VIBE

Formerly a sprawling Chinese joint on Sunset popular with the somewhat seedy starlet-and-agent set, in 2008 Joss moved to a refined Beverly Hills locale, pared down their space to 10 tables (spread across two floors–it’s intimate) and created an organic menu. Their new sleek look mixes Asian features like hand-carved wooden screens with modern minimalism. The revamped eats are fabulously fresh and creative, and service charmingly friendly: a lovely little zen retreat.

CROWD

Chinese food aficionados, well-heeled Beverly Hills types, and a handful of cool kids.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Dress ranges from kids in jeans and flip-flops picking up takeaway to snazzed-up couples on dates, so pretty much anything goes.

GO HERE WITH

A date; friends; fans of Chinese food

WHY WE LIKE IT

We love the healthy, fresh menu–a nice change from gloopy takeaway fare. Also, the restricted number of tables makes for a lovely, intimate experience–a great spot for a tête-à-tête with your date du jour or a good friend. The USD 15 lunch special (three pieces dim sum, soup or salad, a la carte entrée) is a great deal.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

A bit more space would be nice–we don’t always want to be front-row spectators to the drama at the next table over.

GOOD TO KNOW

Definitely worth checking out is their Sunday evening Dim Sum Set Tea–a leisurely meal based around a varied mix of their creative and ultra fresh dim sum. (You’ll need to reserve in advance for this.) If you can’t score a table, they also have takeout available. The small space makes coming here with big groups or kids tricky.

OTHER LOCATIONS

None

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