Il Moro

When I friend recently told me that Il Moro on the Westside has a free all-you-can-eat happy hour buffet that's really good, I was a bit skeptical. I mean, there has got to be a catch, right!? Nope. Drinks are full price, but there isn't a drink minimum like you would think. So you can get a glass of wine for $8 and stuff your face like there is no tomorrow.

Il Moro's buffet was quite impressive with a variety of small plates to choose from. My favorites were the Chicken Croquettes, Carrot Soup, Seafood Ceviche, and Crispy Prosciutto with stewed vegetables. My friends had other favorites such as the Eggplant Lasagna. It just goes to show you, you have to try everything to find your favorite. I tried to sample everything (you know... for research 'n all), but I was about to lapse into a food coma.

Carrot Soup with curry and ginger

with Smoked Salmon and Japanese Caviar

Eggplant Lasagna

 with Basil Sauce

Seafood Ceviche

Crispy Prosciutto
with stewed Vegetables

Grilled Shrimp with a sauce 

made of tomatoes and Sweet Japanese Wine

Chicken Croquettes

Our party's favorite

Il Moro also has a selection of desserts. We were offered a White Chocolate Custard topped with raspberry and drizzled dark chocolate and a Cappuccino Custard with Pomegranate Liquor on top of a buttery crust. The Cappuccino Custard was so good I wanted a second one!

So, the only thing you need to pay for are your drinks, and they have quite the drink menu. It starts out with a page of signature cocktails for $12. We tried the Asian Pear Martini and the Black Cherry Fizz.  We preferred the Fizz. Their beer and wine list is very extensive. They offer over 40 different wines by the glass (starting at $8) and more than 30 different beers from around the world (starting at $7).

After speaking with the man behind these creations, Chef Miguel, we realized the pride he takes in all his dishes. He told us how the variety in ingredients and a contrast in color are important in his dishes. The manager also told us how Chef Miguel frequently changes the menu, so dishes aren't repetitive.

Il Moro's happy hour definitely provides a well-rounded selection of food and drinks.  Are you going to get an amazing deal??? Well if you get 2 cocktails, you are going to pay $30 after tax and tip. A bit costly for happy hour. So stick to the wine or beer and it won't put as big as a dent to your wallet compared to the cocktails. But if you are looking more to fill your belly than gettin' your drink on, then Il Moro is a place you should try.

Happy Hour:

Mon. Fri. 5-7pm

Il Moro

11400 West Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064

(310) 575-3530

www.ilmoro.com