So before Shrek 3 last night at the Arclight, Corinne and I decided to try out Charcoal. I’ve been wanting to try it, but every time I’ve driven by it’s looked really crowded, and I’d rather not try a new place when it’s crowded. The décor is mountain cabin meets Hollywood trendy. Makes sense, since it’s owned by Restaurateurs Adolfo Suaya and Michael Sutton from the Lodge Steakhouse in Beverly Hills .
We were seated immediately in the half full restaurant and were approached promptly by a waiter. I was a little disappointed with the wine by the glass selection. The first couple of wines we asked for they were out of, so we settled with our 3rd choices, which ended up being fine. The food was good, I got the filet. There wasn’t an ounce of fat on this flavorful steak. The mesquite grilling really gives it a great flavor. The mashed potatoes were some of the best I’ve had in a while too. She got the toothfish Sea bass covered with asparagus and served with shrimp. The Sea bass was very good as well.
I won’t waste your time reviewing Shrek, you’re either a fan of it, or not… so on to the best part of the night. We decided to go to the Redwood Bar after the movie. I had heard about this “pirate†bar recently and wanted to check it out myself. The bar itself is very cool. The walls are adorned with pirate-esque relics, sail masts hang over the bar, netting on the wall. etc. I sort of felt like I was in Goonies, looking for buried treasure.
The only problem with the place seemed to be the drinks. Our Jack and Coke(s) were served in a pretty small glass, with mostly coke and ice and cost $8 each! I would recommend you stick with shots and beers, especially if you’re looking to get close with your friend Jack.
To my surprise I saw blues women Mickey Champion sitting at the bar. I looked around and saw her band mates drinking too. I just assumed that they were playing at Little Pedro’s and had stopped by the bar for a few drinks. But to my amazement, they were actually between sets, and were performing at the Redwood! Maybe they don’t perform at Pedro’s anymore?
Regardless, she was amazing and full of life as usual.
Charcoal
6360 Sunset Blvd
Hollywood, CA
Redwood Bar and Grill
316 W Second St
Los Angeles, CA
June 18th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
I wish I was going to the arclight. I saw a new Father’s Offiice is going to open in Culver City.