Had a wine dinner with friends at Lazy Ox Canteen...one of my regular spots.
2002 Michel Colin-Deleger & Fils, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru, "Morgeot"...Very lively and floral. Elegant power. Minerality kept lingering on the palate.
1997 Ciacci Piccolomini D'Aragona, Brunello di Montalcino, "Vigna di Pianrosso"...From single vineyard Pianrosso. 1990 vintage is still my favorite of this wine, but 1997 is also great, and still very young!
2001 Giuseppe Cortese, Barbaresco, "Rabaja"...Cortese's signature wine. Slightly closed nose, but the floral aroma was still coming out. Subtle spice, dry flower, mild tannins, long finish.
Among so many dishes we had, I especially liked spot prawns, razor clams, and sardine. Also, I ate their rice pudding for the first time (I normally get too full by the time dessert was offered, so I never had a chance until this time), and it was really yummy.
Next morning, I found out that there is a farmers market at Bank of America Plaza every Friday, so I went there to check it out! Between the high-rise buildings were some rows of tents, filled with fresh produce and other stuff. I bought 3 pounds of heirloom tomatoes, 3 pounds of vine-ripe tomatoes, corn, greens, and so much more...they were so heavy.
But, I kept walking and found a new modern Peruvian take-out place called, Chimu, right at the courtyard of Grand Central Market, across from the famous Angels Flight Railway on Hill St. I actually met one of the owners of Chimu at Lazy Ox the previous night, so I wanted to check it out! He was there and I ordered his recommendations.
Ceviche was so plump and fresh. (I forgot which fish it was, but they use market-fresh fish of the day.) Then, I also had Estofado de Lengua (braised beef tongue). It was also excellent! The tongue was cut into small cubes and cooked to fork tender with cherry tomatoes, peas, etc., and served with creamy quinoa. The sauce tasted so deep yet not heavy. It was one of the best stewed tongue dishes I've had! Chimu's Blue Corn Tea was nicely refreshing with a hint of sweetness. It was a wonderful meal, and I want to go back there over and over.
From Chimu, I started walking again and found a new wine shop, BUZZ, at the corner of Spring and 5th. It's a very stylish place with nice eclectic selection of wine and beer. Local delivery is only $2.95 for any amount (minimum $15 order)...until 2am! That's super cool.
More LA Downtown shots are coming later.
