With the Jewish high holidays in full swing – Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, begins at sundown – it seems as good a time as any to talk kosher. So if you're looking for somewhere to break the fast tomorrow, or are just a fan of food prepared to strict standards, we suggest you consider these kosher spots from our recently released 2009 Los Angeles/So. California Restaurants guide:
421 N. Rodeo Dr., Beverly Hills; 310-274-4269
Like a “Parisian kosher cafe”, this modestly priced Beverly Hills French delivers “delish” dairy dishes like French sandwiches, salads and crêpes in an orange-and-chrome bedecked space “in an underground parking lot”, albeit a Rodeo Drive one with a stone fountain; those who prefer to get it to-go can also pick up picnic supplies like wines, cheeses and chocolates at the attached gourmet shop; N.B. closed Saturdays.
7226 Beverly Blvd.; 323-937-7162
9618 W. Pico Blvd.; 310-860-1182
12013 Wilshire Blvd; 310-479-1800
Seafood-seekers “get their Omega-3’s on” at this order-at-the-counter kosher mini-chain pumping out “simply prepared” mesquite-grilled fish plus salads and chowders, all priced on the “affordable” side; decor is “purely utilitarian”, prompting some patrons to opt for “takeout” – just remember, they’re “closed on the Sabbath” (Friday evenings and Saturdays).
9108 W. Pico Blvd.; 310-859-0004
Leah Adler, the “sweetheart of Pico Boulevard”, “greets the patrons personally” at this kosher kitchen dishing up “delicious” meals of “blintzes and other homestyle Jewish dairy cooking” as well as specials with a Californian twist; sure, the flower-filled room is “not too hip”, but “how could you not love eating with Steven Spielberg’s mommy – she’s a riot!”
9233 W. Pico Blvd.; 310-205-8705
“Who knew kosher could be so fashionable?” ask admirers of this “sophisticated” Pico-Robertson venue serving “wonderful” glatt Cal-Italian dishes in a “stylish” setting with a view of the open kitchen; everyone appreciates the “excellent” service, though a few demur on prices they find “on the high side.”.
15622 Ventura Blvd., Encino; 818-986-5345
“Terrific” kosher food awaits at this “low-key” Encino Mediterranean cooking up couscous, kebabs and the like in a “basic storefront” setting; service is “fast” and “pleasant”, and given its moderate tabs and kid-friendly menu items, it’s a natural fit for families; N.B. closed Friday nights and Saturdays.
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