Stafan's at LA Farm Nabs the Deuce

After a positive pre-report last month, it was only a matter of time before SIV revisited Stefan's at LA Farm for a full-on review. Today is that day, and after oohing and aahing over a few dishes, SIV presents the Top Chef alum with two stars and wonders if he's playing it too safe.

"He's out to cook food that's squarely within most people's comfort zones...He's going for smart, contemporary cooking that everyone can relate to and flirting only occasionally with the cutting edge. It makes for pleasant but not necessarily exciting dining at this latest reincarnation of L.A. Farm."

Nonetheless, food is generally well executed, service is "crisp and professional," but the wine list "needs a makeover." Stefan serves strictly American wines, but Sher complains that the list "reads as if a distributor had been asked to put [it] together and just assembled a list of unloved and leftover bottles." Ouch. So, is Stefan playing it smart or safe? Feel free to share thoughts in the comments. [LAT]

THE ELSEWHERE: The Find discovers Lebanese-Armenian fare at Mantee, LAmag hits up the new Hotel Erwin for a meal at Hash, OCW checks out Fora Restaurant in Long Beach, Refined Palate lunches at Spago, Alli411 drops by newcomer Thyme Cafe & Market, ShopEatSleep brunches at Tavern, and e*star LA dines at Boneyard Bistro.

Stefan's at LA Farm

3000 W. Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica, CA, 90404