 Encounter Restaurant Restaurant Review: Encounter is perched up in the Los Angeles International Airport's Theme Building, a local landmark that opened in 1961 and is commonly described as looking like a giant flying saucer. This futuristic theme is carried on in the restaurant. The out-of-this-world experience starts in the elevator, where groovy, space age-type music sets the mood. Meanwhile, the room picks up the ever-changing colors projected onto the building's exterior at night. There's also a bar --- with percolating lava lamps --- in case you just want to pop in for a drink and take in the view, which is worth it. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out on the airplanes and Ted Tokio Tanaka's famous LAX Gateway illuminated pylons. (Contrary to popular belief, the restaurant does not revolve.) The kitchen closes at 9:30 p.m., so this is not really a dining option for travelers with late arrival or departure times. Portions are large, but the food is not so stellar. Start with the ahi tuna tartare with avocado, seaweed salad and wonton chips. Main dishes range from Peking-style duck to grilled chicken with roasted shallot and wine cream sauce to mushroom ravioli topped with asparagus and goat cheese. Desserts include carrot cake and the "Big Blitz" Snickers pie. On weekends, guests can visit the observation deck two levels above the restaurant and take in the panoramic views during the day.
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Visit the photo gallery of Encounter restaurant.
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