I’m still not exactly sure how to pronounce it, but as word of mouth quickly spreads about the new David Myers French brasserie Comme Ca, it wont matter what it’s called or how it’s pronounced. Because it simply is… all that. Yes there are kinks to work out as with any new place, with new employees and new menus. They completely over booked for that night. I waited 30 min past my reservation time before finally settling for a seat at the cocktail bar, which I do not regret as you’ll hear in a bit. But the overbooking is probably caused by the amount of time it is taking people to get their food. I saw one table of two leave without getting their food, and even a few people with reservations leave because the wait was too long. Rightfully so, it took nearly an hour for my main course to come out (The bartender comped my wine, nice touch.) But it was worth the wait.
Everything you’ve heard about the restaurant being loud, is true. But not so loud that you can’t hear the people in your party. The bar is one of the livelier places in the restaurant. The bartenders are friendly and entertaining. Plus they are loaded with cocktail making talent. They are drink masters, professional mixologists. Whipping up classics like Manhattans and Side Cars, or creating their own concoctions if you ask for the “dealers choice”. Tell them what kind of booze you prefer and how sweet you want it and they create something out of hand crushed block ice and fresh juices.
The menu is classic French. They were out of the Beef Marrow and Oxtail jam, so I order the Steak Tartar ($14). Hand cut and delicate but full of flavor and ever so tender. For the main course I order the New Zealand Snapper ($27). The skin is crispy and full of flavor. I am always reluctant to eat fish with the skin still on, but I couldn’t resist the flavors grilled into the fish, it was salty, but I love salt. It was served on a bed of diced carrots, artichokes and potatoes, drizzled with a light pesto sauce. It was simple, but amazing. If you like cheese, you will love the cheese bar.
I will be returning, soon hopefully. It’s a special treat, especially with the high prices and wait times. But well worth it. Just sit back, enjoy your wine and cheese and enjoy the time with your friends.
Comme Ca
8479 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 782-1104
A month after they opened – We had a 8:00 reservation for eight on a Wednesday night. By 9:30 we still had not been seated. The reservation was made 3 weeks in advance and it included out of town guests from London. We had heard great things and were looking forward to a nice dinner, but the staff clearly is overbooking and not caring. There is no place to stand while waiting and as stated the noise level is terrible.
Without any satisfaction, we walked across to Lucques and had a delightful meal. Glad the evening wasn’t a total bust.