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Tuning Fork
Master Critic Review
Tuning Fork
7.9
Cozy gastropub tucked on Ventura Place serving California craft beers and seasonal comfort food with Buddhist, Caribbean, and Moroccan influences. The intimate space features skylights, heavy wooden tables, and occasional live music creating a neighborhood gathering spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom Truffle Burger, Marrakech Meatballs, Jerk Chicken
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Hidden gastropub blending global flavors with craft beer expertise
Who should go: Adults seeking gastropub vibe; no children under 7 after 7pm
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for family dining; late nights for music
What to order: Mushroom truffle burger, Brussels sprouts, Marrakech meatballs
Insider tip: Call ahead late evening as kitchen closes up to one hour early
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ventura Place and nearby streets - typically available but can be tight during dinner hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual gastropub attire - jeans and nice tops work perfectly. This is a neighborhood spot, not a dress-up destination.
Noise level: Moderate to moderately loud - conversation-friendly during meals, louder when live music is playing. Intimate space amplifies sound.
Weekend wait: 15-30 minutes for walk-ins typical, longer if live music scheduled. Reservations recommended after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait - good for drop-in dining
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - solid options including Brussels sprouts, veggie burgers, and globally-inspired small plates with Buddhist influences
Vegan options: Limited but available - kitchen can modify dishes given the diverse flavor profiles. Call ahead for best experience.
Gluten-free options: Some options available - burger can be served without bun, naturally gluten-free small plates. Not a dedicated GF kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for the right vibe - cozy and intimate with craft beer selection creates relaxed conversation setting. Skip if they prefer quiet romance, as space gets lively. Best for beer enthusiasts or adventurous eaters who appreciate global flavors.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes before 6pm and weekday lunches. Dinner walk-ins possible but expect 15-30 minute waits on weekends. Check if live music is scheduled - those nights fill up and reservations are essential.
Is it kid-friendly? Family-friendly before 7pm with standard kids' options. After 7pm, no children under 7 allowed - this shifts to adult gastropub atmosphere with louder music and bar energy. Best for families with kids during lunch or early dinner.
What's the alcohol situation? Craft beer focused with excellent California brewery selection - this is a beer lover's spot. Wine and cocktails available but beer is the star. Full bar service.
How long should I plan to spend here? 60-90 minutes typical for full meal. Kitchen can close up to an hour early on slower nights, so call ahead if arriving after 9pm to avoid disappointment.
Best For
Better for: Tuning Fork excels at adventurous comfort food with global twists (Buddhist, Caribbean, Moroccan influences) in an intimate neighborhood setting. Choose this over standard gastropubs if you want unique flavor combinations, craft beer expertise, and a cozy hideaway vibe rather than a buzzy scene. The eclectic menu and occasional live music create a more distinctive experience than cookie-cutter American comfort spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want quiet conversation all night (gets loud with music), need extensive wine selection over beer, prefer predictable American classics without global influences, or are dining with young children after 7pm. Also skip if you're on a tight schedule - kitchen's early closing unpredictability requires planning.