No trip to LA is complete, for me, without a visit to one (or two, or three…) of Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo’s establishments. I was in the City of Angels last August when my brother and I took my parents to Son of a Gun; it would be their first time. Not ours. We got a 6:30pm reservation, seated at the floor to ceiling bay window round tables, giving us a clear sidewalk view of the always-lively W 3rd Street in WeHo.
Although this is the duo’s seafood-focused restaurant, Son of a Gun is well known for some ‘turf’ dishes – making it perfect for the Grandidge’s. Mom and I lean towards ‘surf’ more often than not. It’s obvious, though, that this nautical themed restaurant celebrates the bounty of the sea. You feel as if you’re on the East Coast –ok fine, maybe Malibu– with all the fish house/beach house memorabilia wall decor. The servers, each one in their plaid button downs and jeans, brought out the following delicious small plates…
Uni, Burrata, Button Mushroom, Yuzu
This came out first, yet it was my favorite dish.
Yellowfin Tuna, Leche de Tigre, Avocado, Tortilla
If you’re curious about the ‘tiger’s milk’ (?!), it’s actually a term for a citrus-based marinade that cures the seafood in a ceviche. Just in case you were thinking it was something else…
Heirloom Tomato, Avocado, Chili, Lime, Miso, Corn
I could have eaten those tomatoes by themselves; seasonal produce in California is just divine.
Lobster Roll, Celery, Lemon Aioli
They should call this a 2-bite lobster roll. Make sure to order accordingly – don’t worry, we did.
Shrimp Toast, Hoisin, Herbs, Sriracha Mayo
Son of a Gun is known for their rich, shrimp toast. The flavors remind me of Thai shrimp cakes; you must order this miniature, albeit satisfying, sized sandwich.
Smoked Baby Back Ribs, Pineapple, Chili Soy
This was for ze father and ze brother.
Fried Chicken Sandwich, Spicy B&B Pickle Slaw, Rooster Aioli
This has ranked top spots in many of the LA ‘it’ lists for sandwiches, fried chicken, etc. Another item I’m going to add a ‘must order’ tag to.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Turnip, Cinnamon, Peanut, Egg
Again, California is blessed with an abundance of organic, crisp greens. These brussels sprouts being some of them.
PHOTOS :: Me