Sonny's Hideaway

Sonny's Hideaway Restaurant Review:

This surprising find in a residential neighborhood close to Occidental College is a good place to meet for a cocktail at the full bar, for a date in one of the banquettes, or for a group gathering under the stars on the patio in back. Begin with a drink from the solid list of classics and signatures, like a crisp Crystal Plumage (gin, rhubarb, vermouth and grapefruit oil), to set the stage. Grilled octopus with avocado purée, coffee-braised pork cheek, and falafel fries dipped in lemon-pepper aïoli are all solid starters. As for entrées, you can’t go wrong with the slow-cooked short ribs, served with bone marrow hash and braised collards. The bacon burger with pickled green tomatoes, grilled onions, jack cheese and chipotle mayo receives the same close attention to detail paid to the entrées. Mixed berry cobbler takes advantage of the season, and its pairing with buttermilk gelato makes it a fine finish to the meal. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little more creative, the chocolate-dipped peanut butter mousse with smoked banana is both pleasing and a good conversation starter.