The Water Grill in downtown LA recently debuted its new look, updated menu and cocktail program. Most notably, the bar area that once felt enclosed is more open and the focal point of the restaurant. Now expanded it includes an oak-topped bar that seats 24 people, who can casually dine, grab a beer–10 on tap and 12 by the bottle–sip a crafted cocktail from their new cocktail program, including two of our favorites: The Last Word (gin, green chartreuse, lime), Teiqula Honeysuckle (tequila, honey syrup), and a daily bartender’s choice. Other new design elements include oversize booths, columns decorated with inlaid antique mirrors, a marble-top raw bar and antique fishing-rod décor on the wall.
Executive chef Damon Gordon is another addition, bringing his expertise working at the Jefferson Hotel as well as running his namesake Damon Gordon’s Quarter Kitchen at the Ivy Hotel, Ono at the Hotel Gansevoort and Mix, a joint venture between Alain Ducasse and Jeffery Chodorow.
The raw bar has seating for those who opt to indulge in the Water Grill’s signature raw seafood selection, a vast menu that starts with 10 to 12 different types of oysters daily (the Water Grill averages just over two oysters eaten per guest).
On the refreshed menu, diners find dishes such as Atlantic true cod fish and chips, Mediterranean loup de mer, a bacon cheddar cheeseburger, fritto misto and a daily selection of whole fish.
We opted to start our meal with a dozen oysters, fresh and sweet Nantucket Bay scallop crudo and expertly steamed Prince Edward Island Mussels. Ever popular menu items like the New England lobster roll (prepared either traditionally or “Connecticut-style,” is a must), Maryland crab cakes and clam chowder remain on the new menu.
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Hot Tip: While the Water Grill has an expansive wine list and expert staff to help you make the perfect selection to accompany any meal, they also do not have a corkage fee, for those who have independently selected the perfect bottle to go with their meal.
Water Grill, 544 S. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.891.0900. watergrill.com