There are not many restaurants in LA that survive the test of time, let alone improve over the ages. But Suzanne Goin's AOC is one such exception occupying a new space once home to restaurants like Orson and short-lived Il Covo opposite Cedar's Sinai. The new space for AOC imports the lux-modern style of its previous location within a large main room with stylish bar and wall of French doors that open to one of the best terraces in LA. Outside, a serine garden setting accented in fireplace and water feature puts a new shine on one of the city's best restaurant brands.
The Food
A seasoned, meticulous staff greets guests with a daily fresh menu that begins with curated wine list and light appetizers from cheese and charcuterie boards to focaccias topped with young broccoli and burrata to braised leeks and goat cheese. Wood-fired arroz negro with squid or brioche topped with prosciutto and egg are followed by young escarole or romaine salad drizzled in buttermilk dressing. Mains include wood-grilled whole fish, roasted chicken and suckling pig confit with sides like curried cauliflower and long-cooked cavolo nero.
Last Word
Beloved LA eatery by chef Suzanne Goin finds dressier, chicer location near Beverly Hills.