Lot 1 tries to re-concept; Umami burger early reports

The Eastsider LA takes a look at Lot 1, which has struggled to find its way since Josef Centeno left the Echo Park spot. The owner tells the Eastsider she will soon be introducing a "recession-proof" Mediterranean and Italian menu.
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Early Chowhound and Yelp reports on Adam Fleischman's Umami Burger on La Brea are very favorable. It's not far from my office, so I'll try it soon. Here's details on the menu from FoodGPS.
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...and here's an annoying recession-inspired trend: mediocre restaurants like Mani's writing to EaterLA to beg that patrons support them more. I wonder if only boring, overpriced restaurants will try that tactic?