Within a Robert A.M. Stern-designed high-rise in Century City, Hinoki & the Bird is a high-concept "Silk Road" inspired eatery that brings a hefty dose of foodie whimsy to LA dining. A formal motor court, evocative of LA's historic supper clubs like Perino's and Chasen's, features a single door entrance opening to a glamorous staircase that descends into the modern, architectural dining room with mixology bar. Concrete and wide-plank wooden floors sit amongst walls stacked in Japanese timber with an eclectic mix of mid-century and industrial décor that faces a wall of glass that opens to an equally large terrace with retractable ceiling.
The Food
Part of David Meyers Restaurant Group, Hinoki & the Bird is narrated by Tokyo-native and executive chef Kuniko Yagi and a staff of foodie-believers that deliver one of the best dining experience currently found in LA. Meals begin with signature drinks like the Pimms-inspired Bird Cup or Tangerine Caipirissima. Raw bar specialties like beef tartare and lemongrass tuna salad lead to ‘fun bite’ appetizers like perfectly crispy Japanese-style fried chicken, chili crab toasts and Yagi’s delicious take on the lobster roll. Mains include a standout Sambal skate wing, apple-marinated short rib and black cod topped with a smoldering splice of Hinoki wood.
Last Word
David Meyers Restaurant Group brings Kuniko Yagi to cutting edge Century City dining room that wows in flavor and style. Images: DMRG