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Chef's Tables--do they exist anymore?

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I kind of feel like the chef's table has gone the way of fine dining. But I need one, the best one. Any kind of food. I know Providence and Patina both still have them, with direct views into the kitchen, but anywhere else? I'm looking strictly for Los Angeles (no OC, please)

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  1. Melisse in Santa Monica (while not strictly LA it isn't in The OC) and Ortolan and even Spago has one I believe.

    176 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

    Melisse Restaurant
    1104 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401

    8338 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048

    6 Replies
    1. re: Servorg

      If you don't need a direct kitchen view then you might consider Saam at Bazaar: http://www.thebazaar.com/ and which has had at least one good recommendation here.

      Saam at The Bazaar
      465 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

      1. re: Servorg

        I love Saam, and it's a great private room, and the menu, service and food are impeccable. But it's not really a chef's table the way I'm thinking. But thanks for reminders on Ortolan (although I'm surprised Eme would want people to see him in the kitchen; I've heard stories), Melisse and Spago.

        PS: I meant "greater LA" which includes all of the independent cities--Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, anything in the South Bay, up towards Pasadena.

        176 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

        1. re: diningdivala

          In Arcadia, try Inaka. http://www.inakagourmet.com/chefstabl...

          Inaka Restaurant
          61 Peninsula Ctr, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274

            1. re: J.L.

              One of the better kept secrets in the SGV.

              Certainly not a destination place, and you can get better sushi elsewhere, but for what it does at its prices it's pretty good.

      2. re: Servorg

        Melisse? A table in the kitchen or one looking in? I don't think so. They have a very serious tasting menu, but a chef's table (like Bel Air used to have?) I'd say no. (I've been there many times, and have seen the kitchen, but I don't remember a table. I think they would have let me know too.)

      3. Not that I would recommend it, but all Buca Di Beppo's have them.

        1. You might try the Vault Room at Drago in downtown.

          Drago Restaurant
          2628 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90403