A French Immersion on Main Street Santa Monica at Pasjoli
An approachable French bistro experience. For the culinary experts, this restaurant isn’t just an extremely aesthetically pleasing French spot for a Friday night date, but a craftsman’s ode to a perfectly curated culinary experience. The prices are high but the dishes prove themselves to be worthy of their respective price points.
Vibe
Indoors
There’s something beautiful to look at no matter where you sit. Gorgeous bar, beautiful banquettes and wall prints. A small couch area for the after dinner drink.
Patio
Small cafe bistro feel with hanging lights.. Contrast to the Main St vibe in Santa Monica, Pasjoli somehow quiets the noise around you to fully submerge you in the French bistro experience.
Details
Menu
Seasonally curated, decadent yet approachable, you’ll find menu items such as a whole stuffed quail with caramelized fennel ragoût and to fish and vegetarian entree items like California petrale sole with wilted fennel. Click here for the full current menu.
Reservations
Dinner starts at 5:15pm, walk-ins are welcome. Reservations are accepted 30 days in advance
Story
Opened in 2019 by Chef Dave Beran who, at the time, also owned Michelin star restaurant, Dialogue. One pandemic induced closure and a lost Michelin star later, Pasjoli has become the sole focus (for now) for Chef Beran. And the big ticket item you have to discuss with your table on potentially experiencing?
THE DUCK. $185 and an entire night experience, the duck is butchered table side, placed into giant vintage press until duck juice spills out into a teacup. This juice is then later added to a pan with Cognac, red wine, and pepper to create the sauce for the duck breast. If you’re at dinner with a few friends, the duck is a must try.