Cliff's Edge in Silverlake

Cliff's Edge is a hidden gem of a restaurant tucked away behind a parking lot along Sunset Blvd. I have lived in Silverlake for many years and I didn't know this place existed until early this year. From Sunset Blvd, you wouldn't believe that this was a restaurant because the building is dark grey with no windows AND no sign and is located right next door to a 99 Cent Store. Past the parking lot though, is this ornate doorway that once you walk through you are transported to a serene and lush garden setting.

I have eaten here four times this year with my fellow Travbuddies as well as with family and have decided to combine my experiences into one review.

Cliff's Edge has a standard menu, which is slightly different than the on-line, as well as a daily specials menu.

Pork Tenderloin on Frisee with Horseradish Bercy Sauce - The rich flavor of the pork tenderloin was complimented very well by slightly bitter flavored frisee greens and the spicy hint of horseradish in the sauce.

Grilled Filet Mignon with Gorgonzola & Port Sauce - The filet was cooked to just barely medium rare goodness and the sauce was smooth and mellowed out the flavor of the tangy cheese topping. The spinach and potato sides were just icing.

Polenta Cake with Forest Mushrooms & Shaved Reggiano - The polenta cake was crispy on the outside and smooth and creamy on the outside...just yummy. The mushrooms added an earthy garlicky flavor that made the whole appetizer YUMMY!

Crab Ravioli - The ravioli was bursting with crab. The broth that the raviolis were wading in had a slight lemon flavor. My only gripe about the dish was that the broth was not piping hot but luke warm.

Pork Chop in Mustard Seed Sauce - The pork chop was cooked perfectly so that the meat was still tender. The mustard seed sauce added a smooth spicyness and saltiness that matched well with the fatty meat. The onions went well with the pork as well. However the potato gratin was way too rich and cheesy and heavy.

Saffron Risotto with Shrimp and Scallops - The risotto was screaming with saffron flavor...which I loved. The shrimp and scallops were just OK because they were plainly seasoned with salt and pepper.

Ricotta Lemon Cheesecake - The cheesecake was very light which is a total contrast to your garden variety cheesecakes. The hint of lemon was delightful.

Tiramisu - The tiramisu was good but not fabulous. I did like how it was served though so I could see the layers of ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.

Poached Pear with Pomegranate Sauce and Mascarpone Ice Cream - The pear had a smooth texture. The mascarpone ice cream was slightly sweet and slightly tart and paired well with the poached pear. I don't remember the sauce.

Panna Cotta A Caramello - The panna cotta was delicate and slightly sweet. The caramel sauce made the dessert even more spoon licking good.

Coffee Ice Cream with Caramel and Mocha Sauce with Toasted Hazelnuts - The ice cream was good and I liked how the hazelnuts heightened the flavor of the ice cream while adding a good crunch.

Creme Brulee - This was just fabulous...the brulee was not too thick and I love hearing the cracking sound when you first dig into it. The custard was dotted throughout with vanilla beans...always a big plus with me!

The service is attentive...even more so during early dinner service...but overall great.

I love the food, ambiance, and the Reisling (forgot the name and vintage) at Cliff's Edge. I will ABSOLUTELY return to try more items from their menu maybe even venture there early on a Sunday for brunch.