The Hollywood restaurant scene is not without a muse, in fact a contemporary mezze bar was the inspiration for the concept of SBE’s new Cleo at the Redbury hotel in Hollywood. Chef Daniel Elmaleh’s eastern and southern Mediterranean small plates include classic dips like baba ghanoush and pinchos (kebabs) of pork belly or blood sausage. Flatbreads and vegetables are prepared in a wood-burning oven. Entrees include beef cheek tagine with caramelized onions, apples and prunes and sliders with harissa aïoli and sweet pickled shallots on challah buns. The raw bar offers fresh seafood and lamb tartar. Signature cocktails include the Queen’s Dream, with Licor 43, muddled rosemary and freshly squeezed lime juice, topped with whipped cream. The Redbury, 1717 Vine St., Hollywood, 323.962.1711 $$$ Map H14
