A Case of Different Strokes

I was surprised by S. Irene Virbila’s review of Eclipse (Sept. 18). Its tone suggests that when a restaurant has such an impressive lineage (the former owner of Spago, the space formerly that of Morton’s), it is merely a bigger and better target for the clever quips of the critic. Also, Virbila treats the success of the “A-list” patrons as a source of embarrassment or a subject of ridicule. Call me crazy, but I still get a thrill when some of the most accomplished people in town are shoulder to shoulder with me at dinner.

As for the food, it’s as thought the reviewer and I have dined at different restaurants. My seafood dishes have never been overcooked but have been prepared in perfect accord with my instructions. The appetizers are so good I have trouble deciding which one to order. Occasionally, I’m even enticed to break my vow not to eat desserts. And I’ve never had to wait for a reserved table.

At Eclipse, I get the service that I appreciate and have come to expect, even though I arrive minus bodyguards with “telltale ear cords.”

JON TURTLE

Beverly Hills

*

I want to compliment Virbila on her directness and honesty. It made me smile to read that someone had the guts to write such a revealing review.

JERRY JOLTON

Beverly Hills