THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Luau

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Luau Restaurant Review:

This contemporary version of LA’s old iconic Luau, frequented by the Rat Pack of the '50s and '60s, is reincarnated by rock ‘n’ roll promoter Andrew Hewitt (he also owns Il Sole). No matter how many agents, producers and Hollywood elite gather under the glowing chandelier made of luminous pufferfish, ironically blessed by carved tikis, Easter Island heads and Papua New Guinea masks, this spot is quirkily romantic and elegantly fun. Vintage scenesters party down on the early side, morphing into a beautiful crowd of young hipsters later on. And the soundtrack is more Aerosmith than Don Ho. Ambrosiac handcrafted tiki drinks are served up in real coconuts and pineapples, and the deadly mai tais are so authentic you can smell Waikiki. Chef Mako Tanaka (of Mako) presents a Polynesian menu updated with modern pan-Asian touches. The seductive pupu platter features semi-sweet Wagyu meatballs, Kurobuta pulled-pork spring rolls, tamarind-glazed ribs and crunchy firecracker prawns. For mains, the banana leaf-wrapped halibut reveals delicately steamed fish redolent of fresh ginger and coconut; as a counterpoint, the rack of lamb delivers rich, tender portions that wake up the palate unexpectedly with peanuty satay and lychees. Unfortunately, the Szechuan peppercorn New York steak, though nicely cooked, is overwhelmed by the pepper crust and lacks Prime flavor. The desserts are less exotic with a passion fruit tart or key lime cheesecake.