the agency dinner

 

EPOCH'S FIRST AGENCY DINNER CIRCA 1956

(that's David Ogilvy in the back with the Eraserhead hairdo)

There is a long tradition on nearly every commercial project of the production company inviting the agency out for a fancy schmancy dinner. I'm not that sociable so it's always a bit awkward. Sometimes I don't even think the agency wants to spend any more time with us than necessary. Other times, it can be a nice bonding experience before shooting. Truth is, we want to schmooze them and they want to be schmoozed. And, all over a very expensive meal. 

Rather than using this post to dissect the psychology behind the ritual or share old war stories, I decided to spare anyone embarrassment and keep it simple. My top 5 agency dinner spots in Los Angeles.

I have compiled this list based on a few specific categories:  quality of food, atmosphere and most importantly location. If you live in LA, you understand the value of geographical convenience. All the restaurants on my list are within a 10 minute drive from either my office (Beverly Hills ) or home (Venice).

5. Gjelina - This new spot is right on Abbott Kinney and Millwood. Walking distance from my house. There is a great outdoor space in the back where they can accommodate tables of 8 or more. The menu is nouve Italian tapas with small plates, pizzas and interesting salads. Great for sharing especially with a large group. Also, its a hot spot for Venice hipsters.

4. Mr Chows - A Beverly Hills institution. There are two reasons this makes the list. You don't have to order. Ask the waiter to bring out all the classic dishes for the table and keep them coming until everyone is full. The other reason. Guaranteed star sighting. High marks when there are young creatives who are virgins to the LA shooting experience.

3. Wolfgangs - This steak place opened up about a year ago in downtown BH. Do not confuse it with Wolfgang Puck. It is actually named after Wolfgang Zweiner, former maitre d' at Peter Luger's in Brooklyn. It's the same formula as Luger's just cleaner. Start with martini's and scotch. Get the sliced tomato and onion salad. Porterhouse for the table along with all the classic sides. The pecan pie for dessert is a must. Everyone leaves happy except the weirdo vegan art director. 

2. Via Venetto - This is a small Italian restaurant on Main Street in Santa Monica. The food is excellent. They also have an amazing wine list. What I really like is there is separate loft room for big parties. It's intimate and feels like a private party.

1. Jar -This is right on the edge of my agency dinner zone. Just a classic LA restaurant. Good vibe. Good food. You can have a conversation. They have round tables that fit groups of 8. Never had a bad meal there. Get there early for a cocktail and the homemade potato chips.

A couple of special mentions. Campanile is outside my location parameters for this list but grilled cheese night is fun for the whole family. For my friends at Media Arts Lab, we love Sushi Zo. Omakase menu. The place has about 7 tables so it's for the under 5 person meal. Good for the repeat business. 

I have to throw in some wisdom from my esteemed colleague, John Duffin. Get their early before anyone else shows up. Pre-order some appetizers for the table so when everyone sits down food is available. Crack open a few bottles of select red wine to let them breathe. And, keep the conversation going. Know one does that better than Chiefy, the master of the agency dinner.

What are your favorites? I need to expand my horizons. I may even be willing to go as far East as La Brea.