Quick bites: Hinoki and the Bird freshens up Century City

David Myers helps ready duck breast hors d'oeuvres

What: Hinoki and the Bird is Comme Ca owner David Myers' latest creation, with former Sona chef Kuniko Yagi in the kitchen. There's no one named Hinoki; it means Japanese cedar wood, and it's just one of the many ways Myers pays tribute to his love for Japanese flavors and cultures in the restaurant which has a multicultural menu with Asian leanings.
Where: On the bottom floor of the 10 W. Century Dr. condo building next to the Century Plaza hotel off Ave. of the Stars.
Open since: Jan. 17

I'm obsessed with the vintage barstools

The goods: Valet parking goes without saying in Century City, but inside the cedar-clad restaurant you'll forget you're in a high-rise. Sexy lighting comes from copper pendants; Umanoff bar stools and smoothly sculpted dining chairs add a subtle mid-century look; the large patio is dark and cozy. Dinner only for now; bar program from Milk and Honey's Sam Ross has terrific choices like the Bird Cup with gin, citrus and a bracing dose of ginger, or the Jungle Bird with Black Strap rum, pineapple, lime and Campari. Since I live on Griffith Park Blvd. and I love bourbon, I'll be back for a Griffith Park Swizzle with bourbon, mint, lime, bitters and absinthe.

darling duck appetizers

Recommended dishes: Lobster roll with green curry on charooal bread; pumpkin toast with miso jam and goat cheese; chili crab toast; donut-like madeleines and green tea donut holes at dessert.
Skip it: So far, so good.
Possibility of a return visit: The location isn't my favorite, but it makes a good spot to meet people from Beverly Hills or the Westside. With light and healthy dishes and the very promising cocktails, why not?
Here's a link to the full menu on Grub Street; Hinoki's website isn't yet complete.