THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Ingredients

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Ingredients Restaurant Review:

Michael Ruiz, the former chef-owner of Glendale’s much-lamented Bistro Verdu, has resurfaced a couple blocks north on Verdugo Avenue, just south of downtown Montrose. Ingredients is a gourmet shop carrying spices, olive oils, sea salts and a very respectable selection of artisanal cheeses. And every Friday and Saturday evening, a menu of contemporary tapas is offered, reflecting French, Italian, Spanish and North African influences. Duck confit arrives with almonds, shaved pears and membrillo, while merguez sausage is served with saffron-onion compote, preserved lemon and harissa. Wild salmon, prepared sous-vide, is enhanced with a mustard emulsion, blood orange marmalade and edamame---a wonderfully light yet satisfying treatment. And there’s always a fine assortment of charcuterie and cheeses to be shared. Our one complaint is that the limited space only accommodates about 18 communal seats---while it creates a fun, festive experience, we hope a proper dining room is in this talented chef’s future. Special tasting dinners are offered periodically during the week.