By Kathleen Sterling
Arched doorways leading to secluded patios shaded by palms. Slow ceiling fans and cool tile floors.
All the ambience of the Mediterranean is found at Mon Ami, a gorgeous restaurant tucked away off Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica.
You can miss the entrance as this former private club is secreted behind another building, which gives it nearness to the ocean without the bustle of the summer crowds.
Opened just a year ago, Mon Ami is already a favorite for those looking for the true Mediterranean experience – in both atmosphere and cuisine.
The curated menu offers a variety of choices with flavors and spices of Spain, Greece, Italy, France and Morocco, with ingredients sourced from local farmers markets.
Nas Negahban is a seasoned traveler determined to mirror the richness of Mediterranean culture – and his passion comes across in every detail, from picture-perfect cocktails and exquisitely plated food to late-night live entertainment.
One of his creations is the “First Class Series,” highlighting the cuisine of various countries. We attended Barcelona night, and were greeted with complimentary sangria before sitting down to an amazing meal of Spanish cuisine.
The First Class evenings feature five courses, beginning with a beautifully presented amuse bouche. For Barcelona night we nibbled on Iberian jamon with burrata and Calabrian chile on a crostini. Delicious and not too spicy! The tapas trio that followed – truffle mushroom, garlic shrimp and spicy tomato were delightful, and just the right size for a first course. The second course of grilled octopus atop patatas gravas was amazing – the crisp octopus with the flaky potato offered an amazing blend of flavors.
We chose the melt-in-your-mouth marinated skirt steak for our main – one of the best steaks I’ve had in years. So tender and flavorful.
Our meal was accompanied by a sparkling Cava brut rosé from Catalonia, and red and white wines. During dinner we were entertained by a lively flamenco guitarist and several dancers. It was an evening to remember, and a trip to the Med without leaving the city! Upcoming First-Class Series nights include Santorini on October 17 and Amalfi on November 14.
Mon Ami is located at 1541 Ocean Avenue, Suite 150. Call Mon Ami at (424) 645-5540 or visit monamism.com for reservations.
