Canal Club   

2025 Pacific Ave
Venice, CA 90291
310-823-3878
www.jamesbeach.com/canal_index.php

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Not satisfied with just one hip Venice eatery and nightspot, James Evans has created another one right across from his James Beach -- and Sharon Stone has already been in. Canal Club bursts with color -- it's the same space that housed Rebecca's -- not only in the interior but on the menu. Celebrated Venice artist Billy Al Bengston's painting and design enliven the place, as do painter and restaurant partner Daniel Samako's works.None other than chef Michael Roberts (of Trumps fame) heads up the kitchen, producing a fun, adventurous menu that's nearly impossible to summarize. In short, it's an international mix of highbrow "beach cuisine," which in translation, means lots of seafood and Mediterranean dishes. There are starters like finnochio (fennel) salad with Greek olives and feta, and skewers of duck liver, Chinese sausage and figs; entrees range from Hawaiian ahi poki to baby-back ribs with honey-tamarind glaze and red cabbage. There's also a sushi/oyster bar and caviar by the ounce.The serious wine list includes wondrous bottles that Samako has bought at auction, some of which are offered at unbelievable prices.