Mirabelle on Sunset: Standing the Test of Time

Changing with the times, while staying true to their roots, Mirabelle on Sunset has remained a West Hollywood staple since 1971. Family owned and operated from day one, Mirabelle offers their customers an American Bistro menu, infused with a West Coast twist.  By focusing on tasty fresh ingredients served in a comfortable atmosphere, George and Lenore Germanides have outlasted the many fads they’ve seen come and go on the Sunset Strip.

 

The History of Mirabelle
Today, Mirabelle is run by both George and Lenore, as well as their children, Justine and Damon who are involved in the restaurant’s day-to-day operations, but thirty-seven years ago it seemed as if the Germanides would never open their doors. Visiting L.A. on their honeymoon, George and Lenore discovered a hamburger stand called Alfie’s and decided it was their future. Unfortunately the restaurant wasn’t for sale at that time, but a year later, after cruising down Sunset Blvd, George discovered the eatery was available. The newlyweds bought the stand, transformed it into Mirabelle and the rest, as they say is history.

While the décor has changed, a special events room has been added and the menu has been updated to reflect the current tastes of the day, like pesto crusted salmon and baby lamb chops, the original classic dishes, such as 18-hour short ribs and mouthwatering steaks have remained the same.

The Chef
Keeping with the traditional, while bringing in fresh ideas, Mirabelle recently introduced their new Executive Chef, Joe Anguiano, who brings with him international culinary experience and a love of fresh California ingredients.

"I want to create simple dishes with overwhelming flavor that our clients can appreciate and not be intimidated by – it’s about approachable cuisine," says Anguiano. "Using only the freshest foods found at local farmer markets, I want to bring together the best ingredients that will deliver the best flavors."

Anguiano’s career has allowed him to work on both coasts under legendary chefs including Michael Cimarusti at L.A.’s Water Grill and Chef Remi Lauvand at Montrachet in New York City. After conquering the U.S., he tackled Europe where he sharpened his culinary skills in France and at Zuberoa in San Sebastian. Other fine establishments Anguiano has worked in include, Bistro 45 in Pasadena and Le Cirque in New York City.

Of bringing Anguiano on as Executive Chef, owner George Germanides stated, "We are thrilled to have Joe join the Mirabelle family. His worldly experience and his talent with fresh, California ingredients will help make the restaurant a unique destination for all customers. His passion for food is expressed in every dish he makes, and we look forward to introducing many new dishes to our customers under his kitchen direction."

The Menu
Mirabelle’s classic bistro menu includes plates made from seasonal organic farmer’s market finds, creating simple California cool cuisine.  Guests can begin their meal with a Classic Crab BisquBee, Mirabelle Chopped Salad or Farmer’s Market Beet Salad, and  enjoy Fresh Market Oysters, Shrimp Cocktail or a Fresh Seafood Platter from the Raw Bar. Other appetizers include Dungeness Crab Cake, Crispy Atlantic Calamari, Pizza Margarita and Ahi Tuna Tartar.

When it comes to the main course, patrons can select from mouthwatering options including Crispy Gnocchi, Open Faced Veal Stew Lasagna or Butternut Squash Ravioli. If seafood is more to the guest’s liking, they can decide between Wild Scottish Salmon, East Coast Monk Fish or Organic Shetland Cod. Of course the traditional Filet Mignon, Angus Smoked Rib Eye and Braised Veal Shank is available to dine on as well.

Happy Hour
What’s a stop on the Sunset Strip without a great happy hour? You won’t find out here, because Mirabelle offers amazing taste treats and cocktails at truly happy prices – $5.00 martini anyone?

From 4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. Monday – Sunday, Mirabelle presents their after work, or leisurely weekend crowd full portions of Italian and Greek inspired dishes and drinks at half price. Stop in  for their famous Meze Plate with beet tzatzki, hummus and goat cheese-avocado spread served with homemade pita for only $7.00 and top it off with Mirabelle’s Greek Martini consisting of vodka, feta cheese and stuffed olives, or house wine priced at $3.50 – $5.00.

 

Mirabelle also offers an Oyster Happy Hour where all Hama Hama, Blue Point, Fanny Bay and Kumomoto Oysters  are just $1.25. Other delicacies on the happy hour menu include Rock Shrimp with a Honey Wasabi Sauce ($7.00), Baby Artichokes with Aioli ($7.00) and the Short Rib Cubes ($5.50), which have been on the menu since the doors opened in 1971 and remain a patron favorite.

Listen to the Owner
As George Germanides himself says, "We offer so many wonderful dishes at such an affordable price that it is the best place to come relax, have a drink and a nice meal!"

Mirabelle is located at 8768 Sunset Blvd, in West Hollywood.  For more information please visit www.mirabelleonsunset.com or call (310) 659-6022.