THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Diaghilev

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Diaghilev Restaurant Review:

Maybe the reason L.A. has such a lively singles scene is because there are so few restaurants suitable for a marriage proposal. However, if one wants to pop the question, he (or she) can do no better than this sumptuous dining room. From the long-stemmed roses in silver vases to melancholy piano and balalaika music to cozy loveseat seating, everything screams romance. It is refreshingly un-L.A., from the formality of the service to the Franco-Russian cuisine that makes no attempt to be trendy. We are eternally grateful that the Wyndham Bel Age remains committed to this ambitious, rather costly venture. To start, share a selection of smoked fish and other chilled Russian appetizers, or---since this is hardly the place to pinch pennies---caviar service (several grades are offered to accommodate different budgets) paired with one of many flavored vodkas. Other appetizers include hot or cold borscht served with delicate turnovers, pan-seared foie gras, and exquisite egg shells artfully filled with creamy whipped eggs, chives and a crown of sevruga caviar. Diaghilev's super-charged version of chicken Kiev is filled with black truffle butter and morel mushrooms, finished with a port wine reduction, duck is served en croûte with morels, foie gras and truffles, and Columbia River sturgeon is enhanced with caviar and a subtle lemon emulsion. Desserts are appropriately opulent.