Fia

My brother Gary and Ramon invited me and Sandi for dinner to celebrate our birthdays. My son happened to be home, so he, too was invited. Gary and Ramon have been to Fia numerous times and loved it.

We were seated outside and though Sandi and I usually don't like sitting outside, this was very nice. The whimsical garden had an enclosure and also had heaters which they didn't have to turn on last night.

It was decided to order family style which I love because if you order something that's not too exciting, you are not stuck with it. Ramon and Gary's suggestions sounded good plus whatever else we thought we'd enjoy. We started with two orders of the Spicy Salmon Tartare Cones with avocado mousse and salmon caviar. I think I could have eaten 6 of those. It was pure heaven! Sandi didn't want any, and I almost asked her to have a bite but decided against it as it was to precious to share.

The Salt & Pepper Calamari with aioli nero and blistered shishitos with lime was also super crunchy and delicious. The Burrata with panko-crusted asparagus was enjoyed by everyone. We also had the Grilled Spanish Octopus with salsa macha, and grilled avocado. Sandi was immediately turned off when she saw the tentacles and since she didn't intend to try it, we insisted she eat the rest of the avocado.

The Lobster Capellini "El Nero" with basil and tomatoes were cooked to perfection with chunks of tender lobster meat. The Braised Short Rib with truffle honey, rutabaga, beef eggroll and creamed spinach was excellent. The meat was so tender and juicy.

We had to have veggies, so Gary thought the Roasted Cauliflower with shallots, ginger, mint and chili would be a good addition. The cauliflower was good but it was nothing special. It was decided to order another item. Handmade Cavatelli with parmesan, brown butter, and freshly shaved black truffle was a great finale to the meal. It was rich but just divine.

They presented Sandi with a chocolate cupcake for her birthday. We ordered two desserts to share. One Amalfi Lemon Mousse Cake and the Cascading Tiramisu, with espresso-soaked lady fingers and mascarpone mousse and chocolate sorbet. The tiramisu had a very impressive presentation. Both desserts were excellent. I would have preferred the tiramisu to be a bit stronger in the coffee flavor, but that's just me.

We all enjoyed the meal and the company. Thank you, Gary and Ramon, for an unforgettable birthday celebration. 

Fia is located at 2454 Wilshire Blvd. in Santa Monica, California.