Wood and Water is a modern, American restaurant on Ventura Blvd., and while it’s a solid place to meet co-worker for some drinks after work, the food is a bit underwhelming. The crispy lobster sliders are a highlight, but when coupled with deep-fried duck egg rolls, mushroom ravioli, and short rib wellington, you’re breathing starts to morph into a slow wheeze. We want to feel like we’re eating dinner at a restaurant, not at a VIP buffet inside a basketball arena.