Cuisine:

• Mediterranean
• Eclectic

The Backyard Description:
If you're tired of crowded Westside restaurants where you can barely hear your companions over the din of other diners, then visit The Backyard on the next sunny day or warm night. In an oasis next to the W Los Angeles Westwood hotel, diners can unwind to the sound of a babbling waterfall instead of babbling neighbors, and still keep an eye on the big game on the big-screen TV. It's an ultra-casual atmosphere, flanked by a long outdoor bar (possibly frequented by smokers) on one side and a swimming pool on the other, so don't be surprised to see people in T-shirts and bathrobes. Guests sitting on couches under white umbrellas or heat lamps can enjoy specialty cocktails by the glass or pitcher and casual food, such as burgers with sweet potato fries, massive onion rings and pizza. But the influence of chef Monique King, who also helms the kitchen at NINETHIRTY within the hotel, is felt through dishes like an artistic sweet corn and leek bisque, decorated with house-made Tabasco and topped by a tasty crab fritter; tangy tequila-lime roasted barramundi; and sesame-date crusted rack of lamb with ratatouille. There's a traditional grilled beef tenderloin Diana, but the grilled Cuban marinated flat iron steak topped with a playful chimichurri seems a better fit for the surroundings. Pastry chef Kristin Ferguson, who also does double-duty inside and out, produces sophisticated desserts including via de san Leonardo (spumoni ice cream, pistachio donuts and chocolate nougat) and a vanilla bean panna cotta accompanied by firm Bing cherries and brown butter shortbread which contrasts nicely with the smooth dessert.


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