Wood & Vine Is A Nice Surprise In The Heart Of Hollywood

Once home to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and offices to Charlie Chaplin, Hollywood's Wood & Vine occupies the first few floors of the historic Taft Building.

We stopped by for an al fresco dinner before heading across the street for a show at The Pantages.

General manager Woody warmly greeted us and told us about the history of the building while we passed the long wooden bar and headed to a cozy spot on the patio. The creative cocktail menu includes The Accomplice with vodka, strawberry, lemon and champagne; a Koala martini with gin, eucalyptus, lime and egg white and My Other Lover with mescal, lime simple syrup, peach bitters sage and blueberries among other specialty libations.

Portions are big and can be easily shared. Standout appetizers include the spicy popping shrimp with tartare sauce and a gorgeous charcuterie platter with cheeses, salami, pickled vegetables, grilled bread, mustard and jam.

We also tried a very cheesy delicious lobster mac and cheese with pine nuts and crispy prosciutto; Mama's tortellini with ricotta stuffed tortellini in a red bell pepper sauce with sautéed spinach; charred Brussels sprouts in a chili paste with brown sugar and lime and pan crusted salmon with a roasted tomato sauce, peas, prosciutto and roasted tomatoes.

Wood & Vine's menu also includes a lamb burger, pork black ribs, a huge ribeye steak and chicken and waffles.

Desserts include a dolce de leche chocolate lavender infused cookie bar which is heavy on the lavender, a butterscotch crumble with maple ice cream and a Nutella bombshell chocolate cake.

The patio includes a large communal fire pit/table for big groups and small intimate tables in a beautiful romantic setting with strands of twinkling lights and blooming trees overhead. Inside, the mood is industrial with high ceilings, dark wood, a grey and black checkerboard floor and modern light fixtures.

Whether you are stopping by for a pre or post theatre meal, lingering over drinks or enjoying the sunshine at a weekend brunch, Wood & Vine is a nice surprise in the heart of Hollywood.

Located at 6280 Hollywood Boulevard, 323.334.3360. Dinner provided by Wood & Vine.