L'Ami in Santa Monica Wows Diners with Brunch and New Year's Eve Offerings

We were in the Alps a few years ago, and it was divine, to say the least. And the food? There aren’t enough adjectives to describe it. Let it suffice to say that my pants were just a bit tighter upon my return.

Since I’m not big on long plane rides, it’s nice to know that we can have the Mediterranean experience right here in cozy Brentwood at L’Ami.

Upon entering, you are engulfed by an engaging patio. Heaters help if the winter chill is challenging, but if the outdoors is not on your agenda, head inside and park yourself next to the fireplace. All is good.

Today, the lovely Bella greeted us, her charm setting the tone for our excursion. Chef Francis Bey took it from there, taking us on a culinary adventure of some of his brunch and New Years Eve offerings. We were impressed.

Some of you may remember Bey from his 15 years at Lilly’s in Venice. L’Ami menu now pairs his many talents with owner Marc-Antoine Rambaud’s expertise. Inspired by Mediterranean influences, the dishes run the gamut of clean and refreshing, to sumptuously decadent. Be prepared to be wowed.

Fans of foie gras will delight in Bey’s preparation. Although a bit rich for me, their SEARED FOIE GRAS OVER BAKLAVA was favored by my dining companion who claimed that she could live on that alone. Available starting Dec. 14th.

From their brunch menu, we were glad to sample their BEETS & BURRATA TOWER, with Baby Arugula, Candied Walnuts & Basil Coulis. With just a bit of mortal sin, it provided an ample avenue of restraint before the real decadence began.

One of the best omelets I’ve experienced was the PARISIEN OMELET, stuffed with French Ham, Gruyère, Onion & Wild Mushrooms. The combination of flavors really wrestled with my taste buds. Many chefs overcook omelets. Not Frances Bey.

And the WILD MUSHROOM BENEDICT? Layered over Brioche Toast, with Hollandaise, this was a great departure from the ho-hum benedicts I usually have. It was nice to be surprised.

If this brunch is a prelude to what’s in store for New Years Eve, then those of you who don’t have plans should make them now. From the looks of the menu, and their medley of brunch items, I’m sure this place will be busy.

L'Ami

246 26th St, Santa Monica, CA 90402

Phone: (310) 310-8064

Reservations: opentable.com

office@lamierestaurant.com.

http://www.lamirestaurant.com/