stevewilliams

i stopped in to the desert rose cuz i live close and i had to see what what going on at the place with the gorgeous stained glass rose on display for all to see just two blocks north of sunset on hillhurst. i popped in on a tuesday, and incidentally, DURING ONE OF THE BEST HAPPY HOURS I"VE COME ACROSS!!!! I planned to have an appetizer and go to a nearby restaurant after. Didn’t happen. The bartender, Nate, was very witty, personable, and happy to provide service. The falafel concoction (wrap-like) is very big and for $1.25 during happy hour, who cares, just get it. I would have been happy to pay $4 for it. The beef carpaccio was deliscious; one of the best i’ve had! All ingredients were fresh. The crostini was perfect in crunchyness and softness. The beef was spot-on.BEEF CARPACCIO FOR $3!!!! Are you serious?? I think my nectar Margarita was $5. The bartender crushed various fresh limes into the beverage and seemed to know what the hell he was doing. And he was enjoying it, the son of a gun. Beers $3 during Happy hour and i think it was 16 oz. (Peroni, Hefeweitzen, Fat Tire, Stella) Needless to say, after sampling the amazing carpaccio, I decided, what the hell, I’m comfortable as hell, why leave? Plus I was curious as hell to try the happy hour entrees. The $5 burger was excellent. Great bun. Attention to detail on garnishes. Bacon to boot. The fish and chips ($5) were good, not great. The fries were very good. The tartar sauce was very good, but the fish seeemed just a bit off for my palette. (I was actually a bit surprised) I’d try it again, might as well. Fries are $3. Why not get the fish for an extra two? MAybe it will be perfected next time I visit.
I was on a roll, so I also got the Creme Brulee ($7) and some gelato ($2 a scoop) The creme brulee was very generous in size and was topped with a plethora of fresh, fresh fruit. It was a tad underdone, but very nice. And also got a cappacino ($5) which was excellent. The whole staff was very warm and good vibes were in the air. The glassware, plates and utensils were all gorgeous, as was the bartop. CHIMAY ON TAP!!! (WTF?-NICE) The selection of high end booze is also ridiculous. A vast selection of hard to find upscale booze at the bar.

IN summary- I was repeatedly pleasantly surprised. Can’t wait to go for a full dinner. This place looks like it has a bright future! And I was told they would have live music on weekends and possibly more very soon.

The bill for two people, three courses and drinks was $40 during happy hour. SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Happy this place is a walk away. HAppy hours 4-6 pm get there NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!