Set the Scene
Situated on a stretch of West 3rd street that gets plenty of foot and car traffic, the newly opened Régalade delivers the charm of a French bistro in an intimate setting. Designed by owners Jocelyn Bulow and Alessandro Iacobelli, the restaurant pays homage to classic Parisian eateries, with a buzzing patio and rows of tables and leather banquettes inside. Fresh oysters, scallops, and prawns are plucked from a display that sits behind the lively zinc-topped bar, while antique mirrors and nautical wall drawings continue the oceanic theme.
Regalade can’t help but be romantic, too—it is French, after all. Soft hued ambient lighting and closely positioned seating evoke the true spirit of European streetside dining. “We want people to walk in and immediately know they’re in the right place, in a neighborhood spot. Grab a seat, order a glass of wine, order some oysters, feel comfortable staying as long as they want,” says Bulow.
What the Food is Like
Chef James LaLonde sources seafood from around the world, including hamachi from Japan, mussels and oysters from Prince Edward Island, squid from Monterey Bay, oysters from Morro Bay, and blue prawns from France. These lighter bites fare well as a starting off point before delivering into the richer and creamier dishes, including piping hot mussels that cradle white wine and bits of garlic, a macaroni and cheese layered with the buttery salinity of comté cheese speckled with black truffle oil, and a brie fondue that straddles the line of savory and sweet, thanks to an earthy lavender honey and mellowed out garlic confit.
There’s also a good number of quintessential bistro classics to try, including a roasted duck confit served with escarole, a pan-seared trout atop a silky beurre blanc sauce, and a wagyu steak frites that can be accompanied by one of three holy trinity French sauces: béarnaise, bordelaise, or au poivre. Also true to bistro standards are the prices here, with most dishes (even larger plates) falling under $40–rare in this part of town.
Let’s Talk About the Drinks
The wine list here makes nods to well-known regions like Champagne, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Sancerre, but diners can also delve into bottles from lesser-known regions such as Jura, Savoie, Corsica, and the Sud-Ouest. A house cocktail house cocktail made with cognac, green Chartreuse, and sweet vermouth provides a memorable mouthfeel of warmth and fresh-cut herbs.
Final Thoughts
Régalade’s menu, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, and intimate space makes it easy to see why the classic French bistro can quickly become a weekly ritual.
Fast Facts
Location: 8136 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Cuisine: French
The Vibe: East meets West with Beijing-inspired design in lively bar and seating areas.
Our Favorite Thing on the Menu: A crackling duck confit with a punchy port reduction and cherry sauce.
Pricing: $$
Reservation: Reservations can be made through Resy
Standout dishes: Scallops with a yuzu vinaigrette, mussels in a shallot, garlic, cream and white wine sauce, pan-seared trout in beurre blanc sauce
Attire: Casual
Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Los Angeles, California, United States
