If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that my wife and I frequently dine with my cousin and her husband. When I learned that his birthday was coming up, I remembered that they celebrated their anniversary at Redbird. Because of that, I selected Redbird to celebrate his birthday.
Redbird resides in the former rectory of St. Vibian’s, an Italian cathedral. Fortunately, it survived a push for demolition, and portions of the property became an events space. Years later, restaurateur Bill Chait, chef Neal Fraser and his wife, Amy Knoll Fraser, selected this space. The name Redbird is a nod to the cardinals that took residence there.
Don’t skimp on parking when you visit Redbird. Street parking is minimal, and your date probably won’t appreciate walking any distance in stiletto heels in this section of town. If you lack reservations, they will probably seat you near the entrance. While you will get the whole foodie experience, every customer will eyeball you as they enter.
We were seated in the Courtyard, an open-air dining area under a retractable roof. Due to our early reservation, we were the first ones to arrive. Before our visit, I was concerned because they sent me an email stating, “Beginning Wednesday, June 16th, per the lifting of state orders, the tables in the Courtyard will no longer be socially distanced.”
Typically, we each order a small plate that we would like to try and an entree to share with everyone on the table. Redbird’s menu includes vegetarian, seafood starters, and a few pasta options. This method works out quite well for us because we have different preferences.
Roasted Shishito Peppers ($16) with crunchy, fried quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a mild crunchy experience. Beware, some of the shishito peppers are unexpectedly hot. I found that strange because I’ve never experienced hot shishito peppers.
Hiramasa ($22) is the name given to sashimi-grade Amberjack. It has a sweet and rich flavor due to its higher fat content. The red ponzu sauce provides the fish with a nice citrus boost as well as mild heat.
The Adam and Haart 2016 is a German semi-dry riesling. It has notes of fresh mango and enough acidity to make it an excellent wine to pair with food ranging from the Hiramasa to some of our meat selections.
Day Boat Scallops ($42), also known as Diver Scallops, are beautifully presented. They are seared and topped with micro grated thumbelina carrots between carrot top gremolata garnish surrounded by gooseberry tangerine sauce.
Cavatelli is a unique shell pasta that resembles a small hot dog bun. The Boar Sugo sauce naturally clings to this wide pasta. The sauce is hearty and resembles pork in taste. You can feel good that boar is rich in selenium.
My favorite of the evening was the Red Wattle Pork Chop ($46). The meat is nicely marbled, juicy, and full of flavor. Spaetzel, collards, and Oregon hazelnuts complemented this dish quite well. I found myself enjoying the spaetzle as much as the pork.
Redbird is a special occasion restaurant and suitable for wowing a date. The food, service, and ambiance make for a memorable experience.
Redbird, 114 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012; 213.788.1191