We started at the bar since we were early. They had "Happy Hour" so we took advantage of that and ordered 2 Moscow Mules and Sandi had the Spring Fling. The couple next to us ordered something that looked interesting. It looked like a Parmesan crisp but the other side of it was a bunch of dumplings. I asked them how they were and they said they were delicious.
At 6 p.m. we were escorted to our table outside. Our server Chris came to introduce himself and informed us he would be happy to answer any questions. Boy, did we all have questions regarding the different plates and how things were cooked. I knew I had to order the Lobster Roll and the Beef Tartare since I've had those before. My favorite Crab Toast has long been dead. Chris mentioned that people still ask for it. I wish they would put it back on the menu.
In addition to the Beef and Lobster Roll with green curry, we did order the Dumplings, Pork Chops with cherries that was ever so good. Another plate we ordered was the Crispy Suckling Pig with lettuce, peach chutney, and chili. They were meant to be eaten wrapped in lettuce with a bit of lime.
A side of Grilled White Rice accompanied our various pork dishes. We had to have some vegetables so we all voted for the Brussels Sprouts with lemon and furikake. They were nice and crispy and had a bit of a burnt taste which we all loved.
It was time for dessert. Sandi got a "Happy Birthday" plate with an assortment of fruit and chocolate. Chris handed us the menu and as usual, it was hard for us to make decisions so we ordered a Miso Mochi which I've had before, Miso Donut with honey caramel and the "Campfire" which was like a smores bar. It had a chocolate cake underneath a graham cracker base with toasted marshmallows. This was served on top of what looked like a campfire complete with smoke. While we were enjoying the various desserts, Chris brought 1 more compliments of the Chef. It was what he tried to talk us into ordering. Shaved ice with blueberries. It sounded so "elementary" that we didn't give it a second thought. It ended up to be my favorite one! We were not too fond of the Miso donut which we thought was just o.k.
All in all, it was a nice dinner and we left the restaurant as Happy Campers. Hinoki and the Bird is located at 10 W. Century Dr. in Los Angeles.
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