Firefly Restaurant in Studio City (Score: 7)

Location: 11720 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

Firefly, on a fun section of Studio City’s Ventura Blvd, is a highly-touted spot in the burgeoning restaurant scene out here. It’s equal parts bar and restaurant, although the menu is that of a serious food establishment. Past the understated and unbranded front door sits the sophisticated cocktail bar with a few stools and high-top tables. Tacked onto this section is this library-like drink room with small tables and book shelves lining the walls. Once past the bar and library section, you’re greeted by a beautiful vaulted glass-ceilinged dining room. In fact, to call it a room is really insufficient. It’s more of a patio, or something like that. Dimly lit, romantic, chic. All the right things for a nice night out on the town.

The food menu is straightforward. Our appetizers (arugula salad, Little Gem salad, meatballs) came out quickly and tasted fresh and good. The entree section of the menu is very straightforward. In fact, if anything, I’d say it’s limited. I ordered Jidori chicken, which was a small portion of slightly above-average chicken, and Brussels sprouts, which were good. The entrees took a while to come out, and since the chicken wasn’t that good, I felt a bit disappointed in the meal.

Firefly is one of those places that looks so good that you expect a certain level of deliciousness in the food they serve. Unfortunately, in my opinion, the kitchen didn’t hold up its end of the bargain. Despite that, Firefly remains an elite cocktail, wine, and appetizer experience. If that’s what you’re after, look no further. But if you’re in need of a hearty meal, look elsewhere.