Rate-A-Restaurant, #6 in a series
Restaurant: Campanile
Location: 624 S. La Brea
Type of food: Grilled Cheese Thursdays
What we ordered: These are not your Mother's Grilled Cheese Sandwiches. I had the #12 (Roasted asparagus, poached egg and fontina with prosciutto), Mike had the #8 (Welsh rarebit, roasted cherry tomatoes and charred baby broccoli with chili oil) and the visiting Clarissa had the #10 (Braised leeks, marinated anchovy, hard cooked egg and aioli). Note: They change their menu every Thursday.
They stipulated: No reservations for parties with less than 6 people.
High point: Oh, the complex flavors of these sandwiches melting away at your mouth! And no, Mike didn't eat a rabbit. Welsh rarebit is that rare bit of good food meaning melted cheese on toast or crackers. The side arugula salad was light and simple and the french fries were very yummy.
Low point: Smoke, all over the restaurant because of the griddle and the odor slowly permeates through your clothing and hair. Also, I got my sandwich late (Mike and Clarissa were almost done with theirs) but the sight of Nancy Silverton slaving away behind the bar on their always-busy Thursday nights made me feel bad for her. The bartender made up for the late food by giving us a complimentary olive plate and refilled our wine glasses.
Overall impression: A bit of a scene but it's a treat going on Grilled Cheese Nights.
Kitsch Factor: We saw Michael "Rock On" Damian at a table on our way out.
Chance we will go back: Yes, but maybe if we can gather up 6 people to get a reservation and not have to wait so long for a table or be lucky enough to snag a place at the bar.
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