Here and Now

Here and Now Restaurant Review:

Sarah Meade has transformed her former elegant Westbound into this cocktail haven in the Arts District. She's partnering with Va'La Hospitality's Aaron Melendrez (Salazar), Damian Diaz and Othon Nolasco (E.R.B.). The cocktail menu is broken into five sections representing significant eras in L.A's history, featuring the likes of the "San Gabriel" (Avua Prata cachaca, Italicus, Chareau, kiwi and lime). Executive chef Geo Delgado (Gusto, Petit Ermitage Hotel) creates a chic bar menu featuring pork belly fries with Kennebec potatoes; a mushroom polenta with maitake, oyster and porcini mushrooms with a 63 degree egg and crispy Brussels sprouts; and, of course, a burger, made with a blend of short rib, chuck and brisket.