The Quinoa, with roasted mushrooms, pecan, kale, and a caramelized shallot vinaigrette was one of the best dishes using quinoa which I have ever tasted. The textures and flavors each complimented each other and gave the dish a hearty yet fresh taste.
The Red Snapper Nicoise was a delightful variation on the usual tuna. The perfectly cooked snapper was served with barely blanched green beans, olives, tomatoes, and the most perfectly done boiled eggs I've ever eaten in a restaurant, I could eat this dish several times a week. The bottarga dressing lightly coated the greens and gave a well balanced acidity to the fish.
The only reason I would not come here for lunch more often is the location in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. If you work in the area, this spot is a treasure, but if you don't live or work in the area, coming here can be a bit of a challenge with traffic and parking, so I would suggest you make a reservation for a week-end and enjoy the pleasures of having a lazy day at Industriel.
Note: Underground parking at the One Wilshire building, about a block away, is only $5 on week-ends (cash only).
Zinc in the Shade Hotel has a prime location only a few blocks to the beach and pier in the heart of Manhattan Beach. It's a rare treat to find great food in a great location, but add to that combination some very affordable prices, and you've got a formula for success. Zinc seems to have mastered the formula. With a $16 lunch menu that includes an appetizer, entree and dessert every weekday between 11-4pm, this is a great place to enjoy a lunch at the beach without breaking your piggy bank.
I started with a tomato bisque drizzled with basil oil. It was a good rendition, not as flavorful as Bottega Louie's or Bouchon's, but a solid starter.
For my main course I chose the Steak Frites, hanger steak with brown butter, red wine demi-glace, and shallots, served with hand cut fries. I ordered it rare and it came as ordered, but because it did, the quality of the meat showed and it was not pretty. The sinewy piece was so tough in places that I could only eat about two thirds of the steak. The sauce was good and the crispy shallots were wonderful accompaniments. I would definitely choose another main course, like the King Salmon burger (which was sold out).
The fries needed salt, but unfortunately adding them after they arrived was a little too late since it would not stick after they had cooled.
I chose a berry sorbet for my dessert, a refreshing finish, not too sweet or tart.
Would I go back? Sure, but I would pick another main course and try the chocolate pot de creme for dessert next time. With a location like this, I want to find food good enough to go back for next time.
Note: You can park under the Mettox shops in covered city metered parking, so bring plenty of change or buy a cash key.
Urban Farm Cuisine sounds very interesting and unique.Both the dishes the Quinoa and the Red Snapper Nicoise sound great.I think you had fun at the Industriel.
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