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Linden
Master Critic Review
Linden
8.7
Linden channels New York comfort food through a Hollywood lens, pairing a moody, vintage-inspired dining room with chef-driven takes on burgers, shrimp and grits, and wagyu oxtail pie. It reads equal parts neighborhood hangout and destination dinner spot, with cocktails and storytelling plates that reward repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Linden burger with duck fat fries, Wagyu oxtail pie, Southern-style shrimp and grits
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Black-owned, New York-inspired spot weaving personal stories into elevated comfort food.
Who should go: Diners wanting cocktail-driven, modern comfort food with personality.
When to visit: Evening reservations for peak energy and full dinner menu.
What to order: Linden burger, wagyu oxtail pie, shrimp and grits.
Insider tip: Sit on the trellis-covered terrace if you want Sunset Boulevard energy without the noise.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Sunset is limited after 6pm; look for metered spots on side streets or use nearby paid lots ($8–$15) within a 2–3 minute walk.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; jeans are fine, but most guests opt for elevated tops, jackets, or going-out attire.
Noise level: Moderate—lively bar and dining room but quiet enough to maintain a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with plenty of open tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several comfort-leaning options available, including salads and customizable plates.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be adapted but not a dedicated focus.
Gluten-free options: Multiple plates can be made gluten-free; staff is accustomed to requests and can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The moody lighting, polished cocktails, and intimate tables create an atmosphere that feels both stylish and relaxed, ideal for making a strong first impression without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can, especially early evenings or late night, but prime weekend dinner slots fill up fast. Walk-ins should expect a short wait or consider sitting at the bar.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids or teens; the space skews adult with cocktails and mood lighting, and there’s no dedicated children’s menu.
Best For
Better for: Standout for elevated comfort food with a narrative, polished cocktails, and a vibey setting that works equally well for dates, group nights, or business meetups.
Skip if: If you want fast-casual pricing, strictly vegan menus, or very quiet dining, consider alternatives.