With the demise of Granita and Giorgio’s in Malibu, that area no longer offers a reason for a somewhat lesser trek…… unless you are still enthralled with a seal barking or a baby dolphin frolicking.

I’ve never understood why dolphins always frolic. Do they know what is going on in the world?

Thus the extremely over hyped and overpriced Nobu, plus the other  tourist traps on  PCH, Moonshadows, The Chart House, Dukes, Beau Rivage and those nameless but arrogant Italian joints in the local strip marts, should generally, all  be assiduously avoided.

 If you are still suffering salt air or ocean drive withdrawal symptoms, try the Italian casual Allegria,  ½ mile south of the pier on the left side of PCH or Googie’s for breakfast or lunch. It is in the same shopping center where Granita was located.

Further, it must be admitted that the recent explosion of excellent dining choices along with the established old timers (at least 20 in all) from Agoura to Newbury Park is a valid reason for not wasting  gas, oil or time. This is especially true with the local abundance of authentic Sushi Bars.Think  Sushi Yusho, Ori Sushi and Kaminari.      However …......

He understands the importance of quality meats for his BBQed meals. He buys only the best in an array of hickory smoked choices, all of which he then dry hand rubs with special seasoning and grills over red oak with home made BBQ sauce, on the side. This separates it from the over-sauced stuff you usually get in most local joints which is designed to hide the poor quality and flavor of the meat drowning below.

The portions are GIGANTIC. There is a firm charge of $4 for splitting and it may be the best $4 you ever spent. There is easily enough for two on the oversized, beautiful, designer plates brought to the table. and that includes wonderful appetizers.

I ordered succulent, steamed mussels ($12) in a magnificent chorizo broth. I shared half the mussels and broth with others at the table and still could not come close to finishing in anticipation of the main course. Spectacular Smoked Duck Spring Rolls ($11) come with a Spicy Red Cabbage Salad and for many would be considered a main course.  Pulled Pork  Dumplings ($9) with Cole Slaw and a BBQ Buerre Blanc are a Robins original.

It seems, however, that most Boneyard Bistro regulars do not split. Maybe they share.  In all my observations, I saw smiling ladies strolling out the door. The reason was obvious. They were all carrying a doggy bag (usually large) that contained an authentic… gourmet…. complete BBQ dinner .......and more for dinner the next night. Why bother to cook??? 

Don't overlook  Robins’ Bistro menu at the  Boneyard.  And for many of you..... it may be even more exciting. His beautifully presented Porcini Crusted Salmon ($23) with Swiss chard, truffled mashers, shitake nage and wild mushroom ragout is cooked moistly slightly rare. It would be $40 at the overrated L’Orangerie,..... if they were able to keep a chef on the premises long enough to learn how to cook it.  

When looking at  the menu seek the pork chop ($26 but easily enough for 2)) in two styles on one plate, one bone in, the other in  pulled pork egg rolls also stuffed with collard greens.

There is also the now ubiquitous “Kobe” burger ($18 and worth it. See below for comments. There is more as the menu changes often along with daily specials.

Bluntly, Robins and his “Yard” are almost too good to believe. He is out among ‘em,  checking the room while relying strongly on his well trained Sous Chef Luis Alvarez. His young, amiable staff  works smoothly together better than the current Lakers dream about.

 The wine list is truly 21st century globalized, featuring wonderful values from Australia and New Zealand along with Napa and European selections. It is also heavy on Zinfandels which Robins justifiably feels is perfect for BBQ. Prices are very fair. Corkage is $12.

If there is a slight wait for a table, very competent Captain Mike offers a sip of wine. The plates and presentation measure up to some of the great tables at upscale casual restaurants. The  room is warmly designed featuring a full wine wall. But, it is  tightly seated and somewhat noisy when crowded (which is most of the time). As an option, you can sit  outside on the enclosed, heated street patio which is somewhat distracting but quiet.

Robins absolutely goes out of his way to be honest and customer friendly. His above mentioned Kobe Burger is defined as “American”. Every other restaurant that I have been to over the last few years has led you to believe that the steaks and burgers are from Japan to justify high prices. None of it was true. Just now, beef from Japan  is being allowed back into the United States.  Just Now!!!

You even get a lollipops with the bill.

Boneyard Bistro

13539 Ventura Blvd  Sherman Oaks (Use Woodman Off- Ramp)        818-906-7427 

       Most Credit Cards                  Valet Parking $3.50  (But Street Parking is Possible) 

                      Reservations Are Usually Needed     Takeout (No Delivery) 

Wine and Beer Only           Closed Monday          Open For Dinner Only the Other Days

Frankly Noted

Le Cafe appears to have completed the remodeling of its dining rooms and outside patio.  It is one of the most pleasant inside-outside dining areas in the county. Service is also very cheerful and friendly.   We intend to do a full review in the very near future.  Meanwhile if you try it out , give us your report. We depend upon our readers for a lot of insight and suggestions.