Ox & Son (CLOSED)

Named after his father, Gary "Ox" Miller, chef Brad Miller opened Ox & Son on Santa Monica's growing Montana Avenue as an ode to elevated comfort food. That means what, exactly? Well, for starters: mussel and tomato chorizo poutine, chicken croquettes, and an O&S burger topped with truffle aioli. There is coffee cake and after dinner drinks, and if brunch is your thing (and when is it not your thing?), chocolate bacon bourbon pancakes and a killer banh mi bowl are just a couple stellar items from the menu. Beer and wine are also available.