Los Angeles, CA 90038-3623
(323) 460-4170
Happy birthday to me (Ray)! Providence consistently ranks as one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles, Michelin-rated and Yelp! approved. With so many positive reviews and seeing head chef Michael Ciramusti on Top Chef Masters, this was definitely a dining location that was a "must try". So try we did on my first birthday on the wrong side of 30.
1. amuse bouche: gin & tonic gelee, mojito, carrot soup with curry foam - This was our second go around with "gelees". The first being with Jose Andres' "liquid olive" at The Bazaar. This was a nice way to start the meal. Light and hints of subtle acidity throughout. Whets the appetite for what's to come.
2. japanese kanpachi * crispy rice crackers, flowering coriander, soy crème fraiche - Nice contrast of velvety fish with crispy rice crackers.
3. Santa Barbara Sea Urchin Sabayon in an eggshell, brioche croutons - The highlight of the meal. Anything that gets served in an egg shell gets a plus for presentation. The uni was creamy and slightly briny, in a good way. Brioche croutons provided the perfect textural foil. Yummy!!
4. hokkaido sea scallops (japan)* chanterelles, flageolet, applewood smoked bacon, jurançon sec - Nicely seared scallops always have a crusty exterior which also brings out the flesh's natural sweetness. This dish didn't stray from that.
5. wild day-boat pacific halibut (sitka, ak) * burdock, shiso, lemon - Not the biggest fan of halibut but this version was the best we'd ever had. Not sure if it was sous vide, but hands down, the most tender piece of halibut to ever cross my palate. Almost Chilean sea bass-like in texture. Very well executed.
6. roasted tenderloin of veal * crushed king edward potatoes, spring onions, hazelnuts, spring garlic confit - Four hour tenderloin. Low temperature, cooked for a long time results in a VERY tender piece of meat. Everything on the plate served a purpose and contributed to the overall dish. The reduction was reminiscent of a balsamic glaze and paired perfectly with this protein.
7. market cheeses
One of these best birthday dinners I've ever had. A great meal with great company is a birthday well spent.