Bestia

Words by Daniel Djang

Address: 2121 E 7th Pl., Los Angeles, CA , 90021, United States
Tel: +1 (213) 514-5724
Style: Cocktail bar

Review

Located off a nondescript street in the Arts District, the highly anticipated Bestia officially opened in mid-December 2012. Foodies, creatives and downtown loft dwellers make the pilgrimage to the 140-seat Italian restaurant, designed with a mix of steel, exposed brick and wood that's simultaneously industrial and warm. The husband-and-wife team of Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis owns Bestia, along with restaurateur Bill Chait. Chait's frequent collaborator, Executive Beverage Director Julian Cox, heads the bar programme.

Known for his pun-filled cocktail menus, Cox keeps it basic with Bestia's six-drink list, featuring names like Refreshing, Sling and Crusta. The White Negroni is a perfect starter, made with Fords Gin, Kina L'Avion d'Or and Suze Gentiane Liqueur, finished with a grapefruit twist. For something with more heft, try the Aromatic: persimmon-infused rye, Dolin dry vermouth, Amer-Bestia, Lazzaroni Maraschino. There are hits throughout Menashe's multi-regional menu, starting with the superb housemade salumi platter and the outstanding steamed mussels with spicy 'nduja. The Margherita with San Marzano tomatoes is a classic, and the ricotta dumplings with housemade pork sausage and black truffles are a must. And trust me, you'll want more than one order of Gergis' "Coffee and Donuts" for dessert.