I was wondering why you would recommend skipping the wine pairing with the 9 course. I'm looking for a very nice restaurant to take my husband for his 40th birthday. He goes to Montreal on business every few months and raves about the food at Toque where he eats whenever he goes (and can get a reservation). He always has the gourmet meal (6 courses) with the wine pairing. I'm looking for a restaurant with a similar menu. If anyone is familiar with Toque maybe they can suggest a comparable or even better restaurant in the L.A. area. My husband and I haven't been out to a really nice restaurant since we started having kids (I think the last nice restaurant we went to was Spago over 10 years ago) so we are definitely over due and have no idea what restaurant is good now adays. From the postings I've been reading, I'm leaning toward Sona, A.O.C., or Bastide. If anyone has any other suggestions or opinions, I would appreciate them. I know everyone has different tastes and preferences but from the postings I've read, I can see that you all know good food which is what I'm looking for. Thanks!!!
