MELROSE BAR AND GRILL PERFECTS THE WEST HOLLYWOOD VIBE  

By Michael Hepworth

I had heard about this place from the very pro-active West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, and when I read a positive review in the Michelin 2009 guide I knew I had to check it out. I selected a Monday night to go and arrived close to 8 PM and the place was about 80% full. Most of the customers appeared to be locals who relish the casual but appealing ambience of the place that has a location to dream about.  The restaurant can loosely be described as an American pub/bistro that features a small but compact size menu, but also includes chalkboard specials every night. It is as if Gordon Ramsey had come in to design the menu and told the chef to keep it tight. Husband and wife team of Julie and Chris Bennett run the restaurant and kitchen respectively, with both being extremely hands on and running a tight ship.

The service is very keen and high octane.  There is also a fair sprinkling of celebrity sightings, thanks to the location. Gwyneth Paltrow to name just one has fallen in love with the Duck Burger ($16), and by all accounts can almost be counted on as a regular. The Vegan Burger and the Oven Roasted Turkey Burger are also solid sellers, and there is an impressive selection of salads to choose from.  Best starter however is the Spicy Ahi Tuna Tartar ($15) with avocado, crispy onions. crispy rice cake in a balsamic soy glaze. I was less impressed however with the Cheddar Bratwurst ($10) served with a warm pretzel and creole mustard that is served as a snack item. The Prosciutto & Pea Pasta ($17) like a lot of the dishes here is good for sharing, and is served with fresh English peas with orecchietten pasta in a very light cream sauce.

They are also known for their thin crust pizza, and although there are only four on the menu, they all are very light retaining the pizza taste, and you don’t feel overly stuffed.  Probably best option is to go for the Sausage, Roasted Pepper and Garlic version.  The Melrose Bar & Grill is an interesting restaurant without being over trendy in a very trendy part of town, and the relaxed and friendly vibe is perfect for the Los Angeles crowd that frequents it.

Fact Sheet

Address:           8826 Melrose Ave , West Hollywood , CA

Phone:              310-278-3684

Valet Parking and some street parking

Monday-Friday (lunch and dinner)

Saturday (dinner only)

Average price dinner for 2 w/drinks $90

Happy Hour:    Mon-Fri 4-7 pm.

Website:           www.melrosebarandgrill.com