Raymond's Birthday Dinner at Dominique's Kitchen

He happened to be he in Los Angeles on his birthday; the last time he was here on his special day, was 5 years ago.  I invited Raymond and his wife Alma for the birthday dinner.

It was a Monday night and we were lucky as they had the escargot at a "happy hour" rate which was $3.00 for 3 pieces. If you haven't had it, this is the time to experiment so in case you don't fall in love with these creatures, you would have wasted only $3.00. If by chance you do end up getting engaged to them, you would blame yourself for not finding your true love earlier. They really are the best escargot in town. The other "happy hour" appetizer we ordered was the deep fried kale with shaves of parmesan cheese. It is a nice way of having your vegetables and really enjoying it; how could you not....it's deep fried. Three people also had the Lobster Bisque soup which they all loved.

Alma has never heard of Dominique's Roasted Chicken cooked in olive oil, herbs and a rich au jus so I talked her into trying it as it really is very good. Of course she almost screamed when she saw the size of the chicken. It came with the addicting garlic fries which went well with the au jus.
The birthday boy and Erik had the Slow Braised Beef Short Ribs with pinot noir, tomato, onion and garlic served with a creamy mashed potatoes and vegetables. I have had this and if you like short ribs, this is the place to go as it is so tender that you really do not need a knife to cut it. I decided on the Lamb Chops with creamy polenta cooked with roasted garlic and thyme au jus and a side of vegetables. All I can say is: "Yummmm"

We had to have dessert of course. Raymond and I had the Baked Alaska, Alma and Erik had the Floating Island. I have had all their desserts and you really cannot go wrong on any of them.

We ordered some entrees "to go" as my niece Aimee who just had a baby chose to stay home with her husband Elliot and Elliot's mom Louise.  We ordered them the Roasted Chicken, Short Ribs and Mushroom Risotto.  We also got them some Lobster Bisque. They all raved about the food.
So, even if were not together at the restaurant, we were all united in spirit and I think Raymond had a very happy birthday.

Dominique's Kitchen is located at 522 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. in Redondo Beach, California.