When I think of dining in Topanga Canyon my mind goes to something cozy, romantic and nestled in the hills. I was very excited to check out a new dining experience, The Rack. I was at first a bit taken aback when I found that it was in Westfield Promenade. I must say that I find most mall food somewhat predictable but I could not have been more pleasantly surprised at the innovation of Chef Elon Kviatkovsky.

Who would think of amazing food at a pool hall? We were in for a culinary treat.

The Rack features great music, sports bar, large HDTV screens, 17 large and elegantly carved pool tables, a VIP room, large temperature controlled outdoor patio and a unique cigar bar where smoking is allowed outside in an enclosed patio with full menu service available.

The staff was pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable. And in this corporate world it is refreshing to see that this establishment is family owned and operated. (Brother, Rami Kviatkovsky, is the general manager and Dad, Yossi Kviatkovsky, is the owner.)

We started our meal with Veggie Tortilla Soup ($5.95), loaded with fresh vegetables, cheese and served with tortilla chips and garnished with fresh avocado. It is fresh and delicious, with just the perfect amount of kick. Then they brought us a Rack Original Signature, Blackened Shrimp Tortizza ($13.95). Fresh roasted chili paste, two layers of jack and cheddar cheese on two layers of paper-thin tortillas toped with diced tomatoes, fresh roasted corn with Cajun blackened shrimp. The slight kick was once again perfect. I’ve Got Crab Cakes ($17.95) are some of the best I have ever had. Thick and meaty crispy crab with a chili and cornbread crust served with a chipotle remoulade sauce beautifully presented with a mixed baby green salad with fire-roasted corn, roasted roma tomatoes and cucumbers tossed in balsamic vinaigrette. We needed to slow down a bit, so we took our waitress’ recommendation for a chardonnay and she poured us their house wine, Echelon. Crisp and refreshing it hit the spot perfectly. We went for a walk around the massive space. The bar was packed while enthusiastic soccer fans watched the World Cup. The acoustics on the patio are wonderful, as I did not hear a peep of this while enjoying my meal. We toured the VIP room, which you can rent, to play pool or they can cover the tables and serve food. The room also features a laptop connection on the large screen TV for powerpoint presentations. The bartender showed us the drink menu with extensive house specialty drinks and their impressive selection of fine tequilas, vodka, scotches and port.

Back at the table we feasted on Candied Asian Beef ($17.95), tender skirt steak in a sweet lemongrass and ginger infused marinade, fire grilled to perfection with a crunchy, sweet crust, served with jasmine rice and spicy carrot and snow pea slaw.

Other interesting entrée choices are the 7 Ball Meatloaf Special ($16.95), the house special meatloaf topped with coconut pineapple BBQ sauce served with smashed potatoes and garlic spinach and The Rack of Ribs (half $9.95 and full $16.95), baby backs simmered in beer and garlic, finished on the open flame with onion rings and slaw. For lighter eaters there is Cueball Salmon ($18.95), broiled with garlic butter, white wine and capers, served with zucchini, mushrooms and fire roasted corn and Farm Raised Trout ($17.95), butterflied trout broiled with garlic butter, capers and cashews. For vegetarians there is Ginger and Lemongrass Pan Fried Tofu ($12.95), Curry Style Pan Fried Tofu ($13.95) and The Rack Mac ($11.95).

We then sipped coffee and took in the lovely, cool patio and the chef insisted we try his signature dessert. Who am I to argue? He brought us the most mouth watering Cinnamon Apple & Walnut Bread Pudding ($6.95) served with ice cream and a maple bourbon cream sauce. It reminded me of a most special childhood moment of a summer day eating French toast with ice cream. So well done. Other great desserts are: Chocolaty Chocolate Cake ($5.95), Flan Brule ($6.95) and there is always a dessert of the day.

The Racks Motto "Where fine dining and entertainment COLLIDE." I would have to agree!