 Kendall's Brasserie & Bar Restaurant Review: Another downtown outpost of Joachim Splichal's empire, Kendall's is a convenient place to dine before a performance at the Ahmanson, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion or Walt Disney Concert Hall, especially if you don't have the time or money for neighboring Patina. Besides the hours noted, the restaurant serves dinners on Mondays and lunches on weekends when there is a show scheduled at the Music Center. After the crowds have left for their performances, the scene is transformed from bustling brasserie to quiet bistro. With its semicircular zinc bar, terra cotta tile floors, generous use of wood, white linen-topped tables and oversize Toulouse-Lautrec murals, it's a warm, cozy environment for classic French dishes. Start with charcuterie, escargots, steamed mussels, a tangy calamari casserole, a delightful Alsatian tarte flambée, or go for the traditional soupe à l’oignon gratinée. Follow with braised short rib, a comforting duck confit cassoulet with pork belly and sausage, or château steak with a solidly prepared béarnaise, and finish with a cheese plate, dark chocolate mousse or an apple tart. Executive chef Jean Pierre Bosc (Mimosa, Café des Artistes) has added some menu items informed by his childhood near Lyon including bouillabaisse Marseillaise with clams, mussels, fish, shrimp, rouille and croutons, cod brandade cake and Riviera fish soup. The wine list includes interesting small producers from both France and California, as well as such exotic places as Slovenia, and a few relative bargains, too. Prices for dinner have crept up, just like theater tickets, but the afternoon menu --- think fresh salads, rotisserie chicken, a croque monsieur or burger with frites --- is a winning value. At peak theater hours, the staff can be stretched to its limits, but will always get you out on time if you’re headed to a show. Dog owners will appreciate the Fido-friendly patio.
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Kendall's Brasserie & Bar Restaurant is one of GAYOT's 2013
| Top 10 LA Dog-friendly Restaurants
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Splurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area.
