Nightshade’s Shrimp Toast Wins National ‘Dish of the Year’ Award

Dish winner

Good news for Nightshade in the Arts District: Mei Lin’s flavor-packed shrimp toast has just been named the Dish of the Year by Food & Wine, where it was also a Best New Restaurant winner. Editor-at-large Jordana Rothman says that when the dish hits the table, “for one blessed second, it’s the only thing.”

New face

Clayton’s Public House has a new chef of note: James Wakefield. He comes to the Downtown bar and restaurant by way of England, and has spent years working in fine dining kitchens including three Michelin-starred Daniel in New York City.

Howlin’ for a cause

Fundraising maestro Billy Harris is back with another star-studded event, this one featuring food from Howlin’ Ray’s and Trudy’s Underground BBQ, among others. The June 29 event runs $100 a head, and comes with cocktails, appetizers, wine, dessert, and more, with proceeds going to the LA Regional Food Bank.

Hot hot heat

Speaking of hot chicken, Kim Prince of Hotville Chicken is popping up in Long Beach on June 8 and 9. The spiced-up affair is a full takeover of the kitchen at Beer Belly, meaning hot chicken practically around the clock.

New slice

There’s a new pizza option in Culver City, called Taproom Pizza Co. The restaurant comes to 10712 Jefferson Blvd. by way of the same owners as Lobster & Beer in nearby Palms, and offers everything from starters (meatballs, breadsticks) to sandwiches, pizza, and beer and wine.

OC enjoyment

Brad. A Johnson found a lot to love at the new Louie’s by the Bay in Newport Beach. The OC Register reviewer says the place offers loads of “casual Italian glamor,” thanks to longtime operator of Valentino operator Piero Selvaggio.

The expansion

Burgers Never Say Die is beginning to expand its hours for the summer, starting with an extension of Saturday service to midnight every week. Expect more time to dine coming during the weekdays soon as well.