The Park

Parking: Street
Online Menu, Take Out Quiet, Laid Back Casual, Family Friendly, Romantic Bistro Quiet All Ages

Echo Park is gentrifying faster than you can say "skyrocketing rent," and to prove it a new American bistro has opened up on the corner of Sunset and Douglas in a space that was formerly home to a humble Mexican restaurant. Despite the presence of Montana Legend hanger steak and mini cornmeal pancakes with seared shrimp and chipotle butter on the menu, the place retains a down home charm that is both casual and unassuming. The walls are painted a pale green and gilded frames without pictures are hung above the more than a dozen wooden tables. The floor is classic black-and-white checked tile and a single old-fashioned streetlamp graces the entry hall. Getting a liquor license has been a chore so the place allows you to BYOB without any corkage fee. This makes dinner for two, including appetizers and wine of your choice a relatively cheap endeavor. (On our first trip we got out for under $50.) Since most customers tend to bring a bottle of wine they often linger, making the vibe in the dining room one of congenial, leisurely camaraderie. A special shout out has to be given to the spectacular New England clam chowder with crispy bacon garnish. Not too thick, with just the right amount of tender potatoes and chewy clams, it may be one of the best incarnations we've had outside of a seafood house.

TIPS: Take your after dinner coffee at Cafe Mariposa just down the street.

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