208 Rodeo Wows Diners with Winter Menu

It’s always nice to discover a gem that has stood the test of time. Nestled near the likes of Tiffany and other posh establishments, 208 Rodeo has been serving up luscious fare since 1991.

Inside is a sprinkling of tables, designed for more a more intimate dining experience. Outside is an ambitious patio scene, perfect for people watching along the retail pearls of the area.

This is a quaint spot, with the adjacent cobblestone street reminding me of some of the places I’ve enjoyed overseas. Squint, and you can almost imagine the Eiffel Tower in the distance, or a rowing Venice bard, chiming romantic tunes. Pretend that the Vatican is just down the street, and you can assume you are in Rome.

We opted for a dinner tasting menu, although 208 Rodeo is also open for breakfast, lunch and Happy Hour as well.

Evening favorites included the Butternut Squash Bruschetta, a tasty and visual delight.

Tomato Bisque anyone? The Parmesan cream and basil made this a sweet punctuation before more ambitious fare.

I’m always a sucker for Tuna Tartar, and if it’s a kick you’re after, this spicy dish will do the trick.

I also loved the Sea Bass, braced with a delicious Swiss chard with applewood smoked bacon, and black beluga lentils. I also couldn’t resist the flash-fried Brussels Sprouts.

Pastas and meats are also available, with their bone-in 28 oz. rib eye Tomahawk Steak hitting a home run and wowing the carnivores in my party.

An ample array of cocktails, wines & beers, as well as a myriad of delectable desserts is on hand to enjoy as well. As for me, I delighted in their 2013 Russian River Chardonnay.

You don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy this cute avenue delight. If they weren’t doing several things right, they’d be long-gone with the rest of the restaurant carnage that permeates the city.

208 is here to stay.

Photo credits:

Steak and Bruschetta-Jesus Banuelos

All others-Mary McGrath

208 Rodeo

208 Rodeo Drive

Beverly Hills, CA 90210

310-275-2428

www.208rodeo.com