Don’t think of Westwood, home to UCLA, as just a college community with cheap eats for starving students. With the opening of Wolfsglen, it’s now a premier dining and drinking destination offering first-rate culinary and cocktail choices.
According to the powers that be, Wolfsglen offers New American cuisine with a global Angeleno influence.
Inspired by the legacy of John Wolfskill, a former state senator and pioneer rancher who played a pivotal role in the development of the land where Westwood Village now stands, Wolfsglen boldly blends history, culture, and cuisine into a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Step into Wolfsglen and you’ll be taken by the historic two-story building developed in the 1930s, which showcases beautiful high ceilings, modern design, a lush patio for al fresco dining, and private event spaces.
During our recent visit for dinner, we started with the hearty Bone Marrow & Black Garlic with herb salad and served with corn tortillas. Sometimes I feel like bone marrow has been played out but then you get a dish like this one and you remember why it was such a standout starter for so many years. We shared it but I wished I could have indulged all on my own. Other delectable dishes include Hummus with chili crisps; Burrata with grilled and flambé peaches; Mushroom Arancini; Shrimp Toast; Steak Tartare; and Shawarma (roasted lamb leg) with homemade pita bread, among others.
And don’t sleep on Wolfsglen's bar program as it offers a diverse range of balanced and playful cocktails. Signature creations include the Razz-Mez-Tazz made with mezcal, mango, spicy bitter, agave and Tajin; Purple Rain with gin, blueberry purée, lemon, and butterfly pea flower; Geisha’s Kiss with Masumi sparkling sake, elderflower liqueur, and lychee purée; and Black Gold prepared with Neft vodka, simple syrup, cucumbers, and activated charcoal. Wolfsglen also offers white wine, red wine, rosé, sparking, and beer and cider.
Handmade Pastas take center stage at Wolfsglen and we absolutely loved the Cacio e Pepe with bucatini (thick spaghetti-like pasta), black pepper, parmesan and pecorino (Italian cheese made from sheep's milk).
While the Entrées menu boasts mouthwatering selections such as Steak Frites; Wolfsglen Burger with candied bacon, spicy aioli, and arugula; Roast Chicken with aji verde and pea tendrils; we opted for the Pan Roasted Pork Chop with a togarashi-whiskey glaze, and the Seared Salmon served with a pineapple ginger glaze and miso potato purée.
The pork chop is a hearty and heavenly option, while the seared salmon is light and sensational. It’s a great healthy option if you don’t want to opt for complete decadent dining.
And if you manage to leave room for dessert, you will not be disappointed. Decadent dessert means delicious dining done right.
Fans of a solid happy hour will want to experience Howlin’ Hour every Tuesday through Friday from 2pm to 6pm as well as Late-Night Howlin’ Hour every Friday and Saturday from 11pm to 12:30am.
Wolfsglen is located at 1071 Glendon Avenue in Westwood. Open daily. Call 310-208-1071.
Story By Jose Martinez
Photos 5, and 6 By Tonelson
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