Taking over the former Mezze space in West Hollywood is a
mafia-inspired hangout called as The Nice Guy. Taking cues from late 70’s and
early 80’s interior, the H.Wood execs (the brain behind hotspots such as Bootsy
Bellows, Hooray Henry’s, and Shorebar) never seemed shy about being upfront
with their upbringing.
The vibe here feels like your favorite supper club with
its intimate candles setting, piano play, white-marble bar tops,
floral-patterned booths, large couches, and dark wood walls. Also, the
reservation-only concept breaths hospitality - they want to make sure they know
who you are, what you like to drink, what time of the night you’d like to eat
and where you like to be seated every night. I imagine in an upscale lounge
like this, they expect a sense of intimacy, familiarity, and camaraderie within
the regulars. But fret not…to score a reservation, all you have to do is call
the hostess and answer her questions.
John-Carlos Kuramoto, formerly of Michael’s in Santa Monica,
has put together Italian-inspired bites, ranging from healthy to comfort fare.
My favorites are the Duck Banh Mi Pizza, Chicken Parm Wings, and the 8 oz Dry
Aged New York Steak. And for the
healthier items, I thought the Black Tuscan Kale Chips, Blue Crab Arancini, and
Charred Baby Sprouting Broccoli were excellent. Other than those, of course,
they have the classic Margherita or Prosciutto Pizza, Meatballs with tomato
sauce, and the Burger with candied bacon. Even if you decided to go with the
more conventional dishes, rest assured the dishes will be carefully executed
and taste much better than the typical bar food.
Other than the food, The Nice Guy is also a craft cocktail destination. Helmed by master mixologist Brian Stewart (of SoHo House) in collaboration with h.wood Group's Adam Koral, this place boasts a large selection of spirits, fresh juices, and top shelf Liquor.
I thought the Bobby Soxer (Casamigos Reposado, blackberries, fresh lemon juice, honey, Campari, and fresno chili peppers), the Chairman (Gentleman Jack, Aperol, cacao, salted cola reduction, and cider vinegar), and the Daddy’s Little Angel (Silencio Mezcal, pineapple juice, organic agave nectar, fresh lemon juice, and Angostura bitters halo) were some of the tastiest cocktails I’ve tasted.
Cocktail
I didn’t like as much - Mother’s Milk (Tito’s Vodka, house made chocolate milk,
soda water)…tasted too sweet, it felt like a 50-50 mixture of Yoohoo and Vodka.
Additionally, if you really want to impress your date or group of friends, you
should go big – order your cocktail in a large punch bowl for $350.
