The Edison, Los Angeles Review

Located in Downtown LA, The Edison is tucked away down a back street, giving it that special intriguing feeling that you're in the know about something that's not in the mainstream. This is further reaffirmed when two smartly dressed doormen check you off the guest list as you arrive, we have visited The Edison a few times over the years and have always had a blast.

The building is incredible and holds a wealth of history and charm. It was LA's first private power plant, and still retains a lot of the architectural artefacts native to its period and use. It's more of a dinner and dance establishment than a straight dining experience. There is a strong focus on entertainment, with a huge stage and wall mounted speakers. The seating is casual, and the tables are small, but it is designed in such a way that all guests are able to have unrestricted views of the night’s entertainment.

As the night progresses the music gets louder, and the Edison comes alive. It was full of dancing guests in front of our table, and the atmosphere filled with fun and excitement. The service was efficient and the cocktails here are a must. The food was simple, but appropriate and combined with the entertainment our evening was a joy. You cannot help but look up at the tall ceilings, explore the different areas, and appreciate the fine architecture of the building, it's a wonderful building, well designed and laid out and a really unique space. One I'd happily return to.

We started the evening by sampling their cocktail menu. First I tried 'The Edison', mixed with Woodford Reserve Edison Barrel Bourbon, Pear Cognac, Lemon, and honey. While my partner enjoyed a 'Damasco Brasa', made with Cachaca, Apricot, Grapefruit and Grapefruit Bitters, with a little lemon zest twisted in. A delicious citrus drink, with strong alcohol tone.

Next up we ordered a 'Dead Mans Hand', comprising of Double Rye Whiskey, Brown Sugar, Sarsaparilla and Whiskey Barrell Bitters, with Orange Zest. The whiskey and sugar gave this cocktail a unique taste, and one I'd happily enjoy again. We also sampled the 'Southside Fizz', a simple yet lively cocktail made with Gin, Lime, Mint, and Soda.

"The Edison is a desirable venue to spend the evening."

Not being the type to stop when having a good time we ordered two more cocktails. I had a 'Pimms Cup', mixed with House made Pimms with a Gin Base, Lemon, Lime, Orange, Cucumber, and a hint of mint. Very refreshing with a smooth delivery of alcohol. While my partner had a 'Black Magic', mixed with Aged Rum, Averna, Luxardo, Apple Bitters, and Orange Zest.

To start I chose the Electric Squid, which came out served with Fresh Crisp Calamari with Garlic Chipotle Aioli, Cilantro, Honey Lime and Cocktail Sauces. A splendid sea food arrangement, the squid was divine. My partner had Pickled Vegetables, an assortment of fresh Pickled Vegetables with Lemon Dill Yogurt dip. The vegetables had a delicious flavoursome crunch.

To follow we had a serving of Ahi Tuna Tartar with Tomatoes, Pine Nuts, Tobiko, Chives, Aji Amarillo Aioli served on Artisanal Crostinis. A delicious dish with a range of flavours that complimented each other. We also sampled the Scottish Salmon Sashimi, with Fuji Apple, Avocado, Red Onion and Bonito Flakes in a Spicy Yuzu Sauce. Again, a well presented and thought out dish with delicious flavours.

The all-round experience makes The Edison a desirable venue to spend the evening. The entertainment was enjoyable, the food was on point, the service was friendly, and we will certainly be visiting again in the future.