1800 Sawtelle Blvd · West Los Angeles, CA 90025 · Neighborhood: West Los Angeles
Last night, the Backyard Bite left her comfortable West Hollywood haven and ventured across the 405 to “Little Osaka” to try what is bound to be a new favorite neighborhood burger joint. At 8:30 pm on a Monday, the eve of their official opening (February 22nd), there was not an empty seat at Plan Check Bar. Word travels fast in this foodie town, especially if you’ve got former Umami Burger Corporate Executive Chef, Ernesto Uchimura at the helm of your kitchen.
Although it is both a full bar and restaurant, don’t let owner Terry Heller catch you calling it a Gastropub (he hates the term). This Kitchen + Bar, rather, has been highly anticipated, and will no doubtedly be compared to Umami Burger or the popular Culver City burger king, Father’s Office. But unlike F.O., Plan Check will seat you and offer table service. So there.
Heller has high hopes for his dream restaurant, creating a place that is not just trendy, but one that has real staying power. Shifting gears from prep and planning to now managing his creation, the former real estate developer and surfer looks forward to his venture to becoming a neighborhood staple.
Plan Check will be a foodie hang for the neighborhood to gather, have a Steve Livigni and Pablo Moix (Harvard and Stone, La Descarga) designed cocktail and savor some darn juicy burgers. Not catering to any one specific demographic, the menu touts everything from simple meat and cheese plates, a short rib pot roast (red wine, bone marrow turnover pie, sweet n sour mirepoix), and five different specialty burgers. The Southern Fry Chicken sandwich with duck breast ham and spicy green pimento cheese is also a must. I tried the spicy Baked Crab Dip (pictured), which had the delightfully crunchy surprise of masago (capellin roe) infused. Loved it.
Infusing mild Asian influences including fried egg and pickled okra into dishes, Chef Uchimura brings along famous flavors he created while at Umami Burger, along which a few new tricks. The Plan Check Burger includes akaushi red wagyu beef, “Americanized” cheese, onions and mixed pickles on the crunchy-sweet house made crunch bun; A bun that took Uchimura over 6 months to develop. It’s pretty tasty. As with a few other burgers, it also features the most amazing “ketchup leather.” Imagine a fruit rollup made from ketchup, weird right? But it’s good. I didn’t have to add anything to the burger at all. Ha! Take that Father’s Office! Here, ketchup is your friend. Especially the house made fresh ketchup that comes with your fries (more on this in a bit).
Chef’s Favorite Burger (below), which I have dubbed The Man Burger – is piled high with cheese (two ways), bacon (two ways), ketchup leather, fried egg and hot sauce. My eating partner gave it his manly stamp of approval after finishing it by saying “now, that’s a good burger.”
If I hadn’t known that they weren’t actuallyopen yet, I would have never guessed it. The place was packed, the kitchen was bumpin’ and the bartenders never missed a beat. The french fries, I thought were tasty, though Heller informed me not to get too attached as the “fries” are in flux right now. A previous time-consuming prep method was scrapped and a newer fry is being designed to better suit the menu. Still, gotta love that house made ketchup.
In these first few months, expect a few tinkerings to the menu, especially as seasons change. Chef Uchimura loves to cook with available seasonal produce, which is always a good thing.
Here, the down to earth Uchimura shows off his buff while sporting a custom Stüssy designed Plan Check T-Shirt. Sorry Stüssy fans, if you want a shirt, you’re gonna have to fill out an application first – these are just for staff.
In case you forget you’re on Sawtelle, down a stiff Bento Box (pictured) or a Godzilla (pictured) cocktail and you’ll feel right at home. Other drinks vary from local draft beers to bottled exports. There are also, various choice red and whites and a good selection of non-alcoholic fare.
As Sawtelle is a busy foodie street, primarily known for its sushi and ramen houses, Plan Check fills a void in this area – one that only a burger joint could fill. Featuring a large outside patio, it’s great for a casual night out with friends or an evening of classy debauchery, I suspect this place will have no problems getting patrons through their doors. (Note: it’s not a sports bar; while there is a teensy TV in the bar, you’re not going to be coming here for the games… come for the food and booze).
Is it worth all the hype? Have a visit and decide for yourself…
Stand outs: Chef’s favorite burger, leather ketchup, fried chicken, and Ice Cream Bars from Milk.
Read previous Backyard Bite Plan Check posts, here.
One of the tastiest and (literally) HOTTEST organic drink companies that is getting a lot of buzz as of late is the relatively newish company, Prometheus Springs. They specialize in exclusively “spicy” elixirs that are sure to knock your socks off. Their website touts that they are the “first everyday non-alcoholic refreshment based on Capsaicin, offering a health conscious drink alternative.”
I discovered them when I was eating at a local deli, and was instantly intrigued by their Pomegranate Black Pepper Elixir. Sipping my fruit and spice infused drink “chilled for a refreshing kick,” as the bottle suggests, I was immediately blown away. I had never had anything like it before. I suddenly had the urge to call my dad to tell him about it… he LOVES spicy stuff.
My first experience with Prometheus Springs went a little something like this:
First sip: Oh. Wow. This is, different…
Second sip: I can subtly taste the fruit but…
Third sip: The back of my throat and my tongue are on fire!…
Fourth sip: And… I’m kinda loving it…
Fifth sip: Whew! Ok, Omg. I need a little break now…
30 seconds later…
Six sip: Ooh, now this would make a great cocktail!
I was hooked. And also compelled to learn more….
After reading a blurb on their website and learning about all the drinks benefits, I was like Snapple who? This is my new jam. I like that you can serve it up a variety of ways for different effects; ice cold (maximum spice), warm (soothing when you are sick), or mix to make other drinks or cook with it.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m a chronically cold blooded person. My nickname in college was The Ice Queen. As I was drinking this beverage, I could feel my body internally warming up. I also became naturally elated. A “natural high” of sorts… It was weird, neat and pretty awesome all at once.
The secret to the spice comes from a chili pepper extract called capsaicin. I was sent this blurb about it from the company…
“Capsaicin is extracted from Chili Peppers, a colorless natural antioxidant which is highly regarded as a natural medical alternative and a highly discussed source of natural medicine by many leading Physicians. Capsaicin is used to assist in the treatment of Headaches, Arthritis, Sinus relief and nerve soothers…”
The name of the company makes total sense when you learn the origins. It stems from the fearless Greek titan who, for the benefit of humanity, stole fire from the gods and gave it to mankind. Sweet, thanks Prometheus!
Now that I’ve piqued your interest, Prometheus Springs can be bought online and at various Whole Foods and independent natural foods stores nationally. They launched in 2009 with three flavors: Pomegranate Black Pepper (my favorite!), Lemon Ginger (great for colds!) and Lychee Wasabi (drinking wasabi!? Whoa!).
Then, in 2011, they added three new flavors: Mango Chili (fruity and hot), Citrus Cayenne (the spiciest yet!) and Spicy Pear (a milder burn) to add to their already spicy hot stable of drinks.
If you like a good kick to your beverage, do try them out.
Here’s a short video describing my drink experience…
340 N Canon Dr · Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · Neighborhood: Beverly Hills
90210 isn’t usually thought of as a foodie “hang out” destination. Primarily known as a tourist spot, newer Beverly Hills restaurants often go unnoticed. Diners who do frequent Beverly Hills will often times instead go to better known establishments like Bouchon, Mastros or Spagos for a luncheon or romantic dinner.
Until they gain their footing, these newer restaurants are ultimately the underdogs, trying tostay alive long enough to make a name for themselves. One such place, flying under the radar of most, is the 4-month old, Canon Drive eatery, Erbe Matte.
Korean born, world-class Chef Louis Kim, powers Erbe Matte’s kitchen which features a interesting blend of Korean inspired, Italian cuisine. This unique hybrid combines the authentic elements of both worlds in a delicious upscale setting.
Chef Kim is well-traveled. He has worked in various locations all around the world and of course, Italy. His resume includes, The Four Seasons in Singapore and Milan, Hotel Okura and Hotel Shilla in Seoul, Korea, French Laundry and Bouchon Bakery in Yountville and Hotel Okura in Amsterdam just to give you a short list of his credentials.
The interior décor is artful, sleek and sexy with an outdoor patio, desirable when the weather is friendly (basically any given LA day).
While his menu is Italian centered, it is heavy on Korean influences. Classic pasta dishes are flavored with Korean spices and “crazy herbs,” the meaning of the name Erbe Matte. Italian food isn’t really known for it’s spice factor. The extra kick that the Korean chili’s add are a unique and interesting touch to traditional dishes. The result is an explosion of taste that may leave you savoring every last bite.
Chef Kim offers a variety of basic traditional Korean dishes as well. Jap-Chae (pictured below) is a stir-fried sweet potato (clear) noodle with mixed vegetables and light soy sauce. It is a simple and light dish that makes for a great appetizer to share. Others include Frittella A Base di Pesce (Haemul Pajeon); A Korean style mixed shellfish, seafood pancake with spring onions, Bi-Bim-Bap (national dish of South Korea); steamed rice with Korean style barbeque short ribs, mixed vegetables, fried egg and a spicy Korean chili sauce, and Gal-bi-jim; which is a short rib stew with ginseng, water chestnut, carrot, daikon, pinenuts and a dash of soy sauce.
Another appetizer I enjoyed was the Insalata di Spinaci. A spinach salad with marinated sesame leaves, tofu, cucumber, bean sprouts, green onion, daikon sprouts and Korean chili vinaigrette.
I really enjoyed their pasta dishes, which I have now tried on two different occasions. The Agnolotti pasta is filled with a combination of veal, pork and a beef and is served up in delicious mushroom cream sauce. It was really good.
Other awesome plates included the Penne Al Oxtail (pictured), which is braised in a rosemary tomato sauce, and the Linguine Al Tartufo D’Alba (pictured), served up with wild mushrooms in an orgasmic white truffle cream sauce.
Even though I had ordered a lot already, I couldn’t help but also try the Filetto di Branzino in Crosta di Sale(oven baked, salt crusted sea bass). After having been baked in the oven, the server brought two plates out to our table. One plate had herbs and vegetables; the other held a strange sand castle-like mound of something that he proceeded to light on fire. That “something” I learned was the salt, neatly cocooning our sea bass.
Then our server gently began to break apart the mound and reveal our delicate white fish, which was wrapped in a sesame leaf. Peeling apart the leaf and then finally plating the fish on top of the veggies, the aroma you could imagine was lovely! The sea bass was deliciously light and tender and contrary to what I was expecting, not salty at all! The flavors were subtle yet specific. This dish did not disappoint.
Tada! My beautifully plated sea bass!
Finally, what Italian dinner is complete without a serving of decadent tiramisu?
Check out Erbe Matte in Beverly Hills for a special occasion or romantic evening and a refreshingly unique spin on Italian food.
** They are serving up a special Valentine’s Day special menu featuring a 6 course tasting menu, candlelight dinner and a live opera singer. Visit their website for more information **
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BYB Tip: A perfect wallet-friendly lunch for employees in the area; M-Th from 11:30am to 1:30 pm they offer an awesome $10 semi-buffet lunch menu, which includes fresh baked bread, 2 kinds of appetizer, 3 kinds of salad and a daily pasta dish. I wish Erbe Matte was around when I used to work in Beverly Hills! This is a crazy good lunch deal.
Erin Tillman, better known as her “Dear Abby”-like alter ego, The Dating Advice Girl, invited me to be a guest on her radio talk show for a special Valentine’s themed episode!
We discussed a few out-of-the-box ideas and I rattled off a few of my favorite restaurant picks for the big day. If you’re stumped this year, or are just looking to do something a little more adventurous, give a listen and take notes!
Erin offers personalized advice for singles trying to navigate the Los Angeles dating scene. She especially provides support through those crucial first six months of a relationship. Visit her website to learn more, hear past radio episodes or listen to her live, Sundays at 6pm PT/9pm ET on 99.3 KCLA FM. You can also follow her on twitter @datingadvicegrl
Here are some of my pics for the big V-Day or any romantic occasion. Ranging in less pricey to bring-your-sugar-daddy … If you’re looking for a romantic dinner and a movie kinda night, check out one of these awesome local restaurants for some grub.
An underground fresh dinner spot brought to you by the guy who gave you Local in Silverlake. A new favorite among neighborhood residents, your date will think you’re soooo hip for knowing about this cozy little Echo Park gem. It focuses on local farmer’s market inspired dishes, features a full bar and free parking. Check out my review on it, here.
The newest Caribbean inspired incarnation from Kogi Chef, Roy Choi. This upscale Latin-fusion should get you in the mood for a little salsa dancing. Mofongo, Yucca and the tastiest double-fried jerk chicken wings this side of the border. Get the GOAT or Diablo prawns. You’ll thank me later.
A hip, casual seafood inspired alcove from the guys who brought you the notoriously carnivorous, Animal. Not the most romantic spot, but definitely, fun. If you’re on a budget, but still want to do something relatively trendy, check it out. Local favorites include the chicken sandwich and lobster roll.
Dimly lit, sexy and romantic. This cozy Italian spot features favorable wines and strong cocktails. Grilled pork meatballs and tomato-braised octopus were table favorites when I last paid them a visit. Also worth a go for their soft and authentic brick oven pizzas. Oh, and the Bittersweet Chocolate Salted Rosemary Crostata…. Just get it. Read my review on Sotto, here.
A very new, virtually unknown, Italian restaurant with a Korean twist. Work up an appetite as you walk in hand, window-shopping on Rodeo Drive. Then get ready for amazing pasta dishes like you’ve never had before. Full bar and great wine selection.
Located 21 stories high up above downtown Los Angeles it’s definitely the best way to see the city. Come early and have a drink at the bar, then sit by the window for the best views. Sleek, modern and very hip, have some sushi and then stay for the dancing at Elevate Lounge.
Chef and owner Josie Le Balch has been serving up her Santa Monica farmer’s market inspired American-contemporary cuisine for over 10 years. Looking for a little something more casual? Check out the hip “Next Door by Josie” (which is literally, next door). It’s got a more youthful, trendy gastropub feel. Read my review on it, here.
For a hip and stylish date, check out this innovative and unexpected dining “adventure” from season 6 Top Chef winner, Michael Voltaggio. Ink is a casual place with a cozy, yet edgy decor and a small plates format. Perfect to share and sample, dishes are unique but at the same time accessible and affordable.
No better place to say those three special words: “let’s charge it.” Known for its seafood, this place is faaaaancy and a fantastic example of what fine dining should be. Classy refined, French-style cooking with elegant and beautiful dishes. No wonder it’s got, not one but two Michelin stars.
Once known for its amazing rotisserie chicken, Chic is now a popular wine bar with delicious French-inspired affordable dishes. And yes, you can still get the rotisserie chicken.
Like a mini version of the Edison downtown, Next Door Lounge is great for a few drinks, to set up the night. A sleek, speakeasy inspired place reminiscent of the 1920’s. It’s great as a precursor to the evening’s festivities or a nightcap.
Come for a drink during sunset, it sets up the mood. Gaze into each other eyes and whisper sweet nothings in her ears. This place is trendy, but also romantic. Sample a small plate or two and, and perhaps even stay for dinner. The wine list hails from Australia or New Zealand or thereabouts and is a good sampling of the three young Australian owners’ native potables.
