X Bar

At the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Century City (310) 228-1234

 

If the confluence of ICM, Fox, CAA and UTA makes Century City the new Hollywood jungle, then X Bar may just be the official watering hole for its relentless creatures.  The suggestively christened lounge is one of the latest to offer small plates and signature cocktails to the movers and shakers of the city, albeit in this sleepy locale.

 

Designed by the renowned Gensler architect firm, the lounge incorporates elements of water, fire, earth and California foliage to create an indoor/outdoor atmosphere that includes live music, screenings, and an outdoor fire pit around which to seal the deal.  Inside, by the 28-foot bar with the backlit green glass face, the ambiance is swanky L.A.  Outside, dwarfed by the towers of the city and swirling amongst suited patrons, the vibe is East Coast.

 

We’re not crazy about the faux bamboo but the mood lighting, friendly staff and Luther Vandross crooning on the stereo are definitely reasons to linger and dive into the menu.  White cushioned banquets beckon you from under fabulous shades that look like marshmallows pinned to a wire crown.  Begin with a Green Tea martini, hands down the best drink on this or any other menu around.  Hints of vanilla dance with herbs, tea and vodka to make this the sly cocktail that you just can’t get enough of and which will have you sign any dotted line.  Tequila drinkers will say adios to fruit concoctions once they try and Lavender Rosemary Margarita.

 

Outstanding small plates include cubes of buttery tuna sashimi stacked on crunchy won tons with avocado salad.  The baked Pinchitos Chicken Bites are a baked alternative to the fried, spicier, Fiery Chicken Morsels and have a distinctly Indian flavor thanks to the paprika, lemon, garlic and coriander seasoning.  You can also build your own gourmet burger bite with a choice of patties (angus, garden or turkey), cheeses (we recommend gorgonzola) and spread (chipotle aioli).  An impressive selection of cognacs, ports, cordials and coffee-inspired martinis provide the perfect dessert or nightcap.

 

- Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla