Foodie & travler's choice in Agoura Hills, California
**A Culinary Caravan Through Agoura Hills: Ten Stops for the Discerning Foodie**
Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains, where Kanan Road winds its way toward the ocean, Agoura Hills is often celebrated for its hiking trails and equestrian heritage. But for those in the know, this community harbors a vibrant, diverse, and surprisingly sophisticated dining scene that mirrors its landscape—rustic and welcoming on the surface, with layers of complex flavor waiting to be discovered. Forget the chain restaurants; the real soul of Agoura Hills is found in its independent eateries, each a testament to passion, tradition, and culinary craft. So, buckle up, fellow flavor-seekers. We’re embarking on a ten-stop gastronomic tour, a local’s guide to where you should be eating and, most importantly, what you must order.
### **1. The Latigo Kid: The Heartbeat of Honest American Fare**
**Location:** 5617 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** Step into a slice of authentic, unpretentious Americana. The Latigo Kid is the neighborhood’s reliable, comforting heartbeat—a place of dark wood, friendly chatter, and the sizzle from the grill. It’s where families celebrate Little League wins, friends meet for a hearty lunch, and you’re always greeted with a smile. This is culinary comfort food at its most genuine.
**What to Order (The Can’t-Miss Trio):**
* **The Famous French Dip:** This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an institution. Piled high with thinly sliced, perfectly roasted beef on a soft yet crusty French roll, it’s the accompanying *au jus* that legends are made of—deep, savory, and begging to be dunked into. It’s the quintessential order.
* **Chicken Fried Steak:** A masterclass in the genre. A tenderized steak is encased in a craggy, well-seasoned batter, fried to a golden brown, and smothered in creamy country gravy. It’s a plate that demands a fork and knife and promises pure, unadulterated satisfaction.
* **Classic Cheeseburger:** Sometimes, you just need to get back to basics. Their burger, char-grilled and juicy, served with crisp lettuce, tomato, onion, and a choice of cheese on a toasted bun, is a timeless reminder of why the classic never goes out of style. Pair it with their crispy onion rings for the full experience.
**Pro-Tip:** Come hungry. Portions are generous, reflecting the Kid’s no-nonsense, value-driven ethos. It’s the perfect start to our tour—grounding us in the community’s foundational flavors.
### **2. Green Onion Chinese Food: A Hidden Gem of Authentic Flavors**
**Location:** 30651 Thousand Oaks Blvd Ste F
**Vibe:** Don’t let the modest strip-mall location fool you. Green Onion is a treasure trove for those seeking Chinese cuisine that leans into tradition and bold, wok-fired flavor (“wok hei”). The atmosphere is simple and functional, focused squarely on the food coming out of the kitchen. The aroma of garlic, ginger, and searing sauces is the real decor here.
**What to Order (The Flavor-Packed Essentials):**
* **Kung Pao Chicken:** This is their signature dish for a reason. Tender chunks of chicken, crisp peanuts, and dried chilies are tossed in a complex, balanced sauce that is spicy, slightly sweet, tangy, and utterly addictive. It’s a vibrant explosion in every bite.
* **Beef with Broccoli:** A test of any Chinese kitchen. Green Onion’s version features velvety strips of beef and bright, fresh broccoli in a glossy, rich brown sauce that clings perfectly without being gloppy. It’s simple, executed flawlessly.
* **House Special Chow Mein:** For noodle lovers, this is the move. A heaping plate of pan-fried noodles topped with a bounty of seafood, chicken, and vegetables in a light, savory sauce. The textural contrast between the slightly crispy noodles and the tender toppings is sublime.
**Pro-Tip:** This is takeout paradise, but eating it fresh in your car (we’ve all been there) or at home moments later is key. Ask for the chili oil on the side for an extra kick.
### **3. Noi Due Trattoria: A Romantic Slice of Italy**
**Location:** 29020 Agoura Rd
**Vibe:** Intimate, warm, and effortlessly romantic, Noi Due feels like a secret little villa tucked away in Agoura. With its soft lighting, rustic Italian decor, and the gentle clink of wine glasses, it’s the ideal spot for a date night or a special celebration. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, making you feel like a welcomed guest.
**What to Order (The Italian Journey):**
* **Burrata e Parma:** Start your journey here. A luscious, creamy ball of burrata cheese, served with delicate slices of Prosciutto di Parma, ripe tomatoes, arugula, and a drizzle of aged balsamic. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—salty, sweet, creamy, and fresh.
* **Gnocchi al Gorgonzola:** Pillowy, handmade potato gnocchi bathed in a decadent, creamy Gorgonzola sauce. The sharp, tangy cheese is mellowed by the cream, creating a rich, luxurious coating for the delicate dumplings. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form.
* **Osso Buco:** If it’s on the specials menu, do not hesitate. A slow-braised veal shank, falling-off-the-bone tender, served in a rich tomato and vegetable *soffritto* with a gremolata garnish. The marrow in the bone is the chef’s gift to you—spread it on bread for a truly divine experience.
**Pro-Tip:** Save room for dessert, especially the Tiramisu. It’s house-made and layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a light, mascarpone cream—a classic done right.
### **4. The Yard Thai Cuisine: Modern Thai in a Sleek Setting**
**Location:** 5889 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** Sleek, modern, and buzzing with energy, The Yard offers a contemporary take on the Thai dining experience. It’s stylish without being cold, perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a chic lunch. The presentation is beautiful, matching the vibrant and complex flavors on the plate.
**What to Order (The Modern Thai Standouts):**
* **Crispy Pork Belly:** An absolute must-start. Cubes of pork belly are fried to achieve an impossible crackling-crisp exterior while retaining a juicy, flavorful interior. Served with a sweet-and-tangy tamarind sauce, it’s a textural masterpiece.
* **Panang Curry:** Their version of this rich, peanut-based curry is exceptional. Creamy, aromatic, and packed with flavor (choose your protein—duck is fantastic), it has a deep, rounded heat that builds slowly. It’s the ultimate comfort in a bowl.
* **Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles):** Wide, chewy rice noodles stir-fried with fresh basil, chilies, and your choice of meat in a dark, savory sauce. It’s famously “drunk” with bold flavor and wok char, offering a satisfying, slightly spicy kick.
**Pro-Tip:** Explore their cocktail menu, which often features creative twists with Thai ingredients like lemongrass and lychee, providing a perfect pairing for the spicy and aromatic dishes.
### **5. Agoura Liquor & Deli: The Ultimate Hidden-Gem Sandwich Sanctuary**
**Location:** 5003 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** This is Agoura’s not-so-secret secret. From the outside, it’s a straightforward liquor store. Inside, it houses a deli counter that crafts some of the most legendary sandwiches in the Conejo Valley. It’s no-frills, counter-service magic. You order, you watch them build your masterpiece with care, and you find a spot outside or take it to a nearby park.
**What to Order (The Sandwich Hall of Fame):**
* **The Godfather:** This is the sandwich that inspires pilgrimages. A massive creation piled with genoa salami, capicola, ham, mortadella, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, mustard, and a signature Italian vinaigrette, all on a freshly baked roll. It’s messy, magnificent, and requires two hands and total commitment.
* **Pastrami Reuben:** For the hot sandwich devotees. Heaps of hand-sliced, lean pastrami are grilled with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. It’s melty, tangy, salty, and utterly satisfying.
* **Turkey Avocado:** For a (slightly) lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Freshly sliced turkey, creamy avocado, crisp bacon, Swiss cheese, and all the fixings make for a fresh and fulfilling choice.
**Pro-Tip:** Go early at lunch—the line is a testament to its quality. Grab a craft beer or soda from the cooler to complete your perfect, improvised picnic.
### **6. Cuckoo Rooster: Nashville Heat Meets California Cool**
**Location:** 5653 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** Bright, energetic, and unapologetically fun, Cuckoo Rooster brings the fiery, flavorful phenomenon of Nashville Hot Chicken to Agoura Hills. The vibe is casual and trendy, with a focus on bold, shareable plates and local craft beers. It’s where you go to turn up the heat.
**What to Order (The Heat Seeker’s Guide):**
* **Hot Chicken Sandwich:** The star of the show. A juicy, tender chicken breast, brined and fried to perfection, is slathered in your choice of heat level (from “No Spice” to the daredevil “Cuckoo”) and placed on soft bread with crisp pickles and creamy comeback sauce. It’s a symphony of crunch, heat, and cooling relief.
* **Hot Chicken Tenders:** Perfect for sharing or for those who want to customize their heat per piece. The tenders are just as flavorful and juicy as the sandwich, ideal for dipping into their array of sauces.
* **Loaded Fries or Mac ‘n’ Cheese:** You’ll need these. Pile them high with pulled chicken, cheese, and all the toppings, or get the rich, cheesy mac as a side. They’re essential for balancing the spice.
**Pro-Tip:** Respect the heat scale. If you’re new to Nashville Hot, “Medium” is a serious kick. “Hot” is for veterans. And always, *always* get extra pickles and ranch.
### **7. Uncle Af’s: A Taste of the Islands**
**Location:** 5905 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** A vibrant, colorful oasis serving up the sunny, relaxed flavors of the Caribbean. The atmosphere is as warm as the spices, with reggae music setting the tone. It’s a family-run spot where the passion for island cuisine is palpable in every aromatic dish.
**What to Order (The Island Getaway Plate):**
* **Jerk Chicken:** The cornerstone of the menu. Chicken marinated in a potent, secret blend of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other spices, then grilled to smoky, charred perfection. It’s fiery, deeply aromatic, and utterly compelling.
* **Oxtail Stew:** The ultimate comfort food. Slow-braised oxtails become fall-apart tender in a rich, gravy-like sauce infused with butter beans, carrots, and thyme. Served over rice and peas, it’s a hearty, soul-warming dish.
* **Beef Patties:** The perfect snack or appetizer. Flaky, golden pastry wrapped around a well-spiced, savory ground beef filling. Grab a few to go, or enjoy them as a starter with a Ting grapefruit soda.
**Pro-Tip:** Everything is best enjoyed with their traditional **Rice and Peas** (actually kidney beans) and a side of sweet, fried plantains. Don’t skip the house-made hot sauce for an extra layer of fire.
### **8. BASTA Restaurant: Coastal Italian Elegance**
**Location:** 28863 Agoura Rd
**Vibe:** Sophisticated, airy, and chic, BASTA brings a touch of coastal Italian elegance to Agoura Road. With a beautiful patio and a bright, modern interior, it feels both upscale and welcoming. The menu focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients with a creative, seasonal twist.
**What to Order (The Coastal Italian Tour):**
* **Arancini:** These are not your average rice balls. BASTA’s are crisp, golden spheres with a molten core of risotto and cheese, often featuring seasonal additions like wild mushrooms or truffle. They’re a luxurious start.
* **Handmade Pasta (Any):** The pasta is the heart of the menu. Whether it’s a simple yet perfect **Tagliatelle al Ragu** or a special like squid ink linguine with fresh seafood, you can taste the craftsmanship in every al dente bite.
* **Branzino:** A showstopper. A whole Mediterranean sea bass, simply grilled with fresh herbs and lemon, filleted tableside. It’s light, flaky, and embodies the essence of clean, beautiful Italian cooking.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a place to indulge in the experience. Let your server guide you through the daily specials and consider a bottle from their well-curated Italian wine list to elevate the meal.
### **9. Sushi & Wasabi: Reliable, Fresh, and Inventive Rolls**
**Location:** 5895 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** A cozy, reliable neighborhood sushi spot that consistently delivers on freshness and flavor. It’s friendly, efficient, and perfect for a quick sushi fix at the bar or a relaxed dinner at a table. The chefs are skilled and happy to craft off-menu items for regulars.
**What to Order (The Sushi Lover’s Picks):**
* **Chef’s Sashimi Plate:** Start with the purest expression of their fish quality. A beautiful, artful arrangement of the day’s freshest cuts—tuna, salmon, yellowtail, etc. It’s a testament to their sourcing.
* **Caterpillar Roll:** A classic for a reason. Eel and cucumber inside, topped with thinly sliced avocado to resemble a caterpillar, and drizzled with eel sauce. It’s a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and sweet.
* **Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice:** A modern favorite. A block of crispy, fried sushi rice is topped with a mound of spicy tuna and a dot of spicy mayo. The contrast between the hot, crunchy rice and the cool, spicy fish is phenomenal.
**Pro-Tip:** Sit at the sushi bar and ask the chef for their recommendation or a custom *omakase*-style tasting. It’s the best way to experience their freshest offerings.
### **10. Amores Tequila Grill & Bar: A Fiesta for the Senses**
**Location:** 30315 Canwood St
**Vibe:** Lively, colorful, and bursting with energy, Amores is where Agoura Hills goes to celebrate. With a massive selection of tequila and mezcal, vibrant decor, and often live music, it’s a party on a plate. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic.
**What to Order (The Fiesta Feast):**
* **Tableside Guacamole:** Dinner and a show. Fresh avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and serranos are mashed to your preferred texture right at your table. The freshness is unparalleled.
* **Carnitas:** Slow-braised until tender and then crisped up for texture, these Michoacán-style pork carnitas are a revelation. Served with warm tortillas, salsa, and fixings, they are perfect for building your own tacos.
* **Molcajete “Azteca”:** An impressive, sizzling stone mortar filled with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, nopales (cactus), and chorizo, all simmering in a rich, spicy red sauce with melted cheese. It’s a shareable, dramatic, and delicious centerpiece.
**Pro-Tip:** Dive into their tequila list. Whether you prefer a smooth, aged **Añejo** for sipping or a lively **Blanco** in a margarita (their Cadillac is a must), this is the place to explore Mexico’s iconic spirit.
---
From the rustic comfort of The Latigo Kid to the fiery thrill of Cuckoo Rooster, the romantic whispers of Noi Due to the bold shouts of Amores, Agoura Hills proves itself to be a culinary destination worthy of any foodie’s itinerary. It’s a community where every craving finds a home, every cuisine is treated with respect, and every meal feels like a discovery. So, explore, taste, and savor. Your next favorite dish is waiting just around the corner, right here in the hills.
Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains, where Kanan Road winds its way toward the ocean, Agoura Hills is often celebrated for its hiking trails and equestrian heritage. But for those in the know, this community harbors a vibrant, diverse, and surprisingly sophisticated dining scene that mirrors its landscape—rustic and welcoming on the surface, with layers of complex flavor waiting to be discovered. Forget the chain restaurants; the real soul of Agoura Hills is found in its independent eateries, each a testament to passion, tradition, and culinary craft. So, buckle up, fellow flavor-seekers. We’re embarking on a ten-stop gastronomic tour, a local’s guide to where you should be eating and, most importantly, what you must order.
### **1. The Latigo Kid: The Heartbeat of Honest American Fare**
**Location:** 5617 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** Step into a slice of authentic, unpretentious Americana. The Latigo Kid is the neighborhood’s reliable, comforting heartbeat—a place of dark wood, friendly chatter, and the sizzle from the grill. It’s where families celebrate Little League wins, friends meet for a hearty lunch, and you’re always greeted with a smile. This is culinary comfort food at its most genuine.
**What to Order (The Can’t-Miss Trio):**
* **The Famous French Dip:** This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an institution. Piled high with thinly sliced, perfectly roasted beef on a soft yet crusty French roll, it’s the accompanying *au jus* that legends are made of—deep, savory, and begging to be dunked into. It’s the quintessential order.
* **Chicken Fried Steak:** A masterclass in the genre. A tenderized steak is encased in a craggy, well-seasoned batter, fried to a golden brown, and smothered in creamy country gravy. It’s a plate that demands a fork and knife and promises pure, unadulterated satisfaction.
* **Classic Cheeseburger:** Sometimes, you just need to get back to basics. Their burger, char-grilled and juicy, served with crisp lettuce, tomato, onion, and a choice of cheese on a toasted bun, is a timeless reminder of why the classic never goes out of style. Pair it with their crispy onion rings for the full experience.
**Pro-Tip:** Come hungry. Portions are generous, reflecting the Kid’s no-nonsense, value-driven ethos. It’s the perfect start to our tour—grounding us in the community’s foundational flavors.
### **2. Green Onion Chinese Food: A Hidden Gem of Authentic Flavors**
**Location:** 30651 Thousand Oaks Blvd Ste F
**Vibe:** Don’t let the modest strip-mall location fool you. Green Onion is a treasure trove for those seeking Chinese cuisine that leans into tradition and bold, wok-fired flavor (“wok hei”). The atmosphere is simple and functional, focused squarely on the food coming out of the kitchen. The aroma of garlic, ginger, and searing sauces is the real decor here.
**What to Order (The Flavor-Packed Essentials):**
* **Kung Pao Chicken:** This is their signature dish for a reason. Tender chunks of chicken, crisp peanuts, and dried chilies are tossed in a complex, balanced sauce that is spicy, slightly sweet, tangy, and utterly addictive. It’s a vibrant explosion in every bite.
* **Beef with Broccoli:** A test of any Chinese kitchen. Green Onion’s version features velvety strips of beef and bright, fresh broccoli in a glossy, rich brown sauce that clings perfectly without being gloppy. It’s simple, executed flawlessly.
* **House Special Chow Mein:** For noodle lovers, this is the move. A heaping plate of pan-fried noodles topped with a bounty of seafood, chicken, and vegetables in a light, savory sauce. The textural contrast between the slightly crispy noodles and the tender toppings is sublime.
**Pro-Tip:** This is takeout paradise, but eating it fresh in your car (we’ve all been there) or at home moments later is key. Ask for the chili oil on the side for an extra kick.
### **3. Noi Due Trattoria: A Romantic Slice of Italy**
**Location:** 29020 Agoura Rd
**Vibe:** Intimate, warm, and effortlessly romantic, Noi Due feels like a secret little villa tucked away in Agoura. With its soft lighting, rustic Italian decor, and the gentle clink of wine glasses, it’s the ideal spot for a date night or a special celebration. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, making you feel like a welcomed guest.
**What to Order (The Italian Journey):**
* **Burrata e Parma:** Start your journey here. A luscious, creamy ball of burrata cheese, served with delicate slices of Prosciutto di Parma, ripe tomatoes, arugula, and a drizzle of aged balsamic. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—salty, sweet, creamy, and fresh.
* **Gnocchi al Gorgonzola:** Pillowy, handmade potato gnocchi bathed in a decadent, creamy Gorgonzola sauce. The sharp, tangy cheese is mellowed by the cream, creating a rich, luxurious coating for the delicate dumplings. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form.
* **Osso Buco:** If it’s on the specials menu, do not hesitate. A slow-braised veal shank, falling-off-the-bone tender, served in a rich tomato and vegetable *soffritto* with a gremolata garnish. The marrow in the bone is the chef’s gift to you—spread it on bread for a truly divine experience.
**Pro-Tip:** Save room for dessert, especially the Tiramisu. It’s house-made and layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a light, mascarpone cream—a classic done right.
### **4. The Yard Thai Cuisine: Modern Thai in a Sleek Setting**
**Location:** 5889 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** Sleek, modern, and buzzing with energy, The Yard offers a contemporary take on the Thai dining experience. It’s stylish without being cold, perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a chic lunch. The presentation is beautiful, matching the vibrant and complex flavors on the plate.
**What to Order (The Modern Thai Standouts):**
* **Crispy Pork Belly:** An absolute must-start. Cubes of pork belly are fried to achieve an impossible crackling-crisp exterior while retaining a juicy, flavorful interior. Served with a sweet-and-tangy tamarind sauce, it’s a textural masterpiece.
* **Panang Curry:** Their version of this rich, peanut-based curry is exceptional. Creamy, aromatic, and packed with flavor (choose your protein—duck is fantastic), it has a deep, rounded heat that builds slowly. It’s the ultimate comfort in a bowl.
* **Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles):** Wide, chewy rice noodles stir-fried with fresh basil, chilies, and your choice of meat in a dark, savory sauce. It’s famously “drunk” with bold flavor and wok char, offering a satisfying, slightly spicy kick.
**Pro-Tip:** Explore their cocktail menu, which often features creative twists with Thai ingredients like lemongrass and lychee, providing a perfect pairing for the spicy and aromatic dishes.
### **5. Agoura Liquor & Deli: The Ultimate Hidden-Gem Sandwich Sanctuary**
**Location:** 5003 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** This is Agoura’s not-so-secret secret. From the outside, it’s a straightforward liquor store. Inside, it houses a deli counter that crafts some of the most legendary sandwiches in the Conejo Valley. It’s no-frills, counter-service magic. You order, you watch them build your masterpiece with care, and you find a spot outside or take it to a nearby park.
**What to Order (The Sandwich Hall of Fame):**
* **The Godfather:** This is the sandwich that inspires pilgrimages. A massive creation piled with genoa salami, capicola, ham, mortadella, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, mustard, and a signature Italian vinaigrette, all on a freshly baked roll. It’s messy, magnificent, and requires two hands and total commitment.
* **Pastrami Reuben:** For the hot sandwich devotees. Heaps of hand-sliced, lean pastrami are grilled with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. It’s melty, tangy, salty, and utterly satisfying.
* **Turkey Avocado:** For a (slightly) lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Freshly sliced turkey, creamy avocado, crisp bacon, Swiss cheese, and all the fixings make for a fresh and fulfilling choice.
**Pro-Tip:** Go early at lunch—the line is a testament to its quality. Grab a craft beer or soda from the cooler to complete your perfect, improvised picnic.
### **6. Cuckoo Rooster: Nashville Heat Meets California Cool**
**Location:** 5653 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** Bright, energetic, and unapologetically fun, Cuckoo Rooster brings the fiery, flavorful phenomenon of Nashville Hot Chicken to Agoura Hills. The vibe is casual and trendy, with a focus on bold, shareable plates and local craft beers. It’s where you go to turn up the heat.
**What to Order (The Heat Seeker’s Guide):**
* **Hot Chicken Sandwich:** The star of the show. A juicy, tender chicken breast, brined and fried to perfection, is slathered in your choice of heat level (from “No Spice” to the daredevil “Cuckoo”) and placed on soft bread with crisp pickles and creamy comeback sauce. It’s a symphony of crunch, heat, and cooling relief.
* **Hot Chicken Tenders:** Perfect for sharing or for those who want to customize their heat per piece. The tenders are just as flavorful and juicy as the sandwich, ideal for dipping into their array of sauces.
* **Loaded Fries or Mac ‘n’ Cheese:** You’ll need these. Pile them high with pulled chicken, cheese, and all the toppings, or get the rich, cheesy mac as a side. They’re essential for balancing the spice.
**Pro-Tip:** Respect the heat scale. If you’re new to Nashville Hot, “Medium” is a serious kick. “Hot” is for veterans. And always, *always* get extra pickles and ranch.
### **7. Uncle Af’s: A Taste of the Islands**
**Location:** 5905 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** A vibrant, colorful oasis serving up the sunny, relaxed flavors of the Caribbean. The atmosphere is as warm as the spices, with reggae music setting the tone. It’s a family-run spot where the passion for island cuisine is palpable in every aromatic dish.
**What to Order (The Island Getaway Plate):**
* **Jerk Chicken:** The cornerstone of the menu. Chicken marinated in a potent, secret blend of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other spices, then grilled to smoky, charred perfection. It’s fiery, deeply aromatic, and utterly compelling.
* **Oxtail Stew:** The ultimate comfort food. Slow-braised oxtails become fall-apart tender in a rich, gravy-like sauce infused with butter beans, carrots, and thyme. Served over rice and peas, it’s a hearty, soul-warming dish.
* **Beef Patties:** The perfect snack or appetizer. Flaky, golden pastry wrapped around a well-spiced, savory ground beef filling. Grab a few to go, or enjoy them as a starter with a Ting grapefruit soda.
**Pro-Tip:** Everything is best enjoyed with their traditional **Rice and Peas** (actually kidney beans) and a side of sweet, fried plantains. Don’t skip the house-made hot sauce for an extra layer of fire.
### **8. BASTA Restaurant: Coastal Italian Elegance**
**Location:** 28863 Agoura Rd
**Vibe:** Sophisticated, airy, and chic, BASTA brings a touch of coastal Italian elegance to Agoura Road. With a beautiful patio and a bright, modern interior, it feels both upscale and welcoming. The menu focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients with a creative, seasonal twist.
**What to Order (The Coastal Italian Tour):**
* **Arancini:** These are not your average rice balls. BASTA’s are crisp, golden spheres with a molten core of risotto and cheese, often featuring seasonal additions like wild mushrooms or truffle. They’re a luxurious start.
* **Handmade Pasta (Any):** The pasta is the heart of the menu. Whether it’s a simple yet perfect **Tagliatelle al Ragu** or a special like squid ink linguine with fresh seafood, you can taste the craftsmanship in every al dente bite.
* **Branzino:** A showstopper. A whole Mediterranean sea bass, simply grilled with fresh herbs and lemon, filleted tableside. It’s light, flaky, and embodies the essence of clean, beautiful Italian cooking.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a place to indulge in the experience. Let your server guide you through the daily specials and consider a bottle from their well-curated Italian wine list to elevate the meal.
### **9. Sushi & Wasabi: Reliable, Fresh, and Inventive Rolls**
**Location:** 5895 Kanan Rd
**Vibe:** A cozy, reliable neighborhood sushi spot that consistently delivers on freshness and flavor. It’s friendly, efficient, and perfect for a quick sushi fix at the bar or a relaxed dinner at a table. The chefs are skilled and happy to craft off-menu items for regulars.
**What to Order (The Sushi Lover’s Picks):**
* **Chef’s Sashimi Plate:** Start with the purest expression of their fish quality. A beautiful, artful arrangement of the day’s freshest cuts—tuna, salmon, yellowtail, etc. It’s a testament to their sourcing.
* **Caterpillar Roll:** A classic for a reason. Eel and cucumber inside, topped with thinly sliced avocado to resemble a caterpillar, and drizzled with eel sauce. It’s a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and sweet.
* **Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice:** A modern favorite. A block of crispy, fried sushi rice is topped with a mound of spicy tuna and a dot of spicy mayo. The contrast between the hot, crunchy rice and the cool, spicy fish is phenomenal.
**Pro-Tip:** Sit at the sushi bar and ask the chef for their recommendation or a custom *omakase*-style tasting. It’s the best way to experience their freshest offerings.
### **10. Amores Tequila Grill & Bar: A Fiesta for the Senses**
**Location:** 30315 Canwood St
**Vibe:** Lively, colorful, and bursting with energy, Amores is where Agoura Hills goes to celebrate. With a massive selection of tequila and mezcal, vibrant decor, and often live music, it’s a party on a plate. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic.
**What to Order (The Fiesta Feast):**
* **Tableside Guacamole:** Dinner and a show. Fresh avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and serranos are mashed to your preferred texture right at your table. The freshness is unparalleled.
* **Carnitas:** Slow-braised until tender and then crisped up for texture, these Michoacán-style pork carnitas are a revelation. Served with warm tortillas, salsa, and fixings, they are perfect for building your own tacos.
* **Molcajete “Azteca”:** An impressive, sizzling stone mortar filled with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, nopales (cactus), and chorizo, all simmering in a rich, spicy red sauce with melted cheese. It’s a shareable, dramatic, and delicious centerpiece.
**Pro-Tip:** Dive into their tequila list. Whether you prefer a smooth, aged **Añejo** for sipping or a lively **Blanco** in a margarita (their Cadillac is a must), this is the place to explore Mexico’s iconic spirit.
---
From the rustic comfort of The Latigo Kid to the fiery thrill of Cuckoo Rooster, the romantic whispers of Noi Due to the bold shouts of Amores, Agoura Hills proves itself to be a culinary destination worthy of any foodie’s itinerary. It’s a community where every craving finds a home, every cuisine is treated with respect, and every meal feels like a discovery. So, explore, taste, and savor. Your next favorite dish is waiting just around the corner, right here in the hills.
Comments
Post a Comment