Former LA Weekly Writers Reveal Second Annual ‘Rogue 99’ Restaurant List

Back at it

L.A. Taco has published its second-annual Rogue 99 list, a just-under-100-spot layout of some of the best restaurants in greater Los Angeles. The dining establishments are meant to be ”not only exceptionally good at what they do,” says co-authors Katherine Spiers and Tien Nguyen in the intro, “but they also reflect the distinct flavor of Los Angeles.” The list includes lots of favorites like Majordomo and the Mercado Olympic street food scene, but curiously omits places like Bestia, Bavel, and Dialogue. Spiers was the former food editor of LA Weekly before the paper’s takeover and Nguyen a longtime contributor, and other former staffers like Sarah Bennett worked on the list as well.

Tucked away

The new CdM in Orange County has a tucked-away speakeasy downstairs from the main restaurant. McG’s Newport Beach restaurant isn’t exactly hiding the build-out, particularly with all that leather and marble, but the subterranean room does feature a slew of standalone cocktails from barman Ravin Buzzell.

CdM

Doesn’t cost much

Today is the day for cheap eats in the Valley, as Dog Haus celebrates three years in North Hollywood by doling out $3 hot dogs and $3 beers all day long.

Big spends

Baltaire has a high-flying new wine dinner coming up on April 3 with the folks from Harlan Estate. The blowout $750 event includes some 20-year-old vintages and five courses of food.

Goodbye Reds

Reds Pizza in Santa Monica is closed, reports Toddrickallen, which means the Westside is now short one unique Swedish-style pizza spot.

Watch it all

Check out the latest episode of YouTube series In the Mix, featuring DJs dining at Encino mainstay Scratch Bar with chef Phillip Frankland Lee.