A Remarkable Dining Experience at RDen Restaurant
Overall Rating: 10/10
Introduction: RDen Restaurant on Hollywood Blvd is a breath of fresh air in the bustling Hollywood dining scene. With Wally as the General Manager, the same familiar face from previous ventures, my dining experience at RDen was exceptional and consistent over multiple visits.
Drinks: 10/10 The specialty cocktails at RDen are masterfully crafted to cater to a wide range of tastes. "Beautiful GaRDEN" and "Florecita" were personal favorites, striking a perfect balance of flavors. For those who enjoy stronger libations, "RDen Old Fashioned," "Flor Manhattan," and "Passion Picante" deliver a bold spirit-forward experience. The garnish on all drinks is elegantly minimal, allowing the beverages to shine. The presentation of the Old Fashioned is particularly noteworthy, providing a genuine "wow" moment.
Food: 10/10 - Perfect for Sharing The concept behind RDen revolves around shared dining experiences, and every dish lives up to this idea. Not only are the dishes delicious, but they are also Instagram-worthy.
Spicy Hummus & Lavash Chips (10/10): This dish impresses with both its presentation and flavor. The crispy Lavash chips complement the creamy hummus perfectly. Be prepared for a spicy kick.
Chicharron (9/10): A near-perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness. The pork easily separates from the skin, and the addition of pinto beans enhances the overall texture.
Short Rib (10/10): Arguably one of the best short ribs I've ever had. The meat is incredibly tender and bursting with flavor. The accompanying mashed potatoes are smooth and rich, while the broccolini complements the dish beautifully.
Salmon (10/10): Cooked to perfection and customizable to your preferred temperature. The portion size is generous, and the caper sauce adds a creamy and delicious touch.
Sides: The Real Standouts The sides at RDen are more than just accompaniments; they steal the spotlight:
Mac & Cheese (10/10): The shell-shaped pasta holds the cheese sauce beautifully, and the breadcrumb topping provides a delightful crunch. A slightly saucier mac would be ideal.
Brussels Sprouts (10/10): These brussels sprouts are a revelation. Expertly charred for added flavor, the hazelnuts provide a satisfying crunch, and the sauce ties it all together perfectly.
Sushi: 11/10 The sushi at RDen is the hidden gem of the menu, exceeding expectations:
Specialty Rolls (11/10): "The Vine," "Shrimp Paradise," "Raimu Salmon," "Rainbow Roll," and "Sunset Roll" are all simply delicious. The combinations of flavors are impeccable, and the freshness of the ingredients is evident. Soy sauce is unnecessary, as these rolls are complete on their own. The sushi chef's pride in his creations shines through. Trying at least one roll is highly recommended.
Almond Rocca (10/10): This dessert is a masterpiece that delights the senses. Rich and indulgent, the Almond Rocca captivates with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The marriage of almonds, chocolate, and toffee creates a symphony of sweetness that lingers on the palate, leaving a lasting impression.
Banana Pyramid (10/10): The Banana Pyramid is a triumph of dessert craftsmanship. Its elegant presentation mirrors its exquisite taste.
Service: 10/10 The service at RDen is exceptional. The staff is attentive without being intrusive and displays a deep understanding of their roles. Servers like Sidney, Dana, Kimmy, and the unnamed male server provided top-notch service, demonstrating both knowledge and professionalism.
Overall Impression: A Must-Visit in Hollywood
RDen Restaurant is a must-visit establishment in Hollywood, perfect for date nights and celebrations. The ambiance, with its retro music, sets the mood for a memorable evening. Combining dinner at RDen with a show at the Pantages Theatre, and the convenience of W Valet parking, guarantees an unforgettable night out. My experiences at RDen were consistently outstanding, making it a top recommendation for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at RDEN, the revitalized historic Taft Building in Hollywood, and I must say, it was an exceptional experience. Located near the renowned Pantages Theater and the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, RDEN offers a sophisticated dining experience that is truly unparalleled.
Upon entering RDEN, I was immediately captivated by the elegant ambiance and stunning decor. The restaurant boasts various spaces, each with its own unique charm. The upstairs dining room, overlooking Hollywood Blvd., provides a breathtaking view of the bustling city below. The downstairs dining area, with its exquisitely illuminated bar, creates an intimate and inviting atmosphere. And let's not forget the charming patio, perfect for enjoying a delightful meal al fresco.
The menu at RDEN is a true culinary masterpiece. Combining classic steakhouse dishes with modern global twists, the chefs at RDEN have created a truly unforgettable dining experience. Every dish is expertly crafted, showcasing the finest ingredients and flavors. But what truly sets RDEN apart is its sushi offerings. The sushi at RDEN is a work of art, with each roll thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavor.
One of the highlights of my visit to RDEN was the jazz night. The live music created a captivating atmosphere, and CJ Emmons' voice was raw, powerful, and intoxicating. It added an extra layer of sophistication to an already extraordinary dining experience.
I cannot recommend RDEN enough. Whether you're looking for a romantic date night, a celebration with friends, or simply a memorable dining experience, RDEN is the place to be. From the exceptional cocktails at the bar to the impeccable service and the outstanding food, RDEN truly exceeds all expectations. Don't miss out on this gem in the heart...
Read moreWe went to see a show at the Pantages and decided last minute to give this restaurant a try.
So glad we did!
They were able to seat us right away and assured us that we would be out for our show on time.
We were pleasantly surprised to receive free warm fresh bread with a delicious butter spread .
We chose an old fashion and manhattan. Both drinks were delicious and made well.
We opted to tryout the sushi:
Spicy tuna: generous portion, was good but I prefer my regular sushi bar spicy tuna.
The Vine Roll- 26.00 Spicy tuna mix, cucumber topped with yellowtail, jalapeno, signature spicy sauce. I really enjoyed this roll. I think the spicy sauce was a tad bit too sweet. However, the flavor and freshness deserves to rate this a solid 4.5
Yellowtail carpaccio- this was fantastic. The fish was delicious and sliced perfectly.
Nigri: kampachi 5/5 and red snapper was a 4/5. The only reason I gave it a 4/5 is due to the price. The fish was delicious and melted in mouth I just think that the pieces and presentation was lack luster for $ 12.
We will definitely next week (for the mj live musical @ the Pantages ) to try the other dishes ...
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