The newest, coolest and most satisfying brewpub in the Valley is Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie. Located in Agoura Hills off of Kanan Road, the owners and proprietors have transformed the site (and dismal interior) of a former Chuy’s into a first-class brewery and restaurant. It’s a bit difficult to see Ladyface from the 101 (word has it a grain silo with lighted sign will soon change all that), but once you exit off Kanan, make a left over the freeway and look behind the Islands to your right. There both the brewpub—and the nearby mountain that lent it its name—await.
As Ladyface is an alehouse, an extra-special reason to drop in is the masterworks of brewmeister David Griffiths, previously of BJ’s up in Oxnard. Some of Griffiths’s creations (crafted right on the premises) include the LA Blonde, Ladyface IPA, LA Blance Blegian Wit and Blue-Belly Barleywine. Griffiths is always up to something new, so ask for the selection of the week. Or if you’re feeling less adventurous (why would you?), the bar is stocked with several other taps and a full list of martinis and other drinks for the more conservative drinker.
Chef Ray Luna, who honed his skills at such stalwarts as Spago, Patina, Shutters on the Beach (and Pasadena’s now-defunct Naya, where this reporter once bussed tables, thank you very much), as well as during a stint cooking for Will Smith, brings his formidable mastery of plate and platter to complement Ladyface’s microbrews. Luna’s menu emphasizes smaller portions with a bigger punch. Standard pub grub includes comfort items like the Pommes Frites and the ale-battered fish ‘n chips, but Luna’s got more up his sleeve—bringing European sensibilities to the American pub experience with lively taste treats such as the Croque-Monsieur/Madame and Gougères. Luna’s always cooking up something new, including the beyond-delicious mac n’ cheese (back, Wendy!). Stay for dessert too, indulging in Crème Brule or spiced chocolate soufflé.
When the weather is pleasant, enjoy Griffiths’s brews and Luna’s platters on the outdoor patio, with Ladyface Mountain holding silent watch over all. If you leave feeling unsatiated, it’s you, and not the drink and food menu, I assure you.
Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie
29281 Agoura Road
Agoura Hills, CA
(818) 477-4566
www.ladyfaceale.com
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