The Best Fried Chicken in Los Angeles is at Bastide

Bastide is known for many things: its beautiful patio, its succession of great chefs, a mercurial owner, a deep wine cellar. But who knew that this luxe and casual oasis is also serving the best fried chicken in Los Angeles? Put all those thoughts of what you think you know in the past because Chef Joseph Mahon is firing on all cylinders and his fried chicken is out of this world.

The menu listing is deceptive. I believe it is called tomato. It is a composed salad of red and yellow tomatoes, with some watermelon, crumbed cheese, greens and two pieces of dark meat chicken fried to perfection.

The chicken is flavorful and the skin stayed on. This is not pick up and eat it with your hands fried chicken but when you taste it you are going to want to. It is not greasy nor has the bread crumbs (I'm not a fan of the breadcrumb style at Huckleberry) that some do. Until now my benchmark for fried chicken in the Los Angeles area was Flossie's in the South Bay, but the chicken at Bastide is even better. Having just had the chicken at Larkin's last week, this was at another level of deliciousness.

I highly recommend you go, and go soon. Reservations recommended as it is a small restaurant.

Disclosure: I am a regular at the restaurant and known to the staff.

Bastide is located at 8475 Melrose Place. Phone: (323) 651-5950