Lately, Los Angeles seems to be a bit fascinated with conjuring up Nantucket on the West Coast. What feels like a down home clambake- in West Hollywood- is also one of the toughest reservations in town, where critically acclaimed chef Michael Cimarusti- chef/owner of the exquisite Providence which is considered the finest restaurant in LA- serves up sea-centric deliciousness at his latest spot Connie & Ted’s. One of the year’s most anticipated debuts, Cimarusti serves up simply prepared fish and shellfish inspired by the classic clam shacks, oyster bars, and fish houses that dot the New England Seaboard as well as the West Coast.
Focusing on classic seafood preparations of his youth, Cimarusti opened this reimagined clam shack in June, and named it for his grandparents who had immigrated from England to Rhode Island, where his obsession with fish was ignited while spending summers with his fisherman grandfather. A seafood savant and advocate of both sustainable fishing practices and marine life conservation not only makes Cimarusti well respected in the food community, but his sensational crustaceans may just be the freshest and most delectable quality you will find in LA. The casual interior is as authentic as it gets- although the outdoor patio does face Santa Monica Blvd, not swanky Newport- and no detail was overlooked.
The best way to experience Connie & Ted’s, in my opinion, is to snag a seat at the proper raw bar that is rocking with lobsters, 16 varieties of oysters, and mounds of clams. Let the very knowledgeable- and adorable- servers lead you on a feast that includes 3 kinds of chowder, lobster rolls, fried fish sandwiches, fish stew, steamers, or catch-of-the-day grilled fish. I seemed to have been channeling a Brit that night as I opted for fried calamari, and fish & chips- temporary insanity does happen- which was scrumptious while surprisingly clean… a real testament to Cimarusti’s kitchen talents. I am now hooked on Connie & Ted’s and can’t wait to make another visit to New England soon, except this trip will take a mere twenty minutes instead… without traffic, of course. www.connieandteds.com
