Photo by Alan J Clift for The Los Angeles Beat
The Detour Bistro Bar is joining the ranks of the stylish restaurants on Culver City’s restaurant row. While the Farm to Table concept and locally sourced produce may not be unheard of in this hip neighborhood, a unique wine program and a value-driven menu cooked from scratch just might make the locals take notice. After all, Angelenos Ranni Kumgisky and Dane Pearson met while playing beach volleyball, and you can’t get much more local than that. The Detour is the brick-and-mortar incarnation of Great Dane Catering and Events, which boasts five stars on Yelp.
The LA Beat was invited to a media preview where we were able to sample some of their innovative cocktails and seasonal Spring dishes, which attempt to combine traditional European cuisine and seasonal California inspired dishes. Following the ubiquitous small plates/large plates formula, the seasonal lunch, dinner, and brunch menus will change weekly.
The cocktail menu was thoroughly enjoyable. The Diablo was very refreshing, without the usual bite of tequila. Even though tequila and I aren’t the best of friends, we got along great at Detour Bistro, this cocktail was light and citrusy. The Summer Splash was a Cosmo with pineapple, which was interesting and very drinkable. From their wines, which were chosen to complement the dishes, the Prelius, an Italian Cabernet Sauvignon, and the Turò Negre Spanish Blend were both smooth and well-balanced.
The food is outstanding, with a great presentation. Two favorite dishes were the shrimp tacos and the Cubano sandwich. The tacos were succulent with just the right amount of spice in the cilantro sauce. The Cubano was flavorful, the mustard was a perfect compliment to the pork. We were also treated to a wide array of flatbreads, including Meatball, Yam & Brie with truffle oil, and Lamb & Goat Cheese with apricot marmalade and mint.
The Spring menu will also feature Leg of Lamb Pita Pockets with roasted lamb, mediterranean salad, tahini sauce, Crab Cakes served with house made aioli, Seafood Paella, Mushroom Risotto with Shiitake and Criminis, and an Ahi Tuna Salad with sushi grade tuna, ginger and an Asian dressing.
The restaurant is very open and airy, yet comfortable and inviting. There is al fresco dining on a patio and deck that are pet-friendly. The staff was very knowledgeable, and more than happy to describe the evenings selections. This is a great venue for date night, a Sunday brunch, or dinner with the family. Congratulations, on a wonderful new restaurant.
I’m a fan and will back soon.
Elise Thompson contributed to this post. All photos by Alan J Clift for The LA Beat.
