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Bacari Silverlake
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Bacari Silverlake
8.4
Venetian-inspired small plates restaurant features tree-house-like outdoor patios with rustic Mediterranean decor throughout multiple levels. Chef Lior Hillel crafts Mediterranean tapas alongside rotating small-production wines, creating a neighborhood favorite since becoming the Kronfli Brothers' fifth LA location.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Hummus, Pear and Brie Pizza, Brussels Sprouts
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Multi-level outdoor patios with rustic Mediterranean charm and 90-minute open bar special
Who should go: Small plate lovers seeking festive neighborhood dining
When to visit: Happy hour weekdays 5-6pm for $2 off
What to order: Lamb hummus, seasonal flatbreads, Brussels sprouts
Insider tip: Request upper patio seating for most intimate treehouse vibe
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - challenging after 5pm, arrive early or use rideshare. Sunset Boulevard spots 2 blocks north are easier
Dress code: LA casual elevated - nice jeans and button-down works, but lean slightly dressy for dates
Noise level: Moderate outdoor buzz - can hold conversation but not quiet, lower patios livelier than upper deck
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation after 7pm, book ahead or arrive at 5:30pm opening
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 60% of menu is vegetarian with creative preparations beyond basics
Vegan options: Good options - most vegetable dishes can be made vegan, ask about dairy in spreads
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates, many naturally GF plates but shared fryer for some items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for first dates - romantic treehouse atmosphere without being stuffy, shareable plates give you something to talk about, and moderate noise lets you actually hear each other. Request upper patio for most intimate vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky on weekends. Best bet: arrive right at 5pm opening or try the bar for immediate seating. Weekday lunches are much easier for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (8+) who can handle small plates and enjoy outdoor dining. High chairs available but tight spacing on patios makes stroller navigation difficult. Better for families at lunch than busy dinner service.
How much should I budget per person? Plan $50-70 per person with drinks - you'll want 3-4 small plates each plus cocktails or wine. The 90-minute open bar special ($45pp) is excellent value if drinking.
Is the 90-minute open bar worth it? Yes if you drink 3+ cocktails or wine glasses - breaks even at 3 drinks and includes beer/wine/cocktails from set menu. Not worth it if you're eating quickly or prefer premium spirits.
Best For
Better for: Choose Bacari for romantic outdoor ambiance and Mediterranean small plates over generic patios - the multi-level treehouse setting and Venetian-inspired decor create special occasion feel while neighborhood vibe keeps it approachable. Better happy hour value than most Silver Lake spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want a quiet dinner conversation (moderate noise level), need large entrees instead of tapas, or prefer indoor AC dining. Also skip if your group can't agree on sharing - the small plates format requires coordination.
Bacari Silverlake
8.6
Mediterranean small plates restaurant featuring tree-house-like outdoor patios with string lights and rustic decor. Weekend brunch offers bottomless mimosas, bellinis, and Bloody Marys alongside tapas-style dishes like Turkish eggs and egg pizza. Part of the Kronfli Brothers family-owned restaurant group since 2021.
Must-Try Dishes:
Turkish Eggs with Aleppo Butter, Egg Pizza, Chilaquiles
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Enchanting multi-level outdoor patios create intimate tree-canopy dining experience
Who should go: Couples and friend groups seeking photogenic brunch atmosphere
When to visit: Saturday-Sunday brunch 10:30am-2:30pm for bottomless drinks
What to order: Turkish eggs, egg pizza, chilaquiles with bottomless cocktails
Insider tip: Reservations fill weeks ahead; arrive early for walk-in patio seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - challenging on weekends. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away $8. Arrive 15min early to circle.
Dress code: Casual-chic brunch attire - sundresses, nice jeans with tops. Instagram-ready without being stuffy.
Noise level: Moderate outdoor ambiance - string lights and foliage absorb sound. Easy conversation at your table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 60% of menu is vegetarian Mediterranean small plates. Cheese, veggie, egg-forward dishes.
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 adaptable dishes. Staff accommodating but not the primary focus.
Gluten-free options: Moderate options - some tapas naturally GF, but limited bread substitutes for brunch items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for 2nd-3rd dates. The romantic patio setting impresses, but weekend brunch crowds and bottomless mimosas create party energy that may overwhelm getting-to-know-you conversation. Weekday dinner is more intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Difficult on weekends - arrive right at 10:30am opening or expect 60-90min waits. Tuesday-Thursday evenings you'll likely get seated within 30min. Bar seating is first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for brunch with caveats - outdoor seating works for kids 8+ who can sit for meals. No high chairs on patios. Weekend brunch crowds skew adult. Better for families at weekday dinner when it's calmer.
How long should I plan to stay? Budget 90-120 minutes for brunch with bottomless drinks - pacing is leisurely and small plates arrive gradually. Dinner moves faster at 60-75 minutes for 3-4 plates.
Is the bottomless brunch worth it? Yes if you'll have 3+ drinks ($18 bottomless vs $12-14 per cocktail). Quality mimosas and bellinis, not cheap prosecco. 90-minute time limit enforced but rarely an issue.
Best For
Better for: Bacari beats competitors on atmosphere and value: the tree-canopy patio is more enchanting than typical sidewalk seating, bottomless brunch pricing is $5-8 cheaper than similar Silver Lake spots, and Mediterranean tapas offer more variety than standard American brunch menus.
Skip if: Choose elsewhere if you want quick service (tapas pacing is slow), need guaranteed seating without advance planning, prefer traditional brunch entrees over small plates, or want quiet conversation during weekend brunch service.
Bacari Silverlake
8.6
Venetian-inspired small plates restaurant featuring Mediterranean dishes by Chef Lior Hillel. Weekend brunch includes bottomless mimosas, bellinis, and sparkling sangria for $30, served in stunning tree-house-like outdoor patios. Part of the Kronfli Brothers family-owned restaurant group.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Pita, Stuffed Mushrooms, Beet Gnocchi
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Hidden garden patio with towering trees creates magical Mediterranean escape
Who should go: Couples and groups seeking elevated small plates experience
When to visit: Weekend brunch for bottomless drinks, weeknight happy hour
What to order: Lamb pita, stuffed mushrooms, bottomless brunch package
Insider tip: Arrive early on weekends for best patio seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - competitive but doable. Sunset Blvd has metered spots; side streets are residential permit after 6pm. Arrive 10-15 min early to circle
Dress code: Elevated casual - think nice jeans with blouse/button-down. The patio's Instagram-worthy so people dress up, but it's not stuffy
Noise level: Moderate indoor, quieter on patio - perfect for conversation. Trees buffer street noise, making outdoor tables ideal for dates
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm. Brunch waits hit 45+ min by 11am
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 15 min. Tuesday-Thursday dinner is easier, 20-30 min typical
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 40% of menu works. Stuffed mushrooms, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, multiple dips with pita
Vegan options: Moderate - 4-5 options but they're solid. Cauliflower shawarma, hummus, baba ganoush, grilled vegetables. Ask server to confirm preparation
Gluten-free options: Yes - most proteins and vegetables are safe. Skip pita but lavash crackers available. Kitchen accommodates with advance notice
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for 2nd-3rd date when you want to impress. The patio ambiance does heavy lifting - string lights, trees, intimate without being too dark. Sharing small plates breaks ice naturally. Maybe too scene-y for a quiet first meet
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch/early dinner yes. Weekend brunch/dinner - make a reservation or expect 45-90 min wait. Bar seating is first-come and moves faster if you're flexible. Happy hour (4-6pm) is your best walk-in window
Is it kid-friendly? Brunch yes (under 10yo), dinner not recommended. Patio works for well-behaved kids - space to move, casual vibe. But evening crowd skews date night/girls night. No kids menu, though kitchen will make simple pasta. High chairs available
How does bottomless brunch work? $30 gets unlimited mimosas, bellinis, or sparkling sangria for 90 minutes with food purchase. Must order entree, starts when drinks arrive. Solid value - 3+ drinks breaks even. Pacing matters or you'll be done by noon
Can I host a birthday dinner here? Perfect for 6-10 people. Patio corner tables handle groups well, family-style ordering shines with more people. Email 48hrs ahead for semi-private area. They don't do cake but won't stop you from bringing one
Best For
Better for: Bacari wins on atmosphere and weekend brunch value. That patio is unmatched in Silver Lake - feels like you're in a Mediterranean villa, not LA. The $30 bottomless deal beats Sunset Tower ($45) and Perch ($38). Better for groups than Jon & Vinny's (too cramped) and more interesting food than Cliff's Edge
Skip if: You want a quiet business lunch (noise picks up), need guaranteed parking (valet situations like Republique easier), or want a full-sized entree (small plates mean $60-80pp). If you're not into sharing food or want classic American brunch, go to Sqirl or All Time. If patio's closed due to weather, half the magic disappears
Bacari Silverlake
8.4
Chef Lior Hillel's Venetian-inspired small plates restaurant transforms weekend brunch with Mediterranean dishes like shakshouka, mujadara with fried egg, and the acclaimed Bacari burger. The tree-house outdoor patios and rustic Mediterranean decor create a neighborhood favorite atmosphere, complemented by a notable 90-minute open bar brunch special.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shakshouka, Mujadara with Fried Egg, Bacari Burger
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Venetian-inspired tapas meets weekend brunch with unique 90-minute open bar
Who should go: Brunch crowds seeking Mediterranean small plates and festive atmosphere
When to visit: Weekend brunch 10:30am-2:30pm for full experience
What to order: Shakshouka, mujadara with egg, lamb hummus
Insider tip: Arrive early on weekends or book ahead for tree-house patio seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - moderately difficult on weekends. Sunset Junction lots within 2 blocks, $5-8. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Dress code: Casual chic - sundresses, nice jeans welcome. Silver Lake neighborhood vibe, not stuffy.
Noise level: Lively but conversational - expect brunch buzz but can still hear across table
Weekend wait: Not applicable - dinner service Wed-Sat only, reservations strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes, patio fills first
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 40% of menu including shakshouka, mujadara, Brussels sprouts, multiple spreads
Vegan options: Moderate - 4-5 options available, hummus and vegetable plates can be modified
Gluten-free options: Yes - staff knowledgeable, many small plates naturally GF, cross-contamination awareness
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for brunch dates - the tree-house patio creates intimate atmosphere while shared small plates encourage interaction. Skip for dinner dates as brunch-only weekends limit evening romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, arrive before 11:30am. Weekends risky - 90-minute open bar draws crowds. Book 3-5 days ahead for weekend patio seating or accept 30-45 minute wait for indoor.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes with caveats - outdoor patio works for ages 6+, boozy brunch crowd means not ideal for toddlers. No kids menu but shakshuka and burger appeal to younger palates. Best before noon on weekends.
How does the 90-minute open bar work? Weekend brunch special - unlimited mimosas, bellinis, and select cocktails for 90 minutes with food purchase. Starts when first drink is served. Groups of 6+ may need to reserve ahead to participate.
Can I go for just drinks? No - food purchase required, especially during peak brunch hours. This is a dining-focused experience, not a bar. Plan for small plates minimum.
Best For
Better for: Mediterranean brunch with cocktail value - the 90-minute open bar and Venetian-inspired menu (shakshouka, lamb hummus) beats typical American brunch spots. Tree-house patio ambiance exceeds standard sidewalk seating. Neighborhood vibe more relaxed than trendy downtown competitors.
Skip if: You need dinner reservations (brunch-focused), want quiet family brunch (boozy crowd), need easy parking (Silver Lake challenges), or prefer traditional American breakfast (this is Mediterranean-forward). Also skip if you're looking for quick counter service - this is full-service dining with pace.
Bacari Silverlake
8.4
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Birthday & Celebration Central
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Chef Lior Hillel's Venetian-inspired small plates draw consistent crowds to this Kronfli Brothers restaurant. Tree-covered outdoor patios create an enchanted garden atmosphere, while the kitchen turns out shareable Mediterranean tapas alongside craft cocktails and a 90-minute open bar special that's become a neighborhood institution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Hummus with Grilled Pita, Sea Bass with Charred Shishito, Brussels Sprouts with Harissa Tahini
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Multi-level treehouse patios with rustic Mediterranean decor and family-style small plates
Who should go: Date nights, celebrations, groups sharing tapas
When to visit: Weekend brunch for bottomless drinks or weeknight dinner
What to order: Lamb hummus, sea bass, and any seasonal vegetables
Insider tip: The 90-minute open bar special is legendary but requires full table participation
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - challenging after 6pm on weekends. Arrive early or use rideshare. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away ($8 flat rate)
Dress code: Elevated casual - date night attire works best. Jeans fine with a nice top, but skip athleisure
Noise level: Lively but conversational - indoor can get louder on weekends, patios are ideal for dates
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation after 7pm, especially Friday/Saturday
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 40% of menu is vegetarian with creative preparations beyond basic sides
Vegan options: Moderate - 4-5 dedicated options including hummus varieties and roasted vegetables, can modify several dishes
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates with advance notice, many naturally GF mezze options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for first dates - romantic patio setting without being stuffy, shareable plates keep conversation flowing naturally, and the lively atmosphere removes awkward silences. Request outdoor seating when booking.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday dinners before 7pm - usually yes with 15-20 min wait. Weekend dinners - highly unlikely, book 3-5 days ahead. Bar seating available first-come, full menu accessible.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) at brunch or early dinner. Not ideal for toddlers - smaller tables, shareable format, and date night ambiance. No kids menu but hummus and pita work well.
How does the open bar special work? 90 minutes of select wine, beer, and cocktails for $35pp during designated hours (typically weekend brunch). Entire table must participate - no splitting. Worth it for groups of 4+, legendary value but can get rowdy.
What's the actual spend per person? $45-65pp with drinks - plan 3-4 small plates per person plus cocktails ($14-16 each). Groups of 4+ can share more efficiently and drop closer to $50pp.
Best For
Better for: Romantic outdoor ambiance, Instagram-worthy patio setting, shareable Mediterranean tapas, value-driven open bar experience, group celebrations with the buzz of a scene
Skip if: You want quiet intimate conversation, need guaranteed walk-in seating on weekends, prefer traditional entree-style dining, have very young children, or want full vegetarian-focused restaurant rather than accommodations
Bacari Silverlake
8.3
Venetian-inspired small plates restaurant with Mediterranean influences featuring Chef Lior Hillel's shareable tapas. Multi-level tree-house-like outdoor patios create an enchanted garden atmosphere with rustic decor, while the 90-minute open bar special draws crowds for brunch and dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Hummus with Grilled Pita, Brussels Sprouts, Egg Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Stunning multi-level outdoor patios with a secret garden vibe
Who should go: Groups, dates, brunch crowds seeking shareable Mediterranean plates
When to visit: Weekend brunch or weeknight dinner, reserve weeks ahead
What to order: Lamb hummus, brussels sprouts, any of the small plates
Insider tip: Ask for upper deck seating for the most intimate experience
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, challenging evenings/weekends. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks east. Arrive 15 min early or rideshare recommended
Dress code: Casual-chic - sundresses, nice jeans, button-downs. The garden vibe skews relaxed but Instagram-worthy
Noise level: Moderate-lively - conversation flows easily, gets energetic during brunch service with music
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm. Reserve 2-3 weeks ahead
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait Monday-Thursday lunch, but dinner still books up 1 week out
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 60% of menu is vegetarian-friendly. Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, multiple hummus variations are highlights
Vegan options: Moderate - 4-5 items can be modified (specify no cheese). Hummus plates, roasted vegetables, ask server for recommendations
Gluten-free options: Limited - Most small plates contain bread/pasta elements. Hummus plates and select vegetables work, but not dedicated prep
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially upper deck tables - romantic lighting, shareable plates encourage interaction, whimsical atmosphere breaks ice. Request quieter section if you want deeper conversation over the livelier bar area
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch only. Dinner/brunch walk-ins mean 60-90 min bar wait. Bar seating (first-come) is your best bet - full menu available, better than waiting
Is it kid-friendly? Acceptable for well-behaved 8+ at weekday dinner in lower patio area. Weekend brunch skews adult (mimosas, tight seating). No kids menu but hummus/pasta work. Skip for special occasions or toddlers
How long should I plan to stay? 90 minutes minimum - small plates arrive staggered, pace is leisurely. The 90-minute bottomless brunch is designed for lingering. Don't rush it
Is the 90-minute bottomless brunch worth it? Yes if you drink - mimosas, bellinis, sangria flow freely and food's included. Draws crowds though, so expect energy and noise. Reserve early for best patio tables
Best For
Better for: Outdoor ambiance and social dining - the multi-level patio experience is unmatched in the neighborhood. Best for groups of 4-6 who want to share everything and aren't in a hurry. Weekend brunch scene with bottomless drinks
Skip if: You want quiet conversation (try Osteria La Buca), need extensive vegan options (go Elf Café), require quick service under 60 minutes, or want traditional entree-style Italian (head to Alimento)