Verse

4212 Lankershim Blvd, Toluca Lake
(818) 747-2135

Recent Reviews

Nikki C

Wow, wow, wow! From the minute we were greeted by the doorman and we entered the beautiful space, we knew we were in for a treat. And in the VALLEY, no less! What a gem. The nightclub vibe and attention to detail were what we noticed first. We really appreciated the seamless, knowledgable, and friendly attentiveness of the waitstaff. The music was spot-on. We wish the sets could've been a little longer but I'm sure there's a reason they weren't. Because it feels there is a reason for EVERYTHING here. The cocktails were delicious and perfectly balanced (Mezcal Negroni and Toluca Sunrise). And the food! Milk buns are a must. I could've made a meal of the roasted corn - creamy, flavorful deliciousness. Lamb pasta, crushed potato and the New York were perfect. A second bread option would be nice to eat with the mains. Wish we'd saved room for dessert! Next time. Because there will DEFINITELY be a next time.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jonathan Modrow

It's like getting transported into a new reality. My wife and I don't enjoy date night often, but this was potentially the best meal and night out we've ever had, if not top five.Step into the non descript masonry building on the street, and you are instantly taken to a carefully curated symphony of warm lighting, an engineered and organic soundscape, and a mouthwatering collection of smells making you wonder how much of this menu can I ingest over the next couple hours.We were asked if we wanted to be close to the music. I, perhaps too quickly, enthusiastically replied, "Yes!" They led us to a two top at the front that could have easily sat four. The seats were very comfortable and side by side, equally romantic and allowing full view of the trio, with plenty of workspace to make a heavy dent in the menu and a brass table lamp casting a warm glow over the blank canvas where Chef's and Bartender's artistry will be displayed. We were instantly concerned, however, noticing a drum kit not 10 feet away from us. Then the music started... Guitarist, bassist, and drummer wove covers of American standards from the 60s and 70s to current times, playfully and with perfect tone and timing. They were clearly enjoying each other so much it felt like you were invited into the jam session of band members who hadn't seen each other in a while but were ripping old favorites like no time had passed. And the drums we were so worried about... understated, magical, perfect, and non imposing. Like a jazz drummer, her head, shoulders, and countenance were calm, breezy almost, while hands to elbows were a blur of perfect geometrical movement. The timing and tones were perfect, while the amplitude was just not loud. Perfect...Looking up, you'll notice every table is mic'ed. You'll also notice that though being close to the table next to you on 3 or four sides, you can't hear their conversation. You can hear the warm murmur of people enjoying each other, but you can't hear them, and they can't hear you. Each table is its own pocket of private experience while not obscuring the view of the artistry in front of you. Through the music and murmur, your conversation will be at a regular conversational volume. I've never experienced anything like it. Apparently, the microphones pick up the sound at your table so the speakers (which are invisible, by the way) at the next table can cancel your conversation... mind blown... This is a testament to how much attention to detail ownership had while devising this experience.The wine list is encyclopedic and carefully assembled. The food menu is equally carefully composed, adding another instrument, a first chair, or a lead singer to the experience. Visuals, sounds, and even temperature (because we couldn't feel it) were attended to gracefully with effortless intention. Chef and Bar, with commanding presence towards taste and aroma, did not disappoint, rather provided a litany of surprises, riffs, and solos. The descriptions on the menu don't provide justice to the mix of influence and care towards ingredients. For example, the croquettes take you from French origins to El Slavador and Honduran homes of the papusa. The menu doesn't say there is masa in the bites, but it's there providing a worldview and connection, almost a throw down ending in a delicious stalemate of who makes the most delectable pockets of unctuous flavor in the world. It's like an Iron Chef dance battle where they were working on the same dish. The raw dishes were bouncy, subtle, acidic at the right times, sweet as a counterpoint and equally soulful. I've been to Michelin restaurants where I left fed and lighter in the wallet. This was 100 times better as each sensory element was a component to a sort of personal jazz my wife and I were experiencing together. There is no eww... no ick... even the knives get a wooden cut riser, a kickstand if you will, so the business end doesn't accidentally touch anything it shouldn't, whether

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Hibachi Octopus, Oysters & Sashimi, Ora King Salmon, Hokkaido Milk Buns, Bone Marrow Salsa

Askia Underwood

Updated: My husband surprised me with reservations to see La Verdad, one of the most phenomenal bands you will see live. The food was incredible, we sat at the perfect table in the middle of the restaurant, just 3 steps from the lead singer. The sound is so incredible in this place, I got up and danced until my feet were numb. I loved every second of our time here. A must, must, absolute must. Go on any night. The live performances are A++++++Very exclusive VIP dinner and live recording listening experience. Had an 845 reservation. Doorman would not let us in for 45 mins saying there wasn't room. Our table was wide open when we walked in. Thankfully we were guests of the owner who came out to get us. Food was divine. Came out slowly during the show. Terrace Martin, Kamasi Washington, Alex Isley, Robert Glasper 10 yards away was contemporary jazz heaven. If you are ever invited, go!!! You never know who you're going to see..

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Arianna

Absolutely amazing! A friend and I came in for a birthday dinner and Verse made it such a special night. The food was very tasty and innovative. I highly recommend the croquettes and the yellowtail crudo- some of the best I’ve had! Not only was the food great but the staff as well. The hostess Olivia was so sweet and friendly leading us to our table. She made us feel so welcomed and set a great first impression of the restaurant. The sommelier Matias was also amazing! He was so knowledgeable about wines/champagne and gave us the most fantastic recommendations. The desert wine he recommended was so delicious paired with the olive oil cake. This restaurant is definitely a gem in LA and a must try!

John Sanders

As an audio professional, this place was the best. The sound really is great inside. Nice band, really fantastic food, and excellent service. Our server was super friendly and helpful, and our Somme took us on a journey to find the perfect pairing. The clientele is well dressed and trendy without being ridiculous. The velvet rope outside is a little silly, but other than that this place is a winner.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jesse Cohen

One of the best cocktails I’ve ever had. And a huge wine list. Milk buns are light and delicious. Definitely recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Hokkaido Milk Buns

Lisa Sedares

Incredible food, love the vibe and the live music. Staff also was really helpful and nice.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Mediterranean Octopus, Oysters & Sashimi, Seared Albacore Tostada, Aged Yellowtail Crudo

Catie Heckel

The service was top notch, all of our servers were informative about the food and friendly. The atmosphere is dark line and good speakeasy should be with a live instrumental trio, but you could still hold a conversation with your date without yelling. The food was uneven, the starters (buns and tiger prawns) were incredible, the dessert (cookies and cream) was surprisingly full of flavor and delicious. The wagyu steak was good but not melt in your mouth amazing, which is what I want when I get a steak at a restaurant. The pork belly was the most bland item we had, but my husband still enjoyed eating it. Overall a great place for drinks and small bites.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Hokkaido Milk Buns

CT Davis

I was curious to see what they meant by "Angeleno" cuisine so we went there a few days ago. What it seems to mean is that they lean into seasonality for produce while taking inspiration from the numerous food cultures in and around LA to good effect. The menu is focused and delicious with surprising elements and hints of exotic recipes tailored to accommodate fresh seasonal produce. There wasn't anything we didn't like. The dining room is one large, high-cieling space designed to feature the live music played regularly with the founder's wall of sound engineer Grammys set proudly behind the small stage. Turns out fine dining pairs well with good music. We knew that already, of course, but Verse was intended to see how far that idea could go. Worth a try for sure.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

J. “Caro” Martínez

I recommend it for music lovers.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Gabriele Guarnieri

Quality comes at a price. And there's plenty of it here. The venue is beautiful, the musical atmosphere excellent. Young people, but ok service.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Justyn McGrigor

Uniquely LA….. great music, food and atmosphere. Such a treat to be able to converse with your friends over dinner without having to yell over the music!Highly recommend…..

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Rochelle

We were visiting a friend and Verse was recommended. So glad we got to have this wonderful experience. The whole evening was a vibe (from the music, the display of the Grammy's, the food and cocktails). Our server Benji was outstanding (very knowledgeable, personable and friendly). I will definitely visit again next time I'm in LA

JessicaS

Gold Digger cocktail was beautiful and the chocolate bitters added a nice taste. Forgot the name but the Hibiscus cocktail was refreshing. The MAAD City was a nice final cocktail for the night.

Eric Williams

Had the very best PASTRAMI SANDWICH at reasonable price. I be back again today!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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