Rustic Canyon Wine Bar

This is what LA dining is all about: incredibly fresh organic produce (most of it sourced from the Santa Monica farmer’s market) impeccably prepared. I am still dreaming of the lightly fried tiny artichokes served over baby arugula. The artichoke leaves, fanned out liked flowers, were perfectly crisp, the hearts meaty with a zing of lemon and garlic. The menu, which changes monthly, might include sole meunière with chanterelles, brown butter, capers and preserved lemon; homemade pastas; or, for heartier fare, a Niman Ranch burger with fontina. Even simple sides are elevated to the sublime, like the baby broccoli brightened by shallots and local chilies.