April 1, 2008
jonathan west hollywood, ca

So I think this pretentious dump finally closed1 The tiny portions and pushing people around really paid off for the "owner", I was really surprised that it lasted as long as it did. It is a shame though it could have been somthing special with the right people running it. i'll never forget how the hostess would block your way into the place instead of greeting you.
February 19, 2008
Curtis West Hollywood, CA

Outdoor tables mostly vacant upon arrival. Hostess said all reserved. After being seated at the bar 45 mins, drinking/still eating, 2 of the ower's freinds arrived; he asked us to move so they could sit together. Bartender was embarassed by owner's request/attitude. Had we just begun it would be different; this isn't done in the middle of eating. Food/wine very good, experience marred any enjoyment. When we left an hour later just 2 patrons sitting outside. Waiting for this place to close.
April 25, 2007
gilescorey los angeles, CA

Since moving to LA 7 years ago, I've found few restaurants live up to the menu prices, but Bin 8945 is one of the few. My food & wine pairings, all chosen by the somm, were phenomenal, & created with a degree of care absent elsewhere. Yes, overall, service is too stiff & proper - almost cold- but if I wanted fake smiles and mediocre food, I'd hit Houston's. The menu is slightly out of my budget & the space cramped, but the fare is so superiour to "top" LA haunts, I intend to become a regular.
February 24, 2007
Chris West Hollywiood, Ca

They need to get back to basics. They really believe that they are far superior to all of us. They are not. Worst wine service I've ever seen, complete amatuers. They are fools.
February 13, 2007
Sherry Los Angeles, Ca

I felt like they were lazy. When I go to other wine bars I feel like they want it to be an interesting tasting experience for me by explaining more about the origins of the wine and showing off the bottles. I guess this place figures that because they have a constant walk in flow they don't have to give a damn. It sucks because it could be a real gem.
February 9, 2007
Tom B.Hills, Ca

Same complaint as John. They just point to things on the menu without any enthusiasm, and give you no sense that what you've ordered is what they've poured. Why not bring the bottle over and show me what I am paying $14 a glass for? I loved this place when they first opened because they did show this kind of enthusiasm and service. They've since become wine snobs.
February 9, 2007
John Beverly Hills, CA

Food is good, but service is terrible. The waiters have allowed wine to get to their heads and are very rude. I am a big wine guy and found the manner in which the waiter spoke to me as condescending. They didnt even offer me a taste of the wine I ordered or present the bottle to me prior to pouring it.
February 3, 2007
Tom Beverly hills, CA

Bad service on 2/3/07. Rude red headed waitress, left her 10%. She told me She would not bring me my cheese plate while my wife was having her oysters (great oysters by the way). They are getting too big for their britches. Word of advice for any restaurateur, warmth will get you everywhere, indifference will bury you.