Dive out of messy chaotic Sunset Strip into Alice, a quieter respite perfect for a date night, privacy, and real conversation that doesn’t require shouting to be heard. Come for brunch, Happy Hour, or stay for dinner, like we did.
Alice is her name, but h.wood Group features her game – that is fresh California cuisine. The kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients and serves them in inventive ways with sharing in mind.
When you first walk in, a market and a cozy café greet like you one you might find in Europe but with trendy LA Insta-worthy vibes. You have arrived – in West Hollywood that is. Shop for artisanal wines, oysters from the raw bar, and charcuterie boards to bring to the next dinner party or picnic. Whether staying at the hotel or just grabbing a quick bite between meetings, ready-made sandwiches and chopped salads are quick and convenient for any lunch break.
Behind the marketplace, a dining room is filled with light wood and pink sconces – an almost art deco dinner vibe. Indoor and outdoor patio seating is available along with a bar. We chose to sit in a quiet plush booth near the kitchen action. Inspired by French American cuisine and seasonal ingredients, Alice’s menu showcases classic dishes with inventive twists and unique flavors. Former Bestia alum Chef Lord Maynard LLera heads up food creations while Alice’s Chef de Cuisine Chef Geter Atienza comes from Broken Spanish.
Begin your cozy interlude with an LA cocktail creation named for each section of the city. Echo Park excites me the most with a spicy blend of Casamigos tequila, butterfly pea flower, fresno chili, agave, and lime.
Start with a dozen briny plump oysters and the citrus-y yellowtail crudo. A small dent in your appetite will leave for heavier comfort food but for those who want to fill up fast – Create your own cheese or charcuterie plate categorized by cow, sheep, blue, or goat. Select a red wine to accompany a fancy grilled cheese sandwich like the Truffle or the Oaxacan.
Slide into creamy flavor-bursting Mussels prepared in a new way! The coconut lemongrass ginger mussel broth mixture is rich and so right – hard to leave a drop behind. If it wasn’t rude, I would lick my fingers. Instead of garlic fries, the mussels come with sweet potato fries, a surprising California take on a Moules Frites.
For more excitement atop the city with panoramic views, head on up to Harriet’s Rooftop, an elevated cocktail lounge.
lalascoop.com 