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Somni
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Somni
9.4
This 3-Michelin-starred theatrical dining experience offers a 20-course Spanish tasting menu in an intimate converted bungalow. Chef Aitor Zabala's avant-garde approach to Catalan cuisine creates a dreamlike culinary journey with meticulously crafted small plates featuring textures, temperatures, and whimsical presentations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shiso Tartare Tempura, Mussel Escabeche, Gazpacho Course
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 9.5
Consistency: 9.4
Food Quality: 9.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.6
What makes it special: LA's most expensive restaurant with 3 Michelin stars and theatrical presentation
Who should go: Special occasion diners seeking ultimate culinary experience
When to visit: Reservation required, single seating at 7:30pm
What to order: 20-course tasting menu, chef's selection only
Insider tip: Only 14 seats available, book months in advance
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Complimentary valet service provided - street parking extremely limited in this West Hollywood area
Dress code: Jacket required, elegant attire expected - think special occasion formal
Noise level: Whisper quiet - intimate 14-seat setting perfect for deep conversation
Weekend wait: Single seating only at 7:30pm - no walk-ins accepted
Weekday lunch: Dinner service only - no lunch offered
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Available with 48-hour advance notice - chef creates custom vegetarian tasting
Vegan options: Accommodated with 72-hour notice - modified plant-based tasting menu
Gluten-free options: Expertly handled with advance notice - separate prep protocols in place
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want to make an extremely bold impression - this is more 'marriage proposal' than first date territory given the $300+ per person cost and 3.5-hour commitment
Can I get a table without a reservation? Absolutely impossible - reservations book 2-3 months out and there are only 14 seats total
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for children under 12 - the 20-course experience takes 3+ hours and requires sophisticated palate appreciation
Best For
Better for: Once-in-a-lifetime culinary theater and ultimate special occasions where money is no object - this is LA's most exclusive dining experience
Skip if: You want casual conversation, are budget-conscious, have dietary restrictions without advance planning, or prefer familiar flavors over avant-garde cuisine
Somni
9.3
Chef Aitor Zabala's three-Michelin-starred Spanish tasting menu restaurant offers a theatrical fine dining experience with meticulously crafted small bites. The intimate 14-seat venue presents Spanish-inflected contemporary cuisine with dishes like mussel escabeche and shiso tartare tempura.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shiso Tartare Tempura, Mussel Escabeche, Gazpacho
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 9.5
Consistency: 9.4
Food Quality: 9.8
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9.6
What makes it special: Three Michelin stars and theatrical chef's table experience
Who should go: Fine dining enthusiasts seeking exceptional cuisine
When to visit: Single seating at 7:30pm, Wednesday-Sunday only
What to order: 20-course tasting menu, wine pairing, signature gazpacho
Insider tip: Book months in advance; only 14 seats available nightly
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking $15, extremely limited street parking in West Hollywood evening hours
Dress code: Upscale elegant - jacket recommended for men, no shorts or athletic wear
Noise level: Intimate and quiet - perfect for conversation at chef's table
Weekend wait: No walk-ins - reservation required months in advance
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - advance notice required for modified tasting menu
Vegan options: Limited - chef can accommodate with 48hr advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - notify when booking, chef will adapt courses
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're both serious foodies - the intimate 14-seat setting and 3-hour commitment creates intense closeness that might feel overwhelming for a first meeting
Can I get a table without a reservation? Absolutely not - with only 14 seats and one seating nightly, reservations open 60 days in advance and fill within hours
Is it kid-friendly? Not appropriate for children - the 3-hour tasting menu and sophisticated atmosphere requires mature diners, minimum age typically 12+
Best For
Better for: Unparalleled Spanish modernist cuisine and theatrical chef interaction you won't find at Republique or Providence
Skip if: You prefer à la carte ordering, need flexibility with timing, or want a lively atmosphere - try Bavel or Gwen instead