusing the delicacy into quite a few dishes. Two highly-acclaimed, stand-out superstars at Josiah Citrin's, Melisse, include the Lobster Bolognese with fresh capellini, basil and brown butter truffle froth; and the Wild Japanese Snapper with turnips, young tatsoi and truffle-lime vinaigrette. Those interested can also request to add four grams of black truffles to any dish for an additional cost.
Cavatina
1200 Alta Loma Road
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 358-3759
www.cavatinala.com
Located in West Hollywood, this hidden gem has achieved culinary greatness with unique one-of-a-kind truffle "snacks" and vegetarian dishes across many of their menus this season. Those heading to Cavatina for a true Hollywood power lunch can dine on a delicious Simple Mixed Greens with crispy potato and black truffle vinaigrette; while the beautiful dinner crowd in search of bold flavors can begin the evening enjoying Crostini with Homemade Ricotta and Truffle Honey for starters, and end with the most delicious Cauliflower Steak imaginable served with artichokes and black truffles.
Republique
624 S La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(310) 362-6115
www.republiquela.com
The star of Walter Manske's French restaurant, Republique, is without a doubt the Spaghetti Rusttichella with Australian Black Winter Truffles. Prepared to perfection, the plate captures everything a truffle dish should be. Diners will really appreciate the bold earthy flavors of "acquerello carnaroli and tuber melansoporum," even more when paired with an elegant Burgundy wine.
Ristorante al Mare
250 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 458-4448
www.ristorantealmare.com
It is hard to come by the perfect cheese board, but the Piatto di Formaggi might actually win . Complete with truffle cheese, red wine pecorino, organic goat and sweet Gorganzola, served with fruit mustard, organic honey toasted hazelnuts and grilled bread, this selection is out of this world. Located on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, head over late-afternoon, early-evening for the most amazing backdrop ever… the Pacific Coast sunset.
Nicole Standley a.k.a. JetSet Mom, is a social influencer + lifestylist covering luxury travel, fine-dining, fashion & pop culture for The JetSet Family. Follow her latest travels and escapades on Instagram, Google+ and Twitter.
