November 19, 2008

Swede and Lowdown

AK Restaurant + Bar Opens

Nothing quiets your rumbling tum like a heaping plate of Swedish meatballs. (Then again, you’d willingly eat cardboard for a time-out at Ikea.)

Trade up at AK, the new Scandinavian-leaning Abbot Kinney bar and resto with a globally inspired, market-fresh twist, opening today.

Decor is minimalist (per Swedish chef/owner Conny Andersson’s heritage) with a beachy vibe. A flickering fireplace and living bamboo wall keep the patio cozy; the live video feed from the kitchen makes the loft-like balcony the place to literally see and be seen.

Order traditional Scandinavian comfort food (aquavit-cured salmon, lingonberry preserve) or take one of the menu’s many detours, such as lamb with dukka spice and Medjool dates, sweet potato gnocchi, and braised short ribs with bacon and truffle mash.

Which should more than satisfy that Swede tooth.

AK Restaurant + Bar, 1633 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, between Venice and Palms Boulevards, Venice (310-392-6644).