Best Modern European Restaurants in Universal City

Vespertine delivered one of the most extraordinary dining experiences we’ve ever had in the United States, rivaling the caliber of Michelin three-star restaurants abroad, such as Boragó in Santiago. The food was a stunning combination of originality, flavor, and artistry, each dish a masterpiece that delighted the palate and the eye. Service was impeccable, with the timing of each course orchestrated to perfection. The building itself is a marvel, adding a unique and modern dimension to the experience. While the evening was nearly flawless, there were a few minor areas for improvement. The final dessert felt overly elaborate and heavy, making it challenging to fully enjoy at the end of such a substantial meal. The dessert room, located near the entrance, was uncomfortably chilly on a cool evening, requiring us to retrieve our coats. Lastly, the $20 valet charge came as an unwelcome surprise, especially considering the restaurant’s high price point and the fact that the parking lot is private and on-site. A clearer sign or complimentary parking would have better matched the overall premium experience. These small critiques aside, Vespertine was a truly unforgettable dining journey—one we would highly recommend to anyone seeking a world-class culinary adventure in Los Angeles.

Last night, we had the pleasure of dining at Shirley Brasserie, located in the iconic Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood, CA. From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the elegant and inviting ambience. The decor seamlessly blends classic Hollywood glamour with modern sophistication, creating a perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The food was nothing short of exceptional. Each dish was a delightful blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the chef's creativity and attention to detail. The service was impeccable. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about ensuring we had a great experience. They were more than happy to provide recommendations and accommodate any special requests we had. Overall, Shirley Brasserie exceeded our expectations in every way. We can't wait to return and explore more of their exquisite menu.

Absolutely delicious! Congrats to Chef Mairinger for this Austrian-German gem of a restaurant. It was our 2nd visit with a slightly changed menu this time. My wife had the German veal schnitzel with mushroom sauce with Spätzle and the cucumber salad. I had the sausage sampler with Sauerkraut. We started with the Pretzel Basket. The spreads alone were outstanding. For dessert we got a box with a selection of cookies. I think these were a Christmas special?! Anyhow. We devoured them at home, and they were equally good. The place is a bit on the pricier side, but worth every penny!

Food was amazing (as always). We tried a few new things like the focaccia bread and spicy salami pizza. The room was cold but the good food kept us warm!

Beautiful restaurant with an amazing service and great vibe. Definitely gonna visit again .