News Summary
Los Angeles is rejuvenating its fine dining scene with the addition of Seline and Somni. Seline, located on Main Street, offers a unique tasting experience led by Michelin-starred chef Dave Beran, while Somni, in West Hollywood, presents over 20 courses crafted by Aitor Zabala. Both establishments focus on quality ingredients and modern aesthetics, promising diners an innovative and upscale culinary journey.
Los Angeles Unveils New Fine Dining Gems: Seline and Somni
Los Angeles is buzzing with excitement as the culinary scene experiences a refreshing revival in fine dining! With the closure of notable spots like Curtis Stone’s Maude and Walter Manzke’s eponymous restaurant last year, many diners worried about where to get their gourmet fix. But fear not, food enthusiasts, because two incredible newcomers are stepping up to the plate: Seline and Somni.
Location, Location, Location!
Let’s talk about where you can enjoy these innovative tasting menus! Seline has set up shop on lower Santa Monica’s Main Street, taking over the space that was once home to none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger’s restaurant, Schatzi. It’s exciting to see a new life breathed into such an iconic location!
Meanwhile, Somni offers a unique experience nestled behind Dan Tana’s and the Troubadour on Nemo Street in West Hollywood. The atmosphere in both venues strikes a perfect balance of casual elegance that invites diners to unwind while indulging in extraordinary culinary creations.
Meet the Chefs and Their Creations
The mastermind behind Seline is none other than chef-owner Dave Beran, who’s made a name for himself with previous stints at Chicago’s acclaimed Alinea and earning a Michelin star for Dialogue in Santa Monica. At Seline, his menu is a gastronomical wonderland featuring mesmerizing dishes like malted bananas, deconstructed squab, and even a stunning freeze-dried chestnut ice cream. A lavish experience at Seline comes at $295 per person, promising to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
On the other side of town, Aitor Zabala has taken the helm at Somni, transforming it into a spacious and breezy dining destination that serves over 20 courses! Diners can relish in dishes such as parmesan “feathers”, shiso tartare tempura, and oxtail buns, all for $495 per person. The creativity and presentation of these dishes make them not just meals, but art!
Adaptation and Innovation
Both restaurants are reflecting the evolving tastes and needs of their clientele while maintaining a razor-sharp focus on quality. As diners’ preferences shift, Seline and Somni are ahead of the curve, regularly updating their menus based on seasonal ingredients. This makes each visit feel unique, even for regular patrons!
Additionally, both establishments have embraced modern aesthetics by investing in bespoke tableware and opting out of traditional tablecloths. This contemporary touch creates an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy their meals with a hint of sparkle.
The Future of Fine Dining
Interestingly, both chefs recognize the changing landscape of fine dining. Today’s diners are looking for more than just an educational experience; they want special moments and meals that can be immortalized on social media. This trend has led to a more casual vibe, where it’s perfectly acceptable to dine in sneakers and ballcaps while enjoying a high-end meal.
Moreover, both chefs have noted the significant rise in ingredient and labor costs. This has naturally influenced their menus and creativity, making them more conscious of resource management without compromising quality.
One striking change is the evolution of service roles within the restaurant. In today’s world, cooks are often the ones delivering the dishes to diners, which has altered the traditional dynamic found in fine dining—and it seems to be working in their favor!
The Los Angeles Dining Experience
Los Angeles is known for its less rigid approach to fine dining, allowing chefs like Beran and Zabala to break conventional rules and flex their culinary muscles. Seline and Somni are not just adding to the fine dining conversation; they’re redefining it, offering a fresh take on what it means to dine luxuriously in the City of Angels.
As you navigate your culinary adventures, don’t miss the chance to experience these innovative establishments that promise to tantalize your taste buds and redefine your understanding of upscale dining.
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Additional Resources
- Hollywood Reporter: Los Angeles Fine Dining
- Eater: Best New Restaurants in Los Angeles
- Wallpaper: New Restaurants in Los Angeles
- Time Out: Best Restaurants in Los Angeles
- LAist: Restaurant Prices and Their Impact
- Wikipedia: Fine Dining
