Buggy Whip

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7420 La Tijera Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90045

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(310) 645-7131
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Buggy Whip - Los Angeles, CA
Buggy Whip - Los Angeles, CA
Buggy Whip - Los Angeles, CA
Buggy Whip - Los Angeles, CA
Buggy Whip - Los Angeles, CA
Buggy Whip - Los Angeles, CA
Reviews
( 8 )
( 6 )
( 6 )
( 8 )
( 6 )

Best

When I go out to eat, I expect to pay a lot for my meal. I also expect to get a lot of food for that money. I'm a bit of a foodie and only want the best. Well, this place did deli...

Worst

so i ate here once because my boyfriend was flying out of lax and we were going to be really early to the airport. i thought it was a nice place and would be romantic beofre he l...

Great Place!! 7/26/2011

When I go out to eat, I expect to pay a lot for my meal. I also expect to get a lot of food for that money. I'm a bit of a foodie and only want the best. Well, this place did deliver a great meal that I really enjoyed, only the portion was so small that I left feeling hungry still. The price wasn't worth the meal. However, the ambiance is very nice. more

Great Place!! 7/26/2011

When I go out to eat, I expect to pay a lot for my meal. I also expect to get a lot of food for that money. I'm a bit of a foodie and only want the best. Well, this place did deliver a great meal that I really enjoyed, only the portion was so small that I left feeling hungry still. The price wasn't worth the meal. However, the ambiance is very nice. more

pricey even if you're near the airport 3/20/2011

so i ate here once because my boyfriend was flying out of lax and we were going to be really early to the airport. i thought it was a nice place and would be romantic beofre he left, but then the food wasn't so good and it was really expensive. his steak was super tough. even the bread was just ok. for a few bucks you can eat at kfc, so i'd skip it. more

pricey even if you're near the airport 3/20/2011

so i ate here once because my boyfriend was flying out of lax and we were going to be really early to the airport. i thought it was a nice place and would be romantic beofre he left, but then the food wasn't so good and it was really expensive. his steak was super tough. even the bread was just ok. for a few bucks you can eat at kfc, so i'd skip it. more

Very; Very Disappointing! 12/12/2010

I went out with my wife to The Buggy Whip last night and was very disappointed. My steak was dry and had no flavor and her crab legs were thin; small and utterly lacking any flavor. We had been here twice before--in 2005 and 2007 and it was excellent both times. We were astonished at how the quality of the food has gone downhill. The crab legs were almost $50.00 and we felt totally ripped off. I don't recommend this restaurant to anyone. more

Very; Very Disappointing! 12/12/2010

I went out with my wife to The Buggy Whip last night and was very disappointed. My steak was dry and had no flavor and her crab legs were thin; small and utterly lacking any flavor. We had been here twice before--in 2005 and 2007 and it was excellent both times. We were astonished at how the quality of the food has gone downhill. The crab legs were almost $50.00 and we felt totally ripped off. I don't recommend this restaurant to anyone. more

Pretty good all around 8/31/2010

I only gave it 3 stars because I think the history of this place is one of the reasons I truly enjoy coming here. The food is good. Surprisingly the baby back ribs were really tender and delicious. The prime rib is a step down from places like Lawry's but is priced appropriately. I definitely will be back. more

Pretty good all around 8/31/2010

I only gave it 3 stars because I think the history of this place is one of the reasons I truly enjoy coming here. The food is good. Surprisingly the baby back ribs were really tender and delicious. The prime rib is a step down from places like Lawry's but is priced appropriately. I definitely will be back. more

Worth Missing Your Plane For (We Did) 12/5/2008

Having just experienced the Buggy Whip for the first time, we're very impressed. We'd recommend it to anyone, but especially those who appreciate classic mid-20th century dining. The quality and attention to detail in terms of atmosphere, decor, service and (last but not least) food was superb. In terms of atmosphere and decor - The subdued lighting, the wood paneling, the high-back leather booths, and even the lack of tv screens (an unfortunate rarity these days) combine in evoking mid-century style, a time when dining was truly an event. Our waiter for the evening was Fidel, a superbly professional, attentive, knowledgeable and funny server. Seats and butts hadn't had even a chance to get past hello before the drinks were on the table. He achieved the golden mean of service - high attentiveness without even a hint of invasiveness. The food was classic without being staid; the range of dishes enjoyed by our table (prime rib, trout, chicken piccata) being uniformly excellent in flavor, freshness and presentation. Be warned however - portions are generous! The highlight of the evening however, was the pianist, Peter Wagner. This guy defines the term "musical stylings" like nobody else, ever. Peter can play just about anything, and his arrangements and delivery are *amazing*. Manilow, Diamond, The Animals...he made every song fresh and delightful, camping up the lounge stuff, but with bang-on virtuosity. We were lucky enough to be late diners, so we got to sing along and clap like you might not want to do with a full dining room. Regardless, be sure to pick up his CD's...We'd *especially* recommend his single of "House of the Rising Sun" - pure, pure gold. Pros: Peter Wagner! Cons: Location, but great if you're on the way to the airport more

Worth Missing Your Plane For (We Did) 12/5/2008

Having just experienced the Buggy Whip for the first time, we're very impressed. We'd recommend it to anyone, but especially those who appreciate classic mid-20th century dining.\r \r The quality and attention to detail in terms of atmosphere, decor, service and (last but not least) food was superb. \r \r In terms of atmosphere and decor - The subdued lighting, the wood paneling, the high-back leather booths, and even the lack of tv screens (an unfortunate rarity these days) combine in evoking mid-century style, a time when dining was truly an event.\r \r Our waiter for the evening was Fidel, a superbly professional, attentive, knowledgeable and funny server. Seats and butts hadn't had even a chance to get past hello before the drinks were on the table. He achieved the golden mean of service - high attentiveness without even a hint of invasiveness.\r \r The food was classic without being staid; the range of dishes enjoyed by our table (prime rib, trout, chicken piccata) being uniformly excellent in flavor, freshness and presentation. Be warned however - portions are generous!\r \r The highlight of the evening however, was the pianist, Peter Wagner. This guy defines the term ""musical stylings"" like nobody else, ever. Peter can play just about anything, and his arrangements and delivery are *amazing*. Manilow, Diamond, The Animals...he made every song fresh and delightful, camping up the lounge stuff, but with bang-on virtuosity. We were lucky enough to be late diners, so we got to sing along and clap like you might not want to do with a full dining room.\r \r Regardless, be sure to pick up his CD's...We'd *especially* recommend his single of ""House of the Rising Sun"" - pure, pure gold. Pros: Peter Wagner! Cons: Location, but great if you're on the way to the airport more

VERY GOOD DINNING EXPERIENCE! 1/18/2008

Tuesday night my girlfriend and I had dinner at the Buggy Whip. We showed up after 9pm and the restaurant was very busy. We were seated promptly by the hostess in a nice table by the piano. Our waitress was very punctual and helpful to the menu suggestions. The waitress noticed a large party was seated minutes before us and wanted to make sure we were taken care of and not neglected. She immediately had drinks and bread brought to our table. She made it a point to make sure our order was in before the large parties order went in. The waitress was very knowledgeable with the menu and had very helpful suggestions to help our dinning experience. I haven?t been to the Buggy Whip in years just because we live too far from, but now I remember why this place has been around for so long. The excellent service, great food and more then fair pricing will allow this L.A. landmark to keep providing a quality dinning experience. Pros: GREAT FOOD GREAT PRICES GREAT SERVICE Cons: NONE more

VERY GOOD DINNING EXPERIENCE! 1/18/2008

Tuesday night my girlfriend and I had dinner at the Buggy Whip. We showed up after 9pm and the restaurant was very busy. We were seated promptly by the hostess in a nice table by the piano. Our waitress was very punctual and helpful to the menu suggestions. The waitress noticed a large party was seated minutes before us and wanted to make sure we were taken care of and not neglected. She immediately had drinks and bread brought to our table. She made it a point to make sure our order was in before the large parties order went in. The waitress was very knowledgeable with the menu and had very helpful suggestions to help our dinning experience. I haven?t been to the Buggy Whip in years just because we live too far from, but now I remember why this place has been around for so long. The excellent service, great food and more then fair pricing will allow this L.A. landmark to keep providing a quality dinning experience. Pros: GREAT FOOD GREAT PRICES GREAT SERVICE more

Buggy Whip deserves 100 lashes 12/27/2007

I've given this place two chances and will not be back. During both visits the hostess -- Joy, a misnomer -- was rude while we waited for a table more than 30 minutes past the time of our reservation. The drinks are overpriced. The kitchen help needs more help. During both visits at least one member of our party received his entree more than 15 minutes after others were served. This kind of service is unacceptable. Although the waitress did her best to serve the party of six, there was little she could do when the kitchen did not provide her with the food. Ah, the food. On both visits the prime rib was delivered with glistening globs of fat that encouraged the diner to push away the plate. The waitress apologized, saying the cut of meat was not appetizing. Joy, on the other had, was snippy, saying, "Prime rib has fat on it!" One of our diners, a retired butcher, shook his head in disbelief. Steak and chop houses usually get higher grades of beef than grocery stores. The quality of this prime rib -- and the inexcusable attitude of the hostile hostess -- made us want to run to Carrows. Save your money. Save your time. Save your sanity. Don't even think about visiting the Buggy Whip unless you are slipping int othe bar to hear the Jazz musician. Pros: music Cons: food, service more

Buggy Whip deserves 100 lashes 12/27/2007

I've given this place two chances and will not be back. During both visits the hostess -- Joy, a misnomer -- was rude while we waited for a table more than 30 minutes past the time of our reservation. The drinks are overpriced. The kitchen help needs more help. During both visits at least one member of our party received his entree more than 15 minutes after others were served. This kind of service is unacceptable. Although the waitress did her best to serve the party of six, there was little she could do when the kitchen did not provide her with the food. Ah, the food. On both visits the prime rib was delivered with glistening globs of fat that encouraged the diner to push away the plate. The waitress apologized, saying the cut of meat was not appetizing. Joy, on the other had, was snippy, saying, ""Prime rib has fat on it!"" One of our diners, a retired butcher, shook his head in disbelief. Steak and chop houses usually get higher grades of beef than grocery stores. The quality of this prime rib -- and the inexcusable attitude of the hostile hostess -- made us want to run to Carrows. \r Save your money. Save your time. Save your sanity.\r Don't even think about visiting the Buggy Whip unless you are slipping int othe bar to hear the Jazz musician. Pros: music Cons: food, service more

Truly enjoyable experience 6/13/2007

This is my first review of a restaurant but we had such a good time that I felt the need to share our experience. The Buggy Whip is a first rate restaurant. The exterior of the building was covered with beautiful green vines and there were lights strung through that sparkled in the night. The interior decor was pleasant, comfortable and roomy with tables and booths available as well as seating in the bar to enjoy a beverage and the background music of the piano player.\r Our waitress (Erin M) was quite a character. She was very friendly, with a great sense of humor and attentive without being overzealous. She offered suggestions on food selections which was great since the menu selection was varied and tantalizing. We started off with drinks, a salad with a side of the Green Goddess dressing because we just had to try it and although it was tasty we probably won't order it again, and the clam chowder which was thick, creamy and flavorful. Two of us ordered the filet with lobster tail while the third member of our party ordered the filet mignon. The steaks were tender and juicy; the lobster tail was mouthwateringly wonderful. The baked potato was large and cooked through topped with fresh butter, sour cream and chives, the garlic mashed potatos were creamy and full of flavor, the french fries were french fries and the fresh, steamed veggies were firm and not mushy - we don't like mushy veggies. Since we were quite full from the wonderful meal with some leftovers for later we ordered a slice of cheesecake to go and we were quite surprised over the size of the slice - it was the kind of slice you would serve at home, not the typical sliver one usually receives at a restaurant. At first glance the prices were a bit of a surprise but after savoring every mouthful of our meal it was well worth the price. We definitely intend to go back and highly recommend this restaurant. Pros: Two thumbs up Cons: Probably not the place for young children more

Truly enjoyable experience 6/13/2007

This is my first review of a restaurant but we had such a good time that I felt the need to share our experience. The Buggy Whip is a first rate restaurant. The exterior of the building was covered with beautiful green vines and there were lights strung through that sparkled in the night. The interior decor was pleasant, comfortable and roomy with tables and booths available as well as seating in the bar to enjoy a beverage and the background music of the piano player. Our waitress (Erin M) was quite a character. She was very friendly, with a great sense of humor and attentive without being overzealous. She offered suggestions on food selections which was great since the menu selection was varied and tantalizing. We started off with drinks, a salad with a side of the Green Goddess dressing because we just had to try it and although it was tasty we probably won't order it again, and the clam chowder which was thick, creamy and flavorful. Two of us ordered the filet with lobster tail while the third member of our party ordered the filet mignon. The steaks were tender and juicy; the lobster tail was mouthwateringly wonderful. The baked potato was large and cooked through topped with fresh butter, sour cream and chives, the garlic mashed potatos were creamy and full of flavor, the french fries were french fries and the fresh, steamed veggies were firm and not mushy - we don't like mushy veggies. Since we were quite full from the wonderful meal with some leftovers for later we ordered a slice of cheesecake to go and we were quite surprised over the size of the slice - it was the kind of slice you would serve at home, not the typical sliver one usually receives at a restaurant. At first glance the prices were a bit of a surprise but after savoring every mouthful of our meal it was well worth the price. We definitely intend to go back and highly recommend this restaurant. Pros: Two thumbs up Cons: Probably not the place for young children more

I would NEVER recommend this place 6/7/2007

What was I THINKING to want to go to this place! I agree with the others here who complain about the service. You seriously have to be dwelling in the bowels of this gross neighborhood of westchester to get service at this low class truck stop they call a restaurant. There were 3 hostesses on staff when i arrived, and by the looks of them, THEY arrived to work here 60 years ago. The food was overpriced, the service was horrendous, and apparently you have to be old and fat and come here for the past century to get attention. They must have ties to the mob by the look of the "people" that were hanging out there. The owner has a Bentley parked out back, he can thank all these suckers for making him a fortune. more

I would NEVER recommend this place 6/7/2007

What was I THINKING to want to go to this place! I agree with the others here who complain about the service. You seriously have to be dwelling in the bowels of this gross neighborhood of westchester to get service at this low class truck stop they call a restaurant. There were 3 hostesses on staff when i arrived, and by the looks of them, THEY arrived to work here 60 years ago. The food was overpriced, the service was horrendous, and apparently you have to be old and fat and come here for the past century to get attention. They must have ties to the mob by the look of the ""people"" that were hanging out there. The owner has a Bentley parked out back, he can thank all these suckers for making him a fortune. more

Feeling nostalgic? Head for the Buggy Whip! 4/30/2007

After reading some of these reviews I was pretty worried about how things would go but my bfriend really wanted to go to the Buggy Whip for his bday, so we were going...\r \r I am delighted to report none of those things were true for us. We made advance reservations in the piano lounge, and I found the hostess no nonsense when booking, but very helpful. The serving staff was all courteous and friendly, and timely.\r \r I had the filet but I'd forgotten that in true steakhouses filets are about 2 inches thick and so best geared toward those who like their meat pretty rare. However, I just did what I always do with those giant steaks, eat around the outside and take the rest home! My bfriend had the ""famous"" rib-eye and really enjoyed it. Of course we both had the house salad with green goddess - yum! Oh and the veggies, were not canned peas as reported in other reviews, instead split Italian squash with a touch of marinara and parmesan.\r \r The prices are a bit high, but they are not out of line with other traditional steakhouses. All in all a great meal, for about what I expected to spend and most importantly, a successful bday treat!\r \r What I see as the true charm of a restaurant like the Buggy Whip is this is the kind of place that set our expectations as children, when going out to dinner was still a real event. Sometimes for me to get back in touch with that ""special night out"" feeling I need a leather booth and a formally dressed waiter. I need to get away from the ""scene"" where the evening often becomes about the people around you instead of the person/people you are with. We all eat out so often that it's easy to loose that sense of occasion. If you let it, the Buggy Whip will take you back to that feeling, and honestly, wasn't the excitement part of what made our dinner so good when we were 10 :-) Pros: Green goddess dressing, live piano, low key more

Feeling nostalgic? Head for the Buggy Whip! 4/30/2007

After reading some of these reviews I was pretty worried about how things would go but my bfriend really wanted to go to the Buggy Whip for his bday, so we were going... I am delighted to report none of those things were true for us. We made advance reservations in the piano lounge, and I found the hostess no nonsense when booking, but very helpful. The serving staff was all courteous and friendly, and timely. I had the filet but I'd forgotten that in true steakhouses filets are about 2 inches thick and so best geared toward those who like their meat pretty rare. However, I just did what I always do with those giant steaks, eat around the outside and take the rest home! My bfriend had the "famous" rib-eye and really enjoyed it. Of course we both had the house salad with green goddess - yum! Oh and the veggies, were not canned peas as reported in other reviews, instead split Italian squash with a touch of marinara and parmesan. The prices are a bit high, but they are not out of line with other traditional steakhouses. All in all a great meal, for about what I expected to spend and most importantly, a successful bday treat! What I see as the true charm of a restaurant like the Buggy Whip is this is the kind of place that set our expectations as children, when going out to dinner was still a real event. Sometimes for me to get back in touch with that "special night out" feeling I need a leather booth and a formally dressed waiter. I need to get away from the "scene" where the evening often becomes about the people around you instead of the person/people you are with. We all eat out so often that it's easy to loose that sense of occasion. If you let it, the Buggy Whip will take you back to that feeling, and honestly, wasn't the excitement part of what made our dinner so good when we were 10 :-) Pros: Green goddess dressing, live piano, low key more
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Menu for Buggy Whip


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Second oldest and Most historic steakhouse in Los Angeles!!!

Owner Message
  • Located in Westchester, CA near LAX, Buggy Whip has been a landmark in Southern California since 1949. Chef/Owner Paul Darricarrere has been providing friendly customer service, great authentic food and the perfect ambience for all occassions. Perfect for booking private parties and corporate events, Buggy Whip's private banquet room is the perfect place to do so. Buggy Whip is the second oldest Steakhouse in Los Angeles and offers a menu with a variety of options. Also known for its live entertainment and bar scene, Buggy Whip offers everything you could want in a restaurant and bar.

Editorial
  • The Scene
    The atmosphere is as thick and nostalgic as the steaks. Shady-looking suits rub elbows with ageless blond regulars, a spattering of martini-sipping hipsters and a relentless...

  • 1/6/2005 Provided by Citysearch
Additional information
  • Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm; Sat-Sun 4-10pm
  • Payments: American Express, Discover, Visa, Diner's Club, Master Card
  • Neighborhoods: West LA, Westchester
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