Tuesday, November 27, 2018

CICADA DINNER CLUB



If you are ever in the Los Angeles area, this is a great place to gather with a group of friends for food, fun and music! 


Arrival
If able I’ve heard a limo is the way to go – we drove and it was a breeze. As we approached the venue a valet ($10) quickly assisted us with parking the car – no hassles and no long walk. Check in was relatively simple, just be sure to have your ticket or confirmation number at hand. Our group reserved a table which was situated right near the dance floor.

Ambiance
What a fun experience! It was like walking in on a scene from “The Great Gatsby.”  There are big gold doors entry leading into vintage room with a big band stage, dance floor, tables and old style bar. It is a two level venue - huge stairs lead upstairs which has great view of the band and the dancing plus it is a perfect place for picture taking.  
The guests get into the spirit of vintage by dressing in their finest. Even more fun, many chose to dress in roaring 20’s style. 
The music changes with each show. We saw “Tino Productions” which was a variety of music from, Sinatra, Elvis and even a played a song or two from today’s favorites.  The guest the night we were attended had some ball room dance experience – they really got into the moves.

Food and Drink
The bar offers a multitude of house drinks with average price ranging $12-$17. I decided on my favorite, a dirty martini - It came without the dirty! The bar was not able to add the desired olive juice to the drink.
The menu is a set menu for one price ($59) and it offers three course meal which includes: appetizer, entrée and dessert. Each event offers a selection of chef’s specialties which is what I chose for the evening.
My appetizer, Tiger Shrimp was grilled and had a deep dark smoky taste. It was served with an arugula and melon salad with light vinaigrette dressing – a perfect start.
For the entrée I chose the Branzino (sea bass) fish.  It was a delicate filet served with purple mashed potatoes and steam spinach. I found the entrée simple, light and delightful in taste.
I finished my meal with one of my Italian favorites, tiramisu. It was a nicely plated and the flavor was as expected but I found the cake a soaked up too much coffee making it much to wet.  My husband ordered the fresh fruit so I also enjoyed the fresh berries with mint.

Overall Experience
I would say the evening was expensive, the food and drink wasn’t the best I’ve had yet the ambiance, the music and the friends I went with made the overall experience a 4 star rating out of five. It is definitely a place I would recommend for a special occasion.


No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.

PAT'S PUMPKIN EMPANADAS (TURNOVERS)

Yields 15 Had a blast today getting together with my cousins so that Pat could share her pumpkin empanada recipe with us. Now I am not a hug...