Ever since I heard the news that Mark Peel was opening another restaurant (just realized I don’t know if I’ve reviewed Campanile,) it immediately went on my list that I literally have on my phone in case I’m out and about and need a place to try. I’ve heard good things thus far, so when the girls suggested we have a girls’ night out I jumped at suggesting we try The Tar Pit. (Finally!) Located on N. La Brea just south of Melrose the nondescript ”supper club” has a fancy “I’m cool just being here” vibe when you walk in. I did have a small sighting of Chef Peel when I went to Campanile, but I got excited thinking he’d be here that night and I’d be able to actually meet him – nope. We were sat at a half bench, half chair table for 6 at the “front” of the restaurant so the only time I got to check out the rest of the atmosphere was when I went to the bathroom. They have oversized locks in the bathroom stalls – very cool and yes I’m a dork. Anyway – the menu is broken up to “bar menu” and “dinner menu” where both are available wherever you sit. Since we were all planning a fun night out after, we didn’t want to eat too big of a meal so I went for the Tuna Tartare (blue ginger, mustard seed, mustard oil, cilantro, scallion, plum leaf, plum wine) and the Radish, Cucumber and Spring Onion Salad (with cucumber yogurt dressing.) The tartare was good, but they were served with small slices of cucumber – which don’t get me wrong, I LOVE cucumber, but they were sliced too skinny for me. I personally like tuna tartare with a nice crostini or cracker – bring on those carbs! I was excited for the cilantro, but I felt it could’ve been more prominent. The salad was good, but a little salty for my taste. I might’ve gone in with too high of expectations, but I would definitely go back because there are a lot of other items on the menu that I’d like to try (like the crab cake!) And knowing how amazing a chef Mark Peel is, I need to give it a fair chance. They are known for their cocktails though – the interesting ingredients and innovative options make it hard to decide. You’re kind of afraid and kind of excited at the same time. I went for a (surprise, surprise) moscow mule after hearing they make their own ginger beer. It wasn’t like any other moscow mule I’ve ever had, not my favorite, but definitely fresh and delish. Our waitress was very good at suggesting a drink by just telling her what you like and don’t like.
The Tar Pit | 609 N. La Brea, West Hollywood, CA | 323.965.1300
