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Feast or Famine: Laurel Hardware, CA

Since opening six months ago, Laurel Hardware has caused quite a commotion that refuses to simmer down. The Manual says believe the hype and book a table sharpish.

Located in an ex-hardware store in West Hollywood, this ‘neighbourhood eatery’ specializes in new American cuisine (anything from yellow corn to grilled flatiron steak) with a sprinkling of global references. In other words, anything goes. After some serious menu oogling, The Manual recommends the roast jidori chicken or the bone marrow if you’re feeling a little more caveman. Veggies be warned, the menu is meat-heavy but with small plates of lola rose grapefruit and arugula salad up for grabs, your taste buds will be more than satisfied. Also, the eggplant pizza is AWESOME.

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Playing to the preferences of the young and hip foodie like a boss, the space is suitably ambiguous. The knackered storefront exterior has been left virtually untouched, while the inside features quirks edgy enough to make the hearts of even the most discerning foodies quicken. Mismatched raw wooden chairs and tables- BOOM BOOM- central open kitchen surrounded by a dining counter- BOOM BOOM – and a floor-ceiling glass conservatory that leads onto a tree-dotted patio…BOOM.

Flexing serious stamina, the restaurant is open at regular intervals from dawn til dark, serving lunch and dinner daily and weekend brunch. Though the bustling atmosphere makes this place the perfect spot for Friday night dinner and cocktails or equally, for a post-booze brunch. Just bring your meat hat.

Laurel Hardware, 7984 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046 tel: (323) 656-6070

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