Calling all LA foodies - pls. help!
 

Hey there -

My and my BF's families are descending upon us Thanksgiving week for our first big visit since moving to Marina Del Rey from Chicago in July. I could really use some recommendations on our dining destinations:

1. Mid-week birthday dinner destination on the Westside, preferably Santa Monica vicinity? (Considering Josie or JiRaffe right now.)

2. I'm planning on a day/casual lunch at the Getty. Would I be trying to cram too much in by heading to Malibu afterwards via Sunset Blvd. for dinner at sunset?(Considering Geoffrey's or Moonshadows.)

3. Best sushi in LA without the Urasawa pricetag?
(Too many options to list!)

Appreciate your input!

Have you considered Cafe Del Rey close to home? I really like it, the food is very innovative and fresh and I have always had good service there. If you ahven't been there, go take a look at the menu and setting. For something more intimate JiRaffe is very good food, but be careful when you go. I've been there about a dozen times over several years. Try to get reservations early in the evening or on a night when they are not to busy as service can be affected when it is really busy- it's a small kitchen.

Great thanks! Anyone else? Anyone?

I adore Asakuma on the NW corner of Barrington and Wilshire in WLA.

I'm not familiar with Urasawa, but I know that Asakuma is cheaper than Matsuhisu. The prices are average, except for the soft shell crab roll which was around 18 bucks as I recall, but worth EVERY cent! The spicy tuna roll is to DIE for! Their salmon skin (salad or roll) is perfection. I never liked sushi until someone brought me here. Now I love it and Asakuma is still my favorite place to have sushi.

I've eaten only once at Jiraffe (live down south in OC), but it was wonderful, a memorable meal, and hope to go there again. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend it!

Try the Warehouse in Marina Del Rey. Eat on the patio. Lovely, great food. Also the Charthouse in Malibu on the beach