.
.
The Rundown
The Rundown
Bookmark and Share
.   .
.
July 9, 2008Los Angeles
HeadsUp
Water Torture?
Vanity Fair writer Christopher Hitchens voluntarily underwent waterboarding to find out what the interrogation technique feels like. Video here (skip to 2:00), article here.
Paris by the Promenade
Anisette Brasserie is an instant classic
Open only a month, Anisette Brasserie may already be the most authentic, dependable brasserie on the west coast, thanks to excellent food in a relaxed setting enjoyed by an appreciative crowd.

Chef/owner Alain Girbaud's fans from Bastide followed him to this stately art deco space stocked with aged burgundy booths, a zinc bar, and high ceilings. Luckily, everyone's up for a good time, because the narrow booths nearly force interaction with those sitting next to you.

Listen for the can't-miss daily specials from the ubiquitous staff in black-and-white penguin suits. Standout appetizers include perfectly roasted scallops and a mason jar full of pate so good you’ll want to eat it with a spoon (try not to). The Beef Provencal — Kobe beef cheeks — is tender and delicious. Pick the more flavorful Entrecote (ribeye) Frites over the leaner Steak Frites, and the meaty salmon over the bland cod.

Leave the champagne-heavy cocktails to your date, and order Chimay and Kronenberg on tap, or one of several top-flight wines for less than $15 per glass.

Make reservations in advance for a table, or wrangle seats at the bar to mingle with the friendly crowd — including Chef Girbaud himself, who regularly walks the floor to greet diners.

No rush, though. Like Manhattan favorite Balthazar, this signature brasserie looks like it'll be around for a while.
.
  .
Anisette Brasserie
225 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica (310) 395-3200
anisettebrasserie.com

Price: 3 (out of 4)  Noise: 3 (out of 4)
Parking: Promenade parking garages on 2nd St.
Scene: Foodies; hungry Euro tourists; Westside cougars
Best bets: Entrecote frites; Beef Provencal; grilled salmon; fresh-baked croissants; croque monsieur
Nearby: Chloe; Robata Bar; Ma'Kai
Many meals: The menu changes throughout the day, from homemade pastries at breakfast to brasserie staples at lunch (croque monsieur, country salads) to the full dinner menu.
.  
. The Rundown is clean editorial. There is no Pay for Play. .
.