Thursday, February 4, 2016

Bar Toscana, Brentwood's Hidden Italian Gem

Bar Toscana is the cocktail bar next door to longtime Brentwood favorite, Toscana. The Italian trattoria has been in business for 26 years. In the competitive culinary world of Los Angeles, that means they must be doing something right!

For their cocktails at Bar Toscana, they have brought William Perbellini who came from Italy to head the bar program here.

Bar Toscana

Perbellini's cocktail menu ranges from the classics to the seasonal, like this Costa Esmeralda (cognac, Grand Marnier, grapes, and sage)
Bar Toscana
I love grapes as a cocktail ingredient, and here it is paired with a grape-based spirit.

Barrel aged negroni with Plymouth gin, campari, and sweet vermouth
Bar Toscana
This was an unusually good negroni, expertly made and even smoother thanks to the barrel aging.


Speziato (Barsol pisco, aperol, red bell pepper, fresh basil, fresh lemon juice, $14)
Bar Toscana
This is probably the most unique or adventurous drink on the regular menu. I definitely enjoyed the vegetal notes from the bell pepper, which was balanced just right.

Fancy bar snacks: almonds, cheese, and olives
Bar Toscana
Pearbellini (Grey Goose Le Poire, St. Germain, muddled resh pear, lime juice, Peychaud's bitters, $14) - a play on the bartender's last name.
Bar Toscana
The cocktail menu also list suggested food pairings. The Pearbellini should be paired with some Burrata and speck. Burrata is always a favorite of mine, and the one they serve here is of great quality!
Bar Toscana

Bar Toscana
You can get larger dishes or entrees here, which you should. I really liked the Lasagnetta di Carne - homemade spinach lasagna with beef ragu, besciamella sauce and parmigiano ($14 for a half order)
Bar Toscana
This lasagna was spot on for me. It was lighter than most yet still hearty and comforting.

Another seasonal cocktail: La Figata (dark rum, fresh lime, figs, cinnamon essence)
Bar Toscana
To those who don't live in the area, Brentwood may not be a foodie destination, but Bar Toscana has a lot going on for them. The great food has sustained Toscana for 26 years and William Perbellini's cocktails incorporating fresh produce are a rare find in Brentwood. If you're ever looking for a place to eat or drink in Brentwood, don't miss this place.


Bar Toscana
11633 San Vicente Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(310) 826-0028
Bar Toscana Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

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