Brazilian Bossa

Some friends called me last night on their way home from the airport wanting to have dinner before going home; it was 9:30 pm when they called and I knew that by the time they got to me in West Los Angeles, most restaurants would be closed, so I suggested we try the Brazilian restaurant Bossa Nova.

Bossa Nova has been in business on Pico (near the 405 and 10 freeways) for about two years now, but they have extensively renovated and they now have a parking lot across the street and a front door. The reason I suggested we try this place was the new sign they put up saying that they are now open until 4 am seven days a week. I figured it was a good time to try them out since the great Chinese place Hop Li next door shuts it's doors at 10 pm sharp.

The restaurant was fairly full at 10:30 pm, but it was easy to get a table wherever we wanted; a few diners opted for the outdoor patio on this warm night, but we chose to stay indoors with a frosted glass view of the bamboo plants. Service was friendly, but quite slow; we waited a good half hour to get our bread and another 15 minutes more to get our food. Once the food arrived we were happy with the flavors, but I would not order a steak here without specifying very clearly if you want your meat done less than medium well. All that being said, their seabass was fantastic, along with the mushroom risotto and the sauteed spinach. The pork chops were tasty, and the side dishes were well executed. If you choose your entrees wisely you will be rewarded here.

No matter the (few) shortcomings, Bossa Nova is a great addition to late night dining in the area; they offer delivery to the neighborhood, and having a Brazilian choice for late night is Bossa in my book.