Lodge + Dine announces a 5-star rating for Élephante after a day’s visit evaluating the guest experience. The restaurant impressed greatly with its coastal views, Italian cuisine, and exceptional service.
An easy ocean breeze greets guests on the terrace, setting the tone for a relaxed yet lively evening. With waves in the distance and daylight fading into soft amber, the atmosphere strikes a balance between casual coastal charm and polished sophistication. It’s the kind of place where afternoons transition seamlessly into spirited nights, making every visit feel like an occasion.
The Élephante draws inspiration from southern Italy, particularly the relaxed charm of Pantelleria and the Aeolian Islands. From the moment guests step onto the terrace, they are transported: sandy neutral tones, woven textures, and greenery blur the line between indoors and outdoors, while stone accents and bamboo shades temper the natural light with a soft, golden warmth. The vibe strikes a rare balance—hip and energetic, yet calm and refined. Whether seated on the ocean view balcony, tucked into the cactus garden for a semi-private gathering, or within the glow of the fireplace inside, every angle feels curated yet effortlessly inviting.
The culinary concept transports diners to southern Italy, the menu is grounded in Italian coastal tradition but elevated with modern flair. Starters like the pork and beef meatballs, bathed in spicy tomato sauce and topped with ricotta and parmigiano, bring familiar comfort with layered depth. For mains, the branzino with salsa verde butter, sea beans, and lemon is light yet rich with seaside flavors, while the veal Milanese—panko breaded and served with spicy salsa verde and wild arugula—delivers both indulgence and elegance. Health-conscious diners can turn to the Tuscan kale salad, brightened by crisp apple, pepitas, and a tangy gorgonzola vinaigrette.
No Italian-inspired meal is complete without pasta and pizza: the gemelli scampi, with squid ink pasta and chili-laced rosé sauce, or the artichoke pizza, topped with Italian sausage, caramelized shallots, and ricotta salata, bring a true taste of Italy. To finish, the pavlova—layered with white chocolate mousse, passion fruit, and tres leches ice cream—is a showstopper for those with a sweet tooth.
The bar program enhances the dining experience with precision and creativity. Classic cocktails, espresso martinis, and a thoughtful wine list are all available, but signature offerings deserve special mention. The Élephante cocktail, customizable with a choice of base spirit, blends passion fruit, almond orgeat, Montenegro, and Calabrian chili into a drink that is equal parts adventurous and refreshing. Meanwhile, Bird of a Feather layers gin, lemon, grapefruit, bergamot rosolio, and Earl Grey tea into a fragrant shaken cocktail, finished with sparkling water—a drink as elegant as the setting itself.
Service enhances the atmosphere seamlessly. Staff members are warm, attentive, and knowledgeable, striking the perfect balance between professional and personable. Their genuine enthusiasm for guiding guests through the menu makes the experience feel tailored and thoughtful.
The Élephante is ideal for those seeking an elegant evening against the backdrop of the ocean, whether for a romantic date, a lively dinner with friends, or a stylish afternoon escape. Élephante delivers more than fine dining—it offers an immersion into coastal Italian lifestyle, right in the heart of Los Angeles.
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