It seems silly to attempt to recount Chef David Meyer’s culinary triumphs when his website does a good enough job of that, so I won’t. He’s a big time chef, how about that?

Honestly, what drew me to Hinoki and the Bird were two things: the silly name and it’s close proximity to my workplace.

The futuristically bland neighborhood of Century City.

We don’t get many new restaurants in our hood and I’m sure all the agents at CAA are sick of trying to wow their clients, yet again, at Tom Colicchio’s Craft.

Outside of the Century City Mall, it’s all we’ve got as far as fine dining.

The peeps and H and the B are really smart having a large outdoor courtyard for seating as I must assume they have their biggest crowds during the lunch hour.

Today, I was joined by Chesty Morgan and Seigfried (and Elisabeth Shue, unbenownst to her) and we attempted to order pretty much everything on the menu.

Elisabeth could have easily joined us (she sat at the large table in front of us, joined by 20 of her dearest yoga/meditation loving, unemployed friends) there was so much food.

I appreciated that the portion sizes of the smaller plates were adequate and we were not wanting for more.

The highlights were the Pumpkin Toast, the curry Monkfish noodles and the Cold Ramen Salad. The Skirt Steak and Crispy Chicken were also quite tasty.

The beet salad was probably the only thing that wasn’t very remarkable. Don’t bother with that one.

Lunch cost us about $60 a person (we didn’t drink), so it’s probably best to save this for a special occasion place.

Like when Elisabeth Shue invites you to join her after Pilates. Your best bet is to gladly accept, you won’t be sorry. Pretend to take out your wallet when the bill comes but she’s a good egg and I’m sure she’ll pay.

10 Century Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90067
(310) 552-1200
HinokiandTheBird.com