Our first time there but not our last! Our experience at the Phoenician was a delight. We went on a Thursday night for my wife's birthday, and at 6:30 the restaurant was only 1/4 full, due to a concert and a carnival both in Westwood that night. We'd driven by the place many times before and it was always crowded, so we were glad for a little quiet.
The General Manager, Jackie, greeted us at the door and had in her notes that we'd requested a quiet corner table. She had it ready for us, along with a note on the table saying Happy Birthday. She brought over ice and glasses for our drinks, chatted for a few minutes, and then took our appetizer order - lamb meatballs in tzatziki sauce and a delightful brie, roasted garlic, and chutney dish.
Our waiter, who also happened to be the assistant manager, told us to take our time and let him know when we were ready to order our entrees. Which meant we got to enjoy our food-which was delicious!- at a leisurely pace. Both our waiter and Jackie stopped by now and then to bring more ice.
When we finally ordered, my wife got the mushroom ravioli and I got the short ribs over corn & zucchini pudding, with a side of string beans.
Well, let me just say those were some of the best raviolis we've ever had. And the short rib and pudding was done to perfection. I didn't even need my knife to cut it.
Sadly, we were too full for dessert after such a large meal - we really wanted to try the nutella creme brulee. Next time we'll know to just split an appetizer, or skip it entirely, if we want room for dessert and coffee.
And yes, there will definitely be a next time. With friends along to try it as well.
For those wondering, there are also several gluten-free and vegetarian options, and they will adjust a dish, when feasible, to meet dietary needs or preferences. read more