Rate-A-Restaurant #253: The Edison

Restaurant: The Edison

Location: 108 West 2nd Street (Downtown)

Type of restaurant: Bar/Speakeasy



We stipulated: Maria and I were in downtown for the Last Remaining Seats, and looking for a place to grab a quick bite and drink before the movie. Because this screening was being held at the Million Dollar Theatre, we were close to 2nd Street -- and Maria had never been to the Edison. Mission accomplished.

They stipulated: "By creating living history, Andrew Meieran's award-winning design celebrates an era of invention and imagination -- the blending of science, art and industry. The space retains many of its architectural and mechanical artifacts from its history as Downtown LA's first private power plant. The design combines styles ranging from Art Nouveau to Industrial Gothic in order to create a lavish Industrial Cathedral -- a space that needs to be experienced more than just seen."



What we ordered: It was happy hour (5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Friday), so we took advantage of the 35 cent martini, and several $5 specials: Kobe beef burger, calamari ("Electric Company squid") and "Singapore wings." All came with "Tesla fries" (sweet potato fries)



High point: The Happy Hour prices. We were able to dine for $20.

Low point: The confusion over where to sit. There were "reserved" signs on every table -- and most of those tables were empty. We finally just took a seat and promised the waitress that we'd be out by 8.

Overall impression: The Edison is a spot you want to show off to folks who still don't believe in the downtown renaissance. It's a magnificent place, and the happy hour can't be beat. Even the circa 1900 silent films they flicker on the wall lend themselves to an air of history and intrigue (well, except for the one with the blackface. Yikes. Maybe remove that one.)



Chance we'll go back:  I'd say it's a great spot to meet downtown with friends or with out-of-towners, particularly for happy hour. So yes.

Rate-A-Restaurant #252: Proof Bakery

Restaurant: Proof Bakery

Location: 3156 Glendale Blvd (Atwater Village)

Type of restaurant: Bakery/Coffee



We stipulated: Since the sad demise of Butter Tart in Glassell Park, we've been looking for another bakery close to Franklin Avenue HQ. The Village, on Los Feliz Blvd., has won out so far. But Proof Bakery is even closer -- and on our commute. We had to check it out.

They stipulated: From their blog: "As we approach our 6 month anniversary, we are happy to say that we have stuck to our mission statement; we utilize farmer's market produce, organic butter and a traditional old world approach to production to supply hand crafted French-style pastries to our neighbors. Locavores & Foodies abound on Glendale Blvd these days. Rumors are swirling throughout the neighborhood about fresh markets & new restaurants opening this year, and Atwater Village is slowly but surely gaining a solid foothold in a beautiful movement."



What we ordered: Flourless Valrhona Chocolate Cake; Banana tea cake; Cognoscenti Coffee. Total: $9.88

High point: The chocolate cake is rich and dense but not too sweet. Also, the Cognoscenti coffee.

Low point: The selection is limited -- and although there will still be plenty of amazing selections to choose from, we haven't had a chance to try all of their specialties yet.

Overall impression: Proof Bakery, Alias Books and Jacknife Records are just three of the stores giving Glendale Blvd. an upscale upgrade in Atwater Village. I worry that Proof may be a bit too upscale to stay in business on this strip -- but am glad they are there.

Chance we'll go back:  Absolutely. Can't wait to try more of their gourmet goodies, including the savory sandwiches.

Rate-A-Restaurant #251: The Beachcomber

Restaurant: Beachcomber


Crystal Cove

Location: 15 Crystal Cove (Newport Coast)

Type of restaurant: American/Seafood



We stipulated: We traveled down to Newport Beach with Evan's cousins and their parents (read about our Balboa Island visit here) and were looking for a nice spot for dinner. After some quick Internet research, The Beachcomber popped up on our radar. So we headed down to Newport Coast and Crystal Cove.





They stipulated: Reservations are limited to Open Table, and aren't taken over the phone. As a result, 70% of tables are first come, first served. That leads usually to a lengthy wait -- but the Beachcomber suggests that people walk around Crystal Cove as they wait. "12.3 acre Crystal Cove Historic District is a well-preserved example of Southern California vernacular beach architecture and terrain. The District retains the scale and ambiance of a 1930's beach resort."





What we ordered: Yellow fin ahi with snap peas ($26.95); truffle spinach macaroni and cheese ($17.95); ranch pork chop ($23.95); salmon ($25.95); kids burger ($7.99); fog cutter drink ($10)







High point: The ahi was good; the kids were happy with their burgers; the Fog Cutters were strong and the overall vibe was one of being at a semi-cheesy tiki bar/restaurant in Hawaii. The kind of vibe you want when you're on a mini-vacation, and I feel like it was worth the extra hassle.

Low point: Still, the wait was long for a table, which tried the patience of the kids. It didn't seem like they were in a rush to accommodate us. By the time we sat down, it was late -- and dark.



Overall impression: I was surprised to learn that the Beachcomber at Crystal Cove had only been around since 2006. It felt like an old Trader Vics or Don the Beachcomber's -- giving off a 1950s Tiki bar feel. I love that whole going-back-in-time vibe.

Chance we'll go back:  If we were back in Orange County, perhaps.