LOLA'S IN WEST HOLLYWOOD, HOME OF THE APPLE MARTINI

By Michael Hepworth

Lola’s in West Hollywood is close to becoming an institution in West Hollywood if it is not one already, their big claim being that they introduced the Apple Martini to the world.  After being a local favorite hang out for 13 plus years, the friendly restaurant/bar attracts a strong regular base, and with a new hard working chef in charge the food is stepping up a notch and the bar is being raised quite significantly.  Ryan Bergunio is only 27, and the seven months or so he has been in charge has seen a consolidation of the American comfort food on the menu, plus a gradual introduction of some of his own creations. Many of the staff has been around since the beginning, and server Wayne who works the room like the pro he is, is the man to ask for if you are looking for detailed breakdown of the spruced up menu. Every table gets served Lola’s world famous potato chips for a start, and a visit to the restaurant is worth it just for that.

Top choice for an appetizer has to be the Dungeness Crab Cakes with fennel slaw and apple puree ($14). As good as any I have had lately, as was the Beef “Tataki” salad ($14) with sliced tomatoes arugula, red onions & shaved parmesan in red wine vinaigrette. The pan seared NY steak did not dominate the salad, but every piece was consumed with relish.  If you are into seafood then the Steamed “King” Salmon w/sautéed sweet garlic shrimp ($26) are creatively prepared with caramelized red potatoes, baby spinach, truffled mushrooms in a jus. The pan-seared Jumbo Scallops ($26) are another example of the quality main courses available at Lola’s, and this version is topped with caramelized crabmeat remoulade cooked inn a warm sage butter, and served with a combination risotto of wild mushroom, saffron and edamame.

A selection of pasta is highlighted by the house special Spaghetti Bolognese ($15) that can also be infused with truffle oil if needed. This was a good selection, and a good choice if you are looking for a simpler meal, that still has the chefs touch.  Desserts are also freshly cooked on the premises, and at $7 each are a bit of a steal. The warm chocolate bread pudding with vanilla ice cream and strawberry can be a bit heavy after several courses, so something lighter might be the way to go. You may want to try a plate of freshly baked cookies ($9) that take 25 minutes to prepare and should be ordered when selecting your entrée.

Fact Sheet

Address: 945 N.Fairfax, W.Hollywood 90046

Phone: 323-654-5652

Other Fees: Corkage Fee:  $15

Dinner for two w/wine:  $100

Street Parking