Jeffrey Fishs’ 1920s Pershing Square Building is home to PERCH, a seductive French inspired Bistro that effortlessly boasts a certain je ne sais quoi one can only find in Los Angeles.

The journey to Perch is through the 13^th floor where my fiancée and I exited the elevator, walked by a notable Smith & Barnes piano, only to enter another lift (très exclusive).  As the doors opened on the fifteenth floor we were transported to a charming Bistro with a unique French twist.  This place is unpretentious yet chic, perfect for an evening soirée or romantic rendezvous (I would suggest Wednesdays as they have oysters and live jazz).  The crowd is a combination of young and old, posh and hip.  The interior evokes a warm Parisian feel with its dim lighting and whimsical art deco décor.  An extension of this enchanting ambiance is found on the wraparound patio that offers dazzling panoramic views of Pershing Square.

To commence the night we indulged in cocktails.  The French 64 and Jacques Collins recommended by our gracious waitress were sublime.  The first is a combination of Cognac, Elixir Ginger Syrup, Peche Lambic and Kronneburg 1664.  To some the combination of beer and cognac may seem odd but it was divine, a perfect blend of sweet and bitter with a ginger bite that has you ready for the next.  The Jacques Collins, which includes Boudier Saffron Gin was also perfectly fresh with a slightly sexy saffron twist.  Our drinks were accompanied by a bowl of mixed nuts and dried chilli pieces, served warm and coated in butter and brown sugar, so simple and so good.  I will have to return soon to try the other inspiring cocktails, judging from the faces of others happily imbibing them, this is a must.

The not only talented but charming Executive Chef, Benjamin Udave, approached our table and proposed to send out various dishes for us to try so that we could fully appreciate his playful new approach to his French themed food.  Before the food arrived, however, we were taken on a brief tour of the 16^th floor roof top bar.  The extraordinary view and cosy fire pits make this the perfect place to host a party, go on a stylish date or serve as an urban escape after a long day at work.

Back at our table we sipped a couple of glasses of Vouvray demi sec Domain D’Orleans, a summery sweet and fresh wine with a crisp finish.  Then, we commenced to receive our truly delicious courses, plated in a delicate and simple manner.

We started with the succulent and crunchy Cordon Blue “Poppers”, chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto, Swiss cheese and candied tomato remoulade and Shake & Bake Drumsticks (buttermilk marinated frog’s legs).  These delicate amphibian legs were crisp on the outside, tender on the outside; they are a must.  We then moved on to salads.  The summer vegetable salad was a unique and tasty surprise.  Le Tomates et de Betteraves (beets) salad was also delicious and tremendously fresh.  Then on to Petite Croque Madames and an excellent plate of Roasted Bone Marrow.  The next was my favourite, Moules; a generous bowl of Carlsbad mussels cooked perfectly with scrumptious linguiça.  The Pork Confit Cassulet that followed is a pork (and duck) lover’s paradise.  To top it all of we indulged in the best Lamb burger I have ever had and Chef Benjamin’s, perfectly tender, version of Boeuf bourguignon déconstruit.  The cheese plate, a delightful combination of cheeses was served with a splendid homemade stone fruit jam and truffle honey.  Finally the pièce de résistance; dessert.  Beignets served with wild strawberry and espresso whipped cream.  Chocolate pot de crème made of Valrhona chocolate custard and lastly the apple tart Napoleon.  Vraiment magnifique.

Various events take place at Perch on a weekly basis including Oysters and Jazz on Wednesdays and DJ Shaheh spinning Parisian pop on Thursdays.

Opening times: Dinner: Monday - Wednesday: 4:00pm - 12am (midnight) / Thursday - Friday: 4:00pm - 2:00am / Saturday: 6:00pm - 2:00am / Sunday: CLOSED.  There is a happy hour from Monday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm.

Jenny Pellicer is a Freelance Travel Writer based in LA and has lived in Mexico City, Norway and London