Lodge + Dine announces a 5-star rating for Fia Restaurant after a day’s visit evaluating the guest experience. The restaurant dazzled particularly with its romantic garden setting, exceptional Italian culinary creations, and refined bar program.
As evening falls over Santa Monica, the smoky aroma of seared steak drifts through the garden, mingling with laughter and conversation to create an atmosphere both indulgent and inviting. Fia Restaurant is not simply a place to dine—it’s an escape into a coastal dreamscape that marries California cool with Italian romance. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast and carrying the name of St. Fiacre, the patron saint of gardeners, the establishment thrives on creating a dining experience where atmosphere and flavor intertwine seamlessly.
The setting alone is enough to captivate. Whether enjoying the airy garden terrace or the vibrant Grill Room adorned with Jonas Never’s mural of Los Angeles culture, guests feel immersed in a layered story of art, history, and design. Inside, the stained glass tribute to St. Fiacre by Judson Studios adds a reverent touch, while outside, the high-end tiki bar–style hangout, surrounded by twinkling lights and fireplaces, encourages hours of conversation over cocktails.
The menu bridges Italian tradition with California’s farm-fresh sensibility. Organic produce arrives daily from farms no farther than 50 miles away, and the dishes are built around both seasonality and creativity. The Prime Beef Tartare, accented with smoked paprika aioli and pickled fennel, arrives as a bold opening statement, while the Hamachi Crudo, layered with lime leaf and coconut dressing, evokes coastal freshness with every bite. For a heartier indulgence, the housemade tagliatelle topped with spicy Wagyu Bolognese delivers depth and comfort, while the Creekstone Farms Prime New York Steak “au poivre,” meant for sharing, turns dinner into a communal celebration. Dessert closes on a decadent note with the Manjari chocolate soufflé, its richness balanced by a bright Grand Marnier anglaise.
Complementing the cuisine is a thoughtful bar program that balances elegance with playfulness. In the open-air lounge, signature cocktails feel tailor-made for the atmosphere. Dean Martin’s “Kick in the Head”—a sophisticated blend of Beluga Gold Vodka, vermouth rinse, lemon twist, and a spoonful of Ossetra caviar—feels as indulgent as it sounds. For those seeking a lighter sip, the Lucille Ball–inspired “I Love Lychee” non-alcoholic martini combines champagne notes, lime, and lychee honey syrup for a refreshing alternative. The drinks echo the same balance of whimsy and refinement found in the food, ensuring every guest finds their perfect pairing.
Service at this venue aligns perfectly with its spirit—friendly, approachable, yet impeccably attentive. Staff carry a genuine warmth, encouraging guests to relax into the experience while ensuring each detail, from wine pairing to pacing of courses, is handled with finesse.
Fia Restaurant delivers a dining experience designed for more than just a meal. It’s a stage for romantic evenings under the stars, a stylish spot to toast life’s milestones, or simply a refined yet relaxed escape for those who believe dining should feel like both a celebration and a journey.
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