We booked our NYE dinner with Amour which was a prix fix and not their normal menu. We reserved the first seating, so the doors opened and everyone was just getting started when we arrived. What we first thought might be early evening jitters seemed to compound into a severe lack of front of house service as the minutes - then hours - dragged on. Our waiter didn’t offer drinks or a wine list, instead we had to ask. The cocktails came out relatively quickly and were well-made. The wine list was nothing exceptional, and we were later told they were missing most of the white wine selection. The menu was exciting if not a bit confusing in layout, but once it was explained it all made sense. Unfortunately, the plates sat in the pass far beyond ideal service for almost every course, so while the plating was beautiful and the ingredients were all there, there is really no way to give a review of the quality of the kitchen - a big minus on the service side. The lack of a wine pairing was a bit disappointing, but when we could flag down the young so-called sommelier, he provided the wine menu and we were able to choose a couple options to go with our meal (though our first few choices were sadly unavailable). What held the evening together was the bussers and food runners, often refreshing wine and expeditiously retrieving drink menus, serving plates, clearing and nudging servers to return to check the table. They were the true heroes keeping service running, even without the needed effort from the lead service staff that never materialized. What we anticipated to be a 90 to 120 min visit stretched far longer, waiting inordinately long times between courses and for the check - and with our assigned server (never got his name) absent for the majority. As an example of the slowness, a table seated a scant half-hour after us didn’t have their order taken for over 45 minutes and only received their first course as we were signing our check. 2 of the 5 members of the party decided to leave when we did and headed to a different venue to hopefully get a good meal before a party later. Seeing as how they had been in very august (celebrity) company, at least the service cemented the truly French egalitarian outlook - we were all treated much the same.
We’d love to give Amour higher marks, but I suppose if it is enough to be in a place that it pretty and rub elbows with an occasional star, then go for that experience - and forgive the kitchen for the sins of the floor. The...
Read moreLet me start by saying — the restaurant itself is charming. It really gives off a Parisian vibe, and at first glance, I thought we were in for a great experience. Unfortunately, that feeling didn’t last.
We were the very first customers that morning and were greeted warmly by a lovely woman who also happened to be our waitress. Since it was our first time there, she kindly walked us through the menu, and we placed our order. But then things took a turn.
Out of nowhere, another staff member — a woman with long blonde hair — came over and told us we were seated at the wrong table and had to be moved. Mind you, the restaurant was completely empty. Still, we agreed to move (a mistake I won’t make again).
We were relocated to a table in direct sunlight. It was hot and uncomfortable, even after they added an umbrella, which didn’t help much. Then our food arrived — and my order was completely wrong. I had asked for scrambled eggs with ham but was served sunny side up eggs with bacon.
When I brought this up to our original waitress, she apologized and went to speak with the manager. That’s when things really went downhill. The manager came over and rather than simply correcting the issue, questioned where I got the idea that ham was even on the menu. My wife showed her — it was literally printed right there. Her response? No apology — just attitude.
Then I asked for a strawberry drink which our waitress had told us was available. Turns out, they didn’t have that either. The manager returned, again dismissive and condescending, asking where we got that information — and once again, our waitress was thrown under the bus. The manager glared at her, blamed her, and actually removed her from our table.
At no point did anyone apologize for moving us, getting the order wrong, or how long it took to get our drinks. Instead, the manager sarcastically offered to “remove the bacon” from my plate — as if that was the solution. What I wanted was some accountability — for the poor communication, lack of training, and just overall bad judgment.
To top it off, the table we were originally moved from? It stayed empty the entire time.
Sadly, what started off as a cute and promising spot turned into one of the worst dining...
Read moreAmour, the new French brasserie in West Hollywood, is a must-visit spot for those craving a blend of Parisian sophistication and Los Angeles vibrancy. Located at 8715 Beverly Boulevard, it fills the void left by Dominick's departure. Founded by nightlife impresario Thomas Fuks, Amour brings a lush European Old World design to the historic West Hollywood venue. The decor is a delightful mix of vintage sconces, plush seating, and dim lighting, creating a Parisian salon-style ambiance. Whether you're looking for an energetic bar area or a more formal dining experience with candles and white tablecloths, Amour has got you covered! And if you're after a more intimate setting, private rooms and a laid-back postprandial lounge in the library are available.
Amour's menu takes a French Japanese approach, curated by executive chef Dany Chavez-Bello and chef de cuisine Hendrix Vega. The dishes are a delightful fusion of flavors. The $150 tasting menu offers a seven-course extravaganza, featuring A5 Kobe wagyu, lobster ravioli, and poulet au pot, among other delectable options. And fear not, vegans, because there's a full vegan-tasting menu that includes ratatouille, celery root carpaccio, and miso-marinated Japanese eggplant risotto. If you prefer a la carte options, you can indulge in French bistro classics like steak au poivre, sole meunière, and endive salad. Trust me, it's a culinary experience you won't want to miss!
Thibaud Duccini, previously of Caviar Kaspia, Patina, and Wally's, will be your friendly general manager at Amour. The interior design, with vintage wood sourced from France, was expertly curated by Thomas's beautiful wife, Abbie. Amour's hours are from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday.
In my opinion, Amour is the perfect spot for anyone seeking a sophisticated yet vibrant dining experience. The blend of French and Japanese flavors is mind-blowing, coupled with the elegant decor and good vibes, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and exciting. Don't miss out on this French brasserie located at 8715 Beverly Boulevard in West Hollywood, CA 90048. IT'S THE EPITOME OF PARISIAN CHIC, SOPHISTICATION AND "CITY OF ANGELS...
Read more