World > U.S. > California > The Los Angeles Area

Blue on Blue

<p>The Avalon's poolside patio restaurant has had its share of chef turnover, but new chef Scott Garrett has created a menu reliable enough to go the distance. Lunchtime fare is on the safe side (burgers with garlic), but at night, Garrett gets a little more creative: a starter of seared foie gras with pineapple upside-down cake might be followed with veal loin with gnocchi, dates, and caramelized cauliflower fricassee. If you're lucky enough to be spending the night at the historic hotel, order a “blue on bleu” martini, made with Bombay Sapphire, dry vermouth, and bleu-cheese-hand-stuffed olives. For that matter, order three or four.</p> <p><strong>Tip:</strong> If you're arriving for lunch without a reservation, show up early. By 1 p.m., all the choice tables on the outdoor patio are occupied and walk-ins are stuck indoors.</p>

AS FEATURED IN...

From Travel + Leisure , JUN 2004

As settings go, it's hard to beat the Mid-Century Modern poolside patio at Blue on Blue in the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills. You'll feel as if you're in a 1950's movie about L.A....MORE>>

– Leslie Brenner L.A.'s Hot Plates

From Food & Wine , MAY 2003

Chef RaShon Jones quietly sends elegant comfort food (lobster-and-pumpkin ravioli, meat loaf) to the poolside cabanas at a hotel better known for its fashion shoot­friendly midcentury decor and buzzing bar scene....MORE>>

– Kate Sekules America's 50 Best Hotel Restaurants 2003

Last updated June 2004