0 Followers
Pasjoli
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Pasjoli
8.8
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Business Lunch Power Players
Instagram Worthy Wonders
James Beard Award-winning chef Dave Beran transformed his Michelin Plate bistro into a more accessible French experience while maintaining exacting standards. The pressed duck carved tableside remains legendary, but cordon bleu chicken wings stuffed with prosciutto and a French onion soup with explosive gruyère show the kitchen's playful mastery of rich, butter-forward bistro classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cordon Bleu Chicken Wings, French Onion Soup, Pressed Duck ($350, reservation required)
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized bistro from Alinea alum serving technically perfect French fare with California produce
Who should go: Special occasion diners seeking refined French without stuffiness
When to visit: Tuesday-Thursday dinner for easier reservations, avoid peak weekends
What to order: Cordon bleu wings, French onion soup, steak frites with peppercorn sauce
Insider tip: The $350 pressed duck requires advance reservation but the à la carte menu offers better value
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available $15, street parking on Main Street challenging after 5pm, small public lot 2 blocks south at Strand
Dress code: Dressy casual - button-downs and dresses preferred, clean dark jeans acceptable but avoid athletic wear
Noise level: Intimate and conversational - soft acoustics allow normal dinner conversation without competing with neighbors
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins rarely accommodated Friday-Saturday, 2-3 week booking window typical
Weekday lunch: Dinner-only service (closed lunch)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - 3-4 options including seasonal vegetable preparations, but menu heavily focuses on meat and seafood
Vegan options: Very limited - chef can accommodate with advance notice but not the kitchen's strength
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates with modifications, bread service has GF option, several naturally GF entrées available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice if you want to impress - the elegant but unpretentious atmosphere and exceptional food create natural conversation topics. Just know it's a splurge ($150-200pp with wine), so better for when you're trying to make a statement.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely difficult. Bar seating sometimes available for walk-ins Tuesday-Thursday before 6:30pm, but dining room reservations book 2-3 weeks ahead. Use Resy alerts or call day-of for cancellations.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - no kids menu, sophisticated quiet atmosphere, and rich French preparations that aren't typically kid favorites. Mature teens comfortable with fine dining would be fine, especially for celebrations.
How long should I expect dinner to take? Plan for 2-2.5 hours for full experience. Service is attentive but European-paced. If you're time-constrained, let your server know upfront and skip the pressed duck (requires 45+ minutes).
Is it worth the price? Yes if you appreciate technique-driven French cuisine with impeccable ingredients. The execution rivals much pricier LA fine dining. Skip if you're looking for large portions or casual bistro vibes - this is refined and precise.
Best For
Better for: Pasjoli excels when you want Michelin-caliber French technique without the formality or three-hour commitment of Providence or Mélisse. The à la carte flexibility beats tasting-menu-only spots, and Dave Beran's playful touches (those cordon bleu wings) make it less intimidating than traditional haute French.
Skip if: Choose Petit Trois if you want casual French bistro energy and lower prices. Pick Republique for daytime French pastries and brunch. Go to Horses if you want similar price point but prefer Italian coastal flavors. Skip Pasjoli if butter-forward richness isn't your thing - this kitchen doesn't apologize for decadence.
Pasjoli
9.1
Chef Dave Beran's Michelin-starred French bistro serves one of LA's most celebrated restaurant burgers with marrow aioli and caramelized onions. The grass-fed Wagyu patty arrives perfectly cooked in an elegant space buzzing with Main Street energy, though securing this coveted burger requires planning ahead.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Burger, Pressed Duck, Chocolate Soufflé
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Michelin-starred bistro's destination burger with marrow aioli and precise technique
Who should go: Special occasion diners and serious burger enthusiasts
When to visit: Early menu 5-6 PM for more affordable pricing
What to order: The Burger, Cordon Bleu Chicken Wings, chocolate soufflé
Insider tip: Bar seats are first-come, first-served if dining room is fully booked
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available $15, street parking on Main Street competitive but turns over. Small public lot on Hill Street 2 blocks away.
Dress code: Elevated casual to business casual - dark jeans acceptable but this is a Michelin-starred environment. Most guests dress up.
Noise level: Moderate sophistication - designed for conversation. Buzzy during prime hours but acoustics allow for intimate dialogue.
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - book 2-3 weeks ahead. Walk-in bar seats sometimes available but expect 30-45 min wait.
Weekday lunch: Not offered - dinner only Tuesday-Saturday starting at 5 PM.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - this is a French bistro focused on meat/seafood. 1-2 vegetable-forward dishes available but not the strength.
Vegan options: Very limited - call ahead. Kitchen can accommodate but menu not designed for plant-based dining.
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen experienced with modifications. Burger can be served without bun, many dishes naturally GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for 3rd+ dates or confident first impressions - the $$$$ price point and refined atmosphere create romance, but may feel too formal for casual getting-to-know-you energy. Perfect if you want to impress.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very difficult. Your best bet: arrive at 5 PM opening for bar seats (first-come, first-served) or call day-of for cancellations. Weekend walk-ins nearly impossible.
Is it kid-friendly? Technically yes, but atmosphere leans adult. Well-behaved older children (10+) fit better than toddlers. No kids menu - you're ordering à la carte at luxury prices. Consider earlier 5-6 PM slot if bringing family.
How long should I plan for dinner? Budget 2-2.5 hours for full experience. This is paced fine dining, not a quick burger stop. If time-constrained, sit at the bar and order strategically.
Is the burger actually worth the hype and price? Yes, if you understand what you're getting - this isn't a $15 smash burger, it's a $32 Michelin-technique Wagyu experience with marrow aioli and flawless execution. Critics and chefs consistently rank it among LA's best. Worth it for special occasions.
Best For
Better for: Elevated burger experience in a sophisticated French setting - you get Michelin-level technique, premium ingredients, and refined atmosphere. Best choice when the burger is part of a special night out, not the only focus.
Skip if: You want a casual, affordable burger night or prefer generous portions over precision. If you're uncomfortable with $$$$ pricing for what's technically bar food, or need guaranteed walk-in availability, choose a more approachable spot.
Pasjoli
8.9
James Beard Award-winning Chef Dave Beran's French bistro delivers tableside pressed duck and modern French classics in a buzzy, wood-beamed space with exposed brick. The restaurant pivoted from formal tasting menus to approachable à la carte dining while maintaining exacting standards and rich, butter-laden bistro fare.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cordon Bleu Chicken Wings, Pressed Duck for Two, Burnt Basque Cheesecake
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Chef Dave Beran bringing refined French technique to approachable bistro fare with theatrical tableside duck service
Who should go: Date nights, special occasions, French food enthusiasts
When to visit: Dinner reservations required, reserve 30 days ahead
What to order: Cordon bleu wings, mini French onion soup, pressed duck experience ($350)
Insider tip: The early menu served 5-6pm offers more affordable options
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - metered until 6pm ($2/hr), free after. Arrive early or use nearby public lot on 2nd Street ($8 flat)
Dress code: Elevated casual to smart - no shorts or flip-flops, but jeans with a nice top work fine
Noise level: Lively but conversational - wood-beamed acoustics create energy without shouting
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins rarely accommodated, book 30 days out
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch - dinner only Tuesday-Sunday
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful - 3-4 options including stellar vegetable sides, but this is butter-forward French cooking
Vegan options: Challenging - best to call ahead, most dishes built on dairy and animal fats
Gluten-free options: Possible with modifications - kitchen accommodates but French bistro staples are flour-heavy
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent if you're confident in the connection - the refined atmosphere and $$$$ pricing signal serious intent. Skip if you want casual vibes or need flexibility to leave early.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely unlikely Friday-Sunday. Weekday early seating (5-6pm) gives you the best shot, but expect a bar wait or to be turned away during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Mature tweens/teens who can appreciate fine dining - yes. Young kids - no. The refined atmosphere and leisurely service (2+ hours) make this adult-focused.
How much should I budget per person? $100-150 per person with wine, more if you order the pressed duck ($175 per person). The early menu drops that to $75-100.
Is it worth the hype and price? If you value chef-driven French technique and aren't counting pennies - absolutely. If you want 'good value' or casual bistro vibes, there are better options on the Westside.
Best For
Better for: Choose Pasjoli when you want James Beard-level execution in a buzzy-but-refined setting - it splits the difference between stuffy fine dining and casual bistros. The pressed duck is a bucket-list experience.
Skip if: You want relaxed French bistro charm without the fuss (try Petit Trois), need a casual/affordable date spot, or prefer Italian/other cuisines - Santa Monica has dozens of great alternatives without the commitment.
Pasjoli
8.9
Chef Dave Beran's French bistro evolved from formal tasting menus to laidback elegance with pressed duck and butter-laden classics. The wood-beam dining room buzzes with energy while maintaining exacting standards on dishes like basque cheesecake that helped launch LA's obsession.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tableside Pressed Duck, Burnt Basque Cheesecake, Beef Tartare with Nasturtium Pesto
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 9
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Michelin Plate restaurant from James Beard winner balances French technique with California ease
Who should go: French food lovers wanting bistro classics without stuffiness
When to visit: Dinner nightly, pressed duck requires advance reservation
What to order: Pressed duck for two, basque cheesecake, any daily special
Insider tip: Early menu 5-6pm offers same quality at lower prices
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available $15, metered street parking on Main St (free after 6pm weekdays, challenging weekends)
Dress code: Elevated casual to business casual - dark jeans acceptable but most dress up
Noise level: Lively but conversational - wood beams absorb sound despite full dining room energy
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins rarely seated, 2+ week advance booking recommended
Weekday lunch: Dinner-only service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful - 2-3 seasonal options showcasing French technique with vegetables
Vegan options: Very limited - best to call ahead, chef can accommodate with notice
Gluten-free options: Some adaptations possible - sauces and preparations are naturally gluten-light, communicate needs when booking
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate lighting and noise level allow conversation, impressive without being intimidating. The evolved bistro format feels special but not stuffy. Book the early menu (5-6pm) if budget is a concern.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very difficult - bar seating sometimes available for walk-ins weeknights before 6:30pm, but this is a reservation-essential restaurant. Book 2-3 weeks out for prime times.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - sophisticated atmosphere and 2+ hour meal pace suit teens and older. No kids menu, though kitchen accommodates simple requests.
How much should I budget per person? $100-150 per person with wine, $75-90 for early menu. Pressed duck adds $35pp and requires pre-order but is the signature experience.
Is it worth the hype? Yes for French food devotees - Dave Beran's technique is elite-level, and the shift from tasting menu to bistro made it more approachable without sacrificing quality. The basque cheesecake alone launched imitators citywide.
Best For
Better for: Classic French bistro executed at Michelin-level precision with California ingredients - beats competitors on technical skill while maintaining warmth. Best-in-class for pressed duck and French fundamentals done right.
Skip if: You want casual/quick dining, need extensive vegetarian options, or prefer modern fusion over traditional French technique. Also skip if you're looking for value - this is premium pricing for premium execution.
Pasjoli
8.9
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Chef Dave Beran transformed this once-formal tasting menu restaurant into a lively French bistro where classic technique meets California ease. The wood-beamed space buzzes with energy as diners share steak tartare with nasturtium pesto and the legendary tableside pressed duck that remains a special occasion centerpiece.
Must-Try Dishes:
Canard à la Presse (Pressed Duck), Steak Tartare with Nasturtium, Basque Cheesecake
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Michelin Plate bistro serving elevated French classics with tableside pressed duck theatrics
Who should go: Francophiles and special occasion diners seeking refined yet approachable
When to visit: Dinner Tuesday-Saturday, reserve pressed duck 48 hours ahead
What to order: Pressed duck for two, beef tartare, Basque cheesecake
Insider tip: The pressed duck experience ($350) requires advance booking by email
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available $15, street parking on Main Street challenging after 6pm - arrive early or use lot on Ocean Park
Dress code: Elevated casual to business casual - nice jeans acceptable but most guests dress up for the occasion
Noise level: Lively but conversational - the bistro energy creates buzz without overwhelming intimate conversation
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins rarely seated, 30-day booking window fills fast
Weekday lunch: Dinner only Tuesday-Saturday, no lunch service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but elevated - 2-3 seasonal vegetable preparations that receive equal attention to proteins
Vegan options: Very limited - best to call ahead, kitchen can accommodate with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates with modifications, inform server when booking
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for 2nd-3rd dates or established relationships - the energy and price point ($100-150pp) suggest confidence over casual getting-to-know-you vibes
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely difficult - bar seating sometimes available Tuesday-Thursday before 6:30pm, but calling day-of is your only shot
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal - sophisticated atmosphere and prix fixe pacing better suit teens 14+ who appreciate fine dining, no children's menu
How long does dinner take? Plan 2-2.5 hours for full experience, longer if ordering pressed duck (requires 45min tableside prep)
Is the pressed duck worth it? Absolutely for special occasions - the $350 tableside theater and sublime duck execution justify advance planning, serves 2 generously
Best For
Better for: Special occasion French dining with California sensibility - more approachable than Mélisse, more refined than Rustic Canyon, best pressed duck experience in LA
Skip if: You want casual drop-in dining, need extensive vegetarian options, or prefer quiet romantic ambiance over energetic bistro buzz
Pasjoli
8.5
James Beard Award-winning chef Dave Beran's French bistro underwent a makeover from fine dining to approachable elegance, now serving rich butter-laden classics alongside market-driven small plates. The pressed duck tableside spectacle remains available for $350, but the real draw is cordon bleu chicken wings oozing prosciutto and cheese, mini French onion soup with bubbling gruyère, and the city's best Basque cheesecake.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cordon Bleu Chicken Wings, French Onion Souplette, Basque Cheesecake
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Michelin-starred French cuisine with tableside pressed duck service and polished bistro classics
Who should go: Special occasion diners and French food enthusiasts
When to visit: Dinner Tuesday through Saturday for full menu experience
What to order: Chicken wings, French onion soup, pressed duck (by reservation)
Insider tip: Early menu served 5-6pm offers more affordable pricing
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available for $15, street parking on Main Street is challenging during dinner hours - arrive early or use nearby paid lot on Ashland Ave
Dress code: Elevated casual to business casual - nice jeans acceptable but most guests dress up for the refined atmosphere
Noise level: Intimate and conversation-friendly - designed for date nights with well-spaced tables and soft acoustics
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins typically quoted 90+ minutes Friday-Saturday after 6:30pm
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only Tuesday through Saturday starting at 5pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful - 3-4 options including seasonal vegetable preparations and cheese courses, though menu leans heavily French traditional
Vegan options: Very limited - chef can accommodate with advance notice but this is a butter-and-cream-forward kitchen
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen can modify most dishes and offers gluten-free bread, though some classics like the chicken wings are trickier
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice if you want to impress - the romantic lighting, refined atmosphere, and shareable small plates create natural conversation opportunities. The $$$-price means it signals effort without the pressure of a $350 pressed duck commitment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very difficult on weekends. Your best bet is arriving right at 5pm opening or trying for bar seating Tuesday-Thursday. The early menu (5-6pm) is easier to snag walk-in spots and offers better value.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really - the intimate date-night vibe and higher price point make this better for teens and up. No kids menu, though kitchen will modify dishes. Most diners are couples or groups celebrating special occasions.
How long should I plan for dinner? Budget 2-2.5 hours for the full experience with small plates and mains. The tableside pressed duck service (if you order it) adds theatrical flair and extends dinner to 3 hours - but requires advance reservation.
What's the deal with the pressed duck? It's Dave Beran's signature showpiece - a whole duck carved tableside, pressed to extract juices, and served in multiple courses for $350. You must reserve it 48 hours ahead. Honestly, most guests are thrilled with the more accessible chicken wings and bistro classics.
Best For
Better for: Special occasions requiring sophistication without stuffiness - Pasjoli nails the balance between Michelin-caliber technique and approachable bistro warmth. The tableside theater and Instagram-worthy plating justify the premium over casual French spots, while the refined-yet-relaxed vibe beats overly formal fine dining competitors.
Skip if: You want casual French bistro prices or a lively group atmosphere - this is decidedly upscale and intimate. If you're looking for traditional French without the scene, try Mélisse nearby. For budget-friendly French comfort food, République offers better value with a livelier energy.