THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Fifty Seven

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Fifty Seven Restaurant Review:

JOSH DREW IS NOW THE CHEF AT FIFTY SEVEN Fifty Seven is a hybrid --- a conceptual restaurant, a bar, a music venue --- riffing off the neighborhood energy in Downtown L.A.’s Arts District, inhabiting a chic, redone space that was once the old Heinz loading dock. Designed by MAI Studio (Gjelina, Hinoki & the Bird), the multi-level industrial warehouse is airy --- the dining room hovers over the bar area’s polished concrete, brick, wood and copper --- and there’s an alley patio, too. The open kitchen faces both restaurant and street, enlivening the atmosphere with steamy culinary action, but it's also presented as a showcase, hosting a rotating roster of chefs from around the country for “residencies.” David Nayfeld (Eleven Madison Park, Joël Robuchon’s Mansion, Aqua) debuts the project highlighting his progressive American cuisine. A three-course tasting menu (in the dining room for $48) features the likes of Jerusalem artichoke with mole, tender lamb chops and a piquantly pleasing Meyer lemon pie with Parmesan and basil. The sprawling bar area offers a fine list of à la carte small plates like house-made bratwurst, oxtail pappardelle and diver scallops. There are nice seasonal craft cocktails (try the jalapeño-infused mezcal with blood orange) and a wine list leaning towards West Coast selections.