Bashan Restaurant

The Scene
In the rustic yet stylish Verdugo foothills, this family-owned bistro is an intimate modern gem. Dark wood, polished concrete, Ikea-esque hanging lamps and artful touches of driftwood and mirrors set the scene. Laidback locals revel in having haute cuisine at their doorstep, but Bashan's cooking also makes it a destination spot for far-flung foodies.

The Food
Spring-boarding off the kitchens of Michael's and Providence, Chef Nadav Bashan deftly dishes up New American cuisine with confidence and imagination. He just might have the culinary equivalent of perfect pitch, and his seasonal dishes often provocatively contrast elements that bring diners to bright, unexpected landscapes of flavor. A sensuous burrata and bresaola salad mingles fresh and savory silken tones. Mouth-melting, unctuous braised pork belly flirts with robust cranberry beans and mussels. Seared barramundi's delicious crispy skin reveals succulent, tender meat--the Jerusalem artichoke sauteed in chorizo, cipollini and shrimp is a palate-popping sidekick.

Hits: The menu is dynamic yet unpretentious; the great service, warm ambiance and excellent value help make it a destination.

Misses: Montrose is a painful hike for Westsiders, but after traffic it's a surprisingly quick shot up the 2 freeway from Downtown, Silver Lake and other Eastside spots.