Somni. It’s finally here. So let’s go!!!
Chefs José Andrés and Aitor Zabala, both ex-El Bulli alumni, have once again collaborated to bring the Spanish avant garde to Los Angeles. The setting is the former Saam space in the SLS hotel Beverly Hills. The buildout is remarkable, and very much in keeping with Chef Andrés’ aesthetic. (The meal itself is full of wonderful surprises for the diner, so descriptions of dishes may be intentionally vague…)
Homage to El Bulli…
Aperitif: Prosecco…
“Hojita”…
Pan con tomate y jamón… No Catalonian-inspired meal is complete without reference to the delicious “pa amb tomaquet” (bread with tomato)!
Almond shell…
Apple floret, cheese & beet…
“Piggy” de manteca colorada…
Wine pairing…
Neat presentation!
Bumping fists with the chef…
Caviar & truffle…
Nori dumpling…
Spot prawn & that’s it…
Wine pairing…
Pigtail curry bun…
Flavor infusion by Chef Zabala…
Hibiscus margarita…
Christofle utensils… Opulent!
Live scallop…
Wine pairing…
Sommelier Brandon Miradi also pours non-alcoholic “syrah” as well!
Lamb, pine nut & herbs…
Egg, sea urchin & truffle…
Wine pairing…
Happiness exists on the line…
“Croissant”
Making sure the next dish is just right…
Two spoons needed!
Alubias con jamón…
Wine Pairing…
Pekin chili crab…
Steak knife… Beautiful, balanced and sharp!
Japanese A5 wagyu, from Kagoshima…
Japanese A5 & bone marrow…
Dessert time!!!
Wine pairing…
“Snowflake”
Vienetta…
Trio of final sweets (& pour-over coffee)…
Matcha doughnut…
Mochi…
Merienda…
Bravissimo! An incredible, intimate experience for all the senses! What a meal!!!
Service was impeccable and warm. The bar only seats 10, and there are only two seatings per evening (6pm and 8:30pm). I enjoyed my dinner at Somni immensely, and they’re only on their inaugural week of service. Even those of you who have previously dined at the Michelin 3-stars in Basque country would find something new and exciting at Somni.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Somni
SLS Hotel Beverly Hills
465 S. La Cienega Bl.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310.246.5555
website (with link to Tock reservation site)