Eriq La Salle - Why I love this place

Eriq La Salle, best known for his portrayal of Dr. Peter Benton on the NBC smash medical drama ER, has a long list of acting credentials to his name, on both the small and silver screens. Having made a smooth transition into directing and producing, with his production company Humble Journey Films, La Salle is as comfortable behind the camera as he is in front of it. As a restaurant and food enthusiast, Eriq enjoys being able to count on a great meal at BLT while he's at home in Los Angeles or in New York, where he's just wrapped up directing an episode of the hit NBC show Law & Order: SVU.

What is your favorite dish at BLT Steak LA?

Even though I'm not a meat eater, I'm a big fan of the seafood and chicken dishes at BLT Steak, as well as the appetizers and the popovers.

Do you have a favorite table?

It depends on my mood: If I'm with friends, anywhere is good; but if I'm feeling mellow, I prefer a quieter spot.

Have you dined at any other BLT restaurants across the country?

Because I like the BLT in L.A. so much, I tried the original location in New York during a recent visit and was equally impressed!

What is your beverage of choice? I enjoy the Summerland Pinot Noir. What are some of your favorite food memories?

My mother's cooking set the standard growing up. I love eating well when I travel abroad, and I especially enjoy the food in Italy, where I often frequent.

What is your favorite food indulgence?

Olive oil with warm bread. I also have a weak spot for chocolate desserts and crème brûlée, and I do enjoy seasonal fruits.

Do you consider yourself an adventurous eater--and if so, what's the most unusual meal or ingredient you have ever tasted?

I sampled the "pistol" of a conch in Turks & Caicos, which I think solidifies my qualifications as an adventurous eater!

Do you enjoy cooking?

I love to cook. My signature dish would have to be seafood, ideally crab or lobster, cooked in my Japanese smoker.

Eight seasons with ER meant you were on set for long hours, day in and day out. What was your approach to maintaining a good diet?

It's easier to find a plentiful supply of junk food at craft services than any variety of interesting healthier options, so self-discipline is the key.

What is your favorite way to spend a day off in L.A.?

Up in the mountains, on a lake.

Your career started in front of the camera and now includes more time behind it: producing, directing, and even cowriting screenplays. What aspect do you enjoy most?

They are all blessings, but the most challenging and rewarding is directing.

What can we expect from you next, either on or off screen?

I recently directed another episode of Law & Order: SVU that will air soon, and I'm about to start directing an episode of ER. I plan to direct more episodes of other TV shows later this year.