Fia Restaurant on the West Side - Santa Monica

 My second favorite Los Angeles restaurant of 2023 

My second favorite restaurant of 2023 is the Michelin-recognized Fia Restaurant. In the heart of the West Side is Fia, and Fia is phenomenal. Walking into the restaurant, I felt transported into a secret garden far from LA. After a walk down a narrow alley, you fall into this lush, romantic, sexy oasis. I was giddy by this hidden whimsical gem off Wilshire. If you're coming to visit Los Angeles or live here, this is a full stop. 
With its chic ambiance, innovative menu highlighting California and Italian coastal cuisine, and commitment to locally sourced ingredients, Fia promises an unforgettable dining experience. Having recently visited this establishment, I am excited to share my insights into what makes Fia a standout destination for food enthusiasts.
For starters, I ordered the Yellowtail, tiger's milk, radish, and Fresno chili from the In The Raw section of the menu. The Yellowtail Tiger's Milk appetizer is a visual delight that arrives at the table like a work of art. The citrus-infused "tiger's milk " enhances the yellowtail's delicate texture," a flavorful marinade that bathes the fish and imparts a zesty brightness to every bite. 5/5
Yellowtail in Tiger's Milk 
Homemade cavatelli pasta was 5/5. The first thing that stands out is the freshness of the pasta. Each piece of cavatelli boasts a tender, satisfying texture. The pasta is a canvas for absorbing the rich flavors of the generously coated creamy parmesan and brown butter sauce ace seasoned shaved black truffle. It creates a delightful mouthfeel with every bite. The seasoning is incredible, allowing the natural taste of the ingredientscompanied by th to shine through.
The lobster Capellini "El Nero" with basil and San Marzano tomatoes is a 5/5 dish. San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the gold standard in tomatoes. Originating from the rich volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius in the Campania region of Italy, these tomatoes have earned a reputation for their unparalleled sweetness, low acidity, and exceptional texture. The succulent pieces of lobster are the stars of this dish, delicately woven into the capellini pasta, creating a melody of fresh flavors. The lobster is perfectly cooked, offering a sweet and tender contrast to the pasta's delicate texture.
The Lobster Capellini "El Nero"

Whether you're in town for beaches and sunshine, traveling to the West Side or neaby shopping in downtown Santa Monica, Fia Restaurant is a sure stop! I was able to find street parking, right across the street with no charge.

XO,Natalie

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