Eclectic Kim Review: Hermon's

When Christine first told me about Hermon’s, I was deeply intrigued. The menu looked brilliant and the reviews looked outstanding. So, when it was time for Jem and I to meet for dinner, I got us at a table.

After finding a bit of street parking, I was enthralled when I walked through the restaurant’s doors.

Browsing the menu, I immediately settled on a martini to start the night. The HERMON’S CLASSIC (Ford’s gin w. olives & a twist) was a presentation is refined beauty.

When the LOADED POTATO FRITTERS (cream cheese cloud, bacon, chives, parm) arrived, we were both shocked. It was decadent – and we both devoured it.

The GARLIC BREAD (spelt schiacciata, garlic, butter, heaven) was – indeed – a slice of heaven. This is the best garlic bread in Los Angeles. There are no other contenders. This was incredible.

The CHOPPED CHICORIES SALAD (anchovy black garlic dressing, walnuts, parm, breadcrumbs) was a bit – confusing. Jem joked that it was a choice that he would not make again. We ended up enjoying it more toward the middle of the meal. However, I enjoyed it more the next day.

The TWO SHEET VONGOLE (clams, cream, guanciale, parm, breadcrumbs) was truly remarkable. The creamy claim sauce was brilliant.

I sipped a beautifully crafted Manhattan Cocktail (whiskey, vermouth, bitters) as Jem and I devoured the WHOLE GRILLED BRANZINO (calabrian chili roasted tomatoes, toum, lemon). This was – chef’s kiss. From the pan sauce to the fish itself – it was such a revelation of flavor and presence.

As we ended on the LEMON BAKED ALASKA (lemon custard, meringue, vanilla ice cream), we were both in a state of exquisite fullness.

Truly, Jem and I’d shared conversation over cocktails and beautifully crafted cuisine was perfect. As we said goodbye and made plans for our next dinner, I was exceptionally happy that I said hi to him when we met during our overlapping time at Douglas Elliman Real Estate in Pasadena.