**** (4 stars)

Back in the 80s we somehow accidentally stumbled upon this place in the dark one night. Once you visit, you’ll realize how unlikely an event this was, given how it’s tucked away in a little canyon. That night, even though the restaurant had only been open a couple of weeks, we had a delightful meal, with fresh game and attentive service in an exotic hunting lodge setting. We’ve been going here ever since.

Saddle Peak Lodge is perhaps LA’s most unique restaurant, given its colorful history and unique decor. If you’re put off by mounted hunting trophies, this isn’t the place for you. But if great elk, quail or other game is your thing, this is the place.

It’s a particularly good ambiance for holiday dinners, and has become our Thanksgiving standard. Brunch is also popular, with outside seating that can be zipped up when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Saddle Peak Lodge
419 Cold Canyon Rd
Calabasas, CA 91302
(818) 222-3888
http://www.yelp.com/biz/saddle-peak-lodge-calabasas