0 Followers
Written Hand
Master Critic Review
Written Hand
8.0
Written Hand, at the Kimpton Everly, runs a Mediterranean-leaning small-plates menu that leans into fire, olive oil, and shareable dishes for pre- and post-Pantages evenings. Its intimate private dining room lets groups build a coursed menu around head-on prawns, lamb neck, and market vegetables while staying close to Hollywood & Vine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bub & Grandma’s Bread with Whipped Butter, Head-On Prawns with Calabrian Chili, Pomegranate Molasses Lamb Neck
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.3
What makes it special: A design-forward Mediterranean dining room with a cozy private space ideal for pre-theater gatherings.
Who should go: Small groups pairing dinner with a Pantages or Hollywood show.
When to visit: Early evening for pre-show dinners and unhurried courses.
What to order: Bub & Grandma’s Bread, Head-On Prawns, Lamb Neck.
Insider tip: Time your private room reservation to finish about 30–45 minutes before curtain at the Pantages.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet at the Kimpton Everly is the most reliable option (typically $15–$20). Limited metered street parking is available on Argyle and Vine but fills quickly before Pantages shows.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished. Jeans are fine, but most guests wear elevated tops, dresses, or button-downs—especially on show nights.
Noise level: Moderate. The main dining room has a lively pre-theater buzz, but the private room stays comfortably conversational.
Weekend wait: With a reservation, seating is on time. Without one, waits can stretch 45–60 minutes before Pantages showtimes.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait. Midday service is relaxed and easy to walk into.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-driven small plates and mezze-style dishes built around seasonal produce.
Vegan options: Limited — typically 2–3 options, though the kitchen can adjust some plates on request.
Gluten-free options: Good selection — many dishes are naturally gluten-free, and servers know which plates can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The moody lighting, shareable plates, and design-forward setting create intimacy without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible on weekdays, but risky on show nights. For pre-Pantages dinners, reservations are highly recommended—walk-ins often face long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. Older kids and teens do fine, but the menu skews adventurous and the vibe is adult-leaning; there are no specific amenities for young children.
Best For
Better for: A stylish, Mediterranean small-plates experience near Hollywood & Vine with a private room ideal for pre-show groups and curated coursed menus.
Skip if: You want a fast, casual meal, a long menu of familiar comfort dishes, or a space suited for very young children.