The Lincoln, located in Venice, Los Angeles, has quickly become a culinary hotspot. This blog post will provide a comprehensive review of The Lincoln's menu, exploring its offerings, pricing, and overall dining experience. We'll delve into what makes this restaurant stand out, examining both positive and negative aspects based on customer reviews and experiences. Understanding The Lincoln's menu is key to deciding if it's the right choice for your next meal in Venice.
The Lincoln's Menu: A Culinary Journey
The Lincoln's menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes that blend modern American cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The emphasis is clearly on high-quality ingredients and innovative preparation techniques. Let's break down the key sections of the menu:
Appetizers & Small Plates
The appetizer section offers a variety of options, perfect for sharing or as a starter before your main course. Expect to find creative takes on classic dishes, as well as unique offerings reflective of the chef's culinary vision. Examples often include:
- Oysters on the Half Shell: Freshly shucked oysters, usually sourced locally, with various mignonette sauces.
- Charcuterie Board: A curated selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a flavorful glaze. Frequently cited as a standout appetizer.
- Whipped Feta Dip: Creamy whipped feta served with pita bread or crudités.
The pricing for appetizers generally ranges from $12 to $20.
Main Courses
The main course selection at The Lincoln is quite diverse. While the exact offerings change seasonally, you can usually anticipate finding options like:
- Grilled Fish: Often featuring locally sourced fish, prepared with seasonal vegetables and a thoughtfully chosen sauce. Reviews consistently praise the freshness and quality.
- Pasta Dishes: Handmade pasta dishes with a variety of sauces, from classic aglio e olio to more innovative creations.
- Steak & Chops: High-quality cuts of meat, cooked to perfection, often served with rich sides. Expect to pay a premium for these dishes.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: The Lincoln typically includes several vegetarian and vegan main courses, ensuring a varied and inclusive menu. These options are often equally celebrated by diners.
Prices for main courses generally fall between $25 and $45, with some specialty dishes exceeding this range.
Desserts
The dessert menu at The Lincoln is often described as a sweet ending to a delightful meal. Past offerings have included:
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Featuring the freshest seasonal fruits in a delicate pastry shell.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: A classic dessert with a molten chocolate center.
- Ice Cream Selection: Locally sourced ice cream with unique flavors.
Drinks
The Lincoln boasts an extensive wine list, featuring both domestic and international selections. Cocktails are also a highlight, with creative and expertly crafted options. A selection of beers and non-alcoholic drinks is also available.
The Lincoln Reviews: What Customers Say
Online reviews for The Lincoln are generally very positive. Many praise the high quality of the ingredients, the innovative menu, and the excellent service. However, some negative comments exist, focusing mainly on:
- Pricing: Some customers find the pricing to be on the higher side, especially for the main courses.
- Noise Level: The restaurant can get quite noisy during peak hours.
- Wait Times: Reservations are highly recommended, and even with reservations, there might be a short wait.
Case Study: A Typical Diner Experience
Let's consider a hypothetical dinner at The Lincoln. A couple orders the charcuterie board ($18), the grilled salmon ($32), and the pasta special ($28). They add a bottle of wine ($50) and share a chocolate lava cake ($14). The pre-tax total comes to $142. Adding tax and tip brings the final bill to approximately $175. While expensive, many diners feel the quality of the food and experience justifies the cost.
Conclusion: Is The Lincoln Worth It?
The Lincoln offers a refined dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients and creative cuisine. While the pricing might be higher than some other restaurants in Venice, the overall positive reviews suggest that many diners find the experience worth the cost. If you're looking for a special occasion restaurant or simply a high-quality meal, The Lincoln is certainly worth considering. Remember to make a reservation! Checking the restaurant's official website or social media for the most up-to-date menu and pricing is also advisable, as selections often change seasonally.
