Message: | Several previous posts were not complimentary about Bossa Nova with one or two exceptions. Most that I read claimed it was inauthentic.
I dined there this evening and while I am no expert on what is authentic in Brazilian food, I found the whole experience to be quite delightful.
My friend and I started off with Coxinha, a deep-fried Brazilian delicacy of shredded chicken and cheese in a a breaded dough. This was a new thing for me and I thought it flavorful and interesting. Wanting to keep with the true Brazilian theme, we shied away from the pizzas (which did look fabulous).
I ordered the New York loin steak and my friend the Red Snapper filet. Both were served with Black Beans and White Rice, Salsa, fried Plantains, and Yucca powder. Since I am more accustomed to Black Beans and Rice from Versailles, I found the incorporation of the Yucca powder into the mixture a different and deepening flavor. The steak was tender and topped with a large mound of garlic butter and the Red Snapper was extremely moist and very flavorful.
Now here is the point that I found most impressive about the evening: the prices. While the food might not be "the best" in Brazilian, the Red Snapper dinner was only $8.95 and the steak dinner was $12.95. Also, we ordered a bottle of Trapiche Pinot Noir from Argentina. I have purchased other Trapiche products retail including Malbec and Cabernet and the label has traditionally run in the $10.00 range. This bottle, at a restaurant, was only $15.00. Most of the wine list was in the $15.00 range which indicates they don't do the usual 2 1/2 times mark-up. THAT impressed me. I am also pleased with the idea that they are open until 4:00am, so I can get a fix late at night. I can't wait to try one of their pizzas!
7181 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, (323) 436-7999. |