by Peter c. on 3 Stars Took advantage of DineLA week to try out XIV. It wasn't my first choice, but it was a restaurant I had heard good things about. I remember this location way back in the day, it was Coconut Teaser, yes I'm old. We arrived for our 6:30 reservations on time, but we were not seated until the entire party was in attendance. We had a nice table near the fireplace and also a nice view of the kitchen pass. The prix fixe menu had a standard variety of dishes and my approach was to try out the more unique dishes, sorta. Before we ordered, a nice individual basket of garlic naan bread and some type of herbed yogurt was delivered, it was really good. Started out with the Butternut Squash Bisque with Spiced Marshmellow, Salted Peanuts and Apples. My entree was the Jidori Chicken with Mac and cheese and broccoli. Last but not least, my dessert was the Bourbon Glazed Doughnuts and Banana Ice Cream. The bisque was poured at the table and was the only disappointing dish I had all night. I felt it was a bit bland and could have had more spice. My chicken dish was a nice portion and well seasoned. The chicken could have been a bit more juicy, but was still good. The mac and cheese had a very sharp cheese flavor and the little elbow macaroni were cooked al dente. When dessert arrived, the plating of the doughnuts looked beautiful. The doughnuts were a bit heavy but matched with the ice cream it was a nice ending. We also ordered the Root Beer Float with Chocolate Chip Cookies. I was told the cookies were the amazing, and I must admit they were pretty awesome chocolate chip cookies, chocolate all the way through. The service was pretty good, but I thought there could have been more descriptions given for items being served. I'm looking forward to another visit and experiencing the entire menu.
by Ken W. on The rating is based on the food only! Had a reservation but really didn't need one. Went into the restaurant around 7pm and there were only 2 other occupied tables. This made me a bit hesitant. The co-ed bathrooms are unique and definitely a nice touch. Did not stay for the nightlife since our party had been there the night before. I've heard this club is a tourist trap but as long as there are some gorgeous people, who cares? We ended up ordering almost everything on the menu. The fries were the only thing that was ok. They had home made ketchup and you could tell it was pretty good. The fries were very crispy and had some cumin on top. Not a bad addition. Nothing else was good. The kobe beef sliders were gamy. How does that even happen? The crab noodles were horrible, the shrimp tempura sushi tasted like something you buy from Safeway, EVERYTHING was bad. I even had a couple of drinks in me on an empty stomach and things tasted horrible. Go to the Carls Jr, Burger King or Subway that are a block away. Avoid eating here at all costs. Again, AVOID EATING HERE AT ALL COSTS
by Dina Derksen on Finally went to Golden Temple on Friday night for dinner. The appetizers were delicious! The crab rangoon were probably the best I've ever tasted. The meals were good but you can definitely tell that they are healthier versions of your typical msg and sodium-filled Chinese cuisine. The prices and portions were right on! I would definitely go back - especially to check out the bar next time!
