Luna Park is a weird little place. They offer valet parking, but their prices border on cheap in light of the high quality. Epicurious.com calls it one of the best budget spots in L.A. The crowd and décor are decidedly funky and modern, but the menu highlights such tongue-in-cheek retro classics as fondue appetizers and s’more desserts. I couldn’t quite figure the place out, but I really liked it.

We dined at 9 p.m. on Saturday night, thanks to a quick and easy reservation made the day before through Open Table. We waited for one drink’s time at the bar – just a Malibu & Coke and Vodka Tonics for our party of three (myself, sister Amy, and friend Jaime). We loved how the drinks were garnished with silly little plastic animals. And it gave us something to play with all night!

Once seated, I got a chance to check out their intriguing large-scale artwork. Canvases with bizarrely indescribable creatures demanded my attention. I wish I’d caught the artist’s name. And next time, I’d love to get one of their cozy booths framed with velvety curtains. Can you make a special reservation for one of those? Anyone know?

My next cocktail was phenomenal - Hangar One Raspberry Lime Rickey with Fresh Raspberries and a Splash of Soda. Overflowing with fresh, crushed raspberries, I’d never drunk anything quite like it and I’ve had a ton of cocktails in my time!

Since I’d felt sick all day after accidentally ingesting a sleeping pill that I thought was a Tylenol (don’t ask!) I was starving and ready to throw any hint of moderation out the window. First up was Warm Goat Cheese Fondue with Grilled Bread and Sliced Apples, which was tangy and satisfying. We also began our meal with Grilled Artichoke with Lemon Aioli, grilled to perfection and full of flavor.

Next, I ordered the most mega-creamy, crazy-indulgent entrée I’ve ordered at a restaurant in at least ten years - Oven Baked Macaroni & Cheese and Broccoli with or without Neuske Smoked Ham. I know many people would disagree with my omission of the ham, but the dish was rich and dreamy enough vegetarian-style. I enjoyed every moment of this dish, especially the crunchy pasta shells coated with bread crumbs and freshly grated parmesan. The other cheeses were gruyere, white cheddar, and cream cheese. Holy crap it was good!

For some reason, I didn’t even mind that Jaime and Amy picked at my mac ‘n’ cheese quite a bit. I know it was irresistible!

As for my dining partners, they enjoyed the Grilled Flat Iron Steak with French Fries and Salsa Verde and a green salad. Everyone was happy, but sadly too full to try the Make Your Own S’more: Molten Marshmallow and Bittersweet Chocolate, House Made Graham Cookies. Believe me – we regretted this decision severely the next day. I guess there’s always next time!

As for the bill, I actually had to leave before it came, so I don’t know the total. I will try and get that information soon and add it in.

Thanks to the Chowhound crew for discussing this restaurant and bringing it to my attention. It was a great night – interesting food done well in a fun atmosphere. I hope to be back some day!

Luna Park
672 S. La Brea (near Wilshire)
Los Angeles, CA 90036
tel: 323.934.2110

The next report will be on Doughboys for breakfast!