THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED XIV Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED XIV Restaurant Review:

THE MENU IS UNDERGOING MAJOR CHANGES, SO UNTIL IT SETTLES DOWN WE WILL RETAIN OUR RATING. XIV derives its name from being the fourteenth restaurant of celebrated San Francisco chef Michael Mina. The Roman numeral moniker is also a nod to the Sun King (Louis XIV), whose opulent style helped inspire world-famous French designer Philippe Starck as he conceived the space. Upon entering the white cube-like structure, diners encounter an ultra-modern steel bar that faces a classic library done in a style reminiscent of Versailles. It's fashioned from wood paneling and adorned with old books, five fireplaces and contemporary paintings. Keep walking to discover the kitchen, visible though windows encased in more steel. Here, chef Johnny Church and his staff plate up dishes while '80s music like Madonna is played over the sound system. The menu features classic Michael Mina dishes like the savory parfait appetizer capped off with caviar, and the Maine lobster pot pie, as well as other inventive and elegant preparations. Start with a bright salad composed of heirloom tomato, peach and burrata cheese; the "baked potato" pierogi that cleverly pairs pork belly with chicharrón or the sea scallops served on a bed of tempura crumble, almonds and cauliflower in a passion fruit jus. Move on to Jidori chicken accompanied by corn spaetzle, baby corn and leeks or lamb chops flavored with ras el hanout, tahini, tomato compote and green olives. Mina Group corporate pastry chef Lincoln Carson has conceived the creative and modern desserts, such as the "candy bar" that deconstructs the flavors of tiramisu. The wine list carries around 200 selections from small European and California producers; you can enjoy all bottles for half price on Tuesdays. Specialty cocktails might include concoctions like the Concord Crush made with tarragon, Hennessy and lemon. The sexy patio, isolated from busy Sunset Boulevard by a green wall of ivy, is accessible through its own entrance and features a clubby atmosphere that's popular with celebrities.