THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Leila's

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Leila's Restaurant Review:

The eclectic, ever-changing menu from chef Richie DeMane is so good that even people from West Hollywood are willing to make the pilgrimage over the hill to Ventura County once in a while. For Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village residents, Leila’s is their go-to spot for interesting haute cuisine paired with unusual wines. The space is small, with a communal table up front and bar stools along the narrow open kitchen. Service is relaxed and friendly. Most of the staff is apprised of the menu offerings and appropriate wine pairings. If not, owner Peyman Afshar is always willing to step in with nice suggestions. No dish stays available for very long, but any appetizer involving duck is a sure bet. Ditto for any salad containing roasted beets. Small plates may include crispy lobster tempura or a Vietnamese-sauced pork belly served with black radish and apple salad. Entrées are bountiful, with an impressive range of fowl, beast, fish and vegetables. The six-hour braised beef over pasta is a staple and worth trying at least once. And don’t miss the milk chocolate panna cotta with dried cherries and espresso coulis. Fresh tarts are baked daily, too. Next door to Leila’s is their wine bar with its own small-bites menu. But you can also order off the regular menu here---that comes in handy when the dining room is full.