Paso Robles’ Serial Wines Expands with Flavor and Filmmaking as ‘Official Wine’ at The San Diego International Film Festival
SERIAL WINES, PASO ROBLES FURTHER EXPANDS WITH TWO NEW BLENDS
Serial Wines, within the John Anthony Wine & Spirits portfolio, introduces two new wines in this series of winesshowcasing the exciting and fast-growing Paso Robles AVA: NEW Serial White Blend and NEW Serial Red Blend.
This extension of the Serial Wines collection comes days following the company’s announcement of expansion plans under the new name of John Anthony Wine & Spirits by Founder and CEO, John Anthony Truchard.
Paso Robles’ Serial Wines
The two new blends join Serial Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon already in distribution, plus a series of exclusive, AVA-designate and single-vineyard, direct-to-consumer offerings The new blends have been crafted to showcase the incredible biodiversity from Paso Robles—America’s favorite wine region (source: USAToday 2023).
“Creating Serial, a series of wines from the Paso Robles AVA,
has been a very exciting journey since our inaugural release in 2017.
This region has earned its place on the world-class wine stage with outstanding quality and value and we’ve seen demand sky rocket,”
John Anthony Truchard
Founder and CEO
John Anthony Wine & Spirits
“Adding new Serial White Blend and Serial Red Blend to Serial Cabernet really leans into the diverse terroir that Paso has to offer with unique, interesting, and unexpected blends that have exceptional depth and complexity. Exploring and investing in this fast-growing wine region has been rewarding and it was wonderful to see the reception to these wines at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen—some of the world’s most discerning wine lovers.”
The new 2023 Serial White Blend…is lively, lush, and layered
The new 2023 Serial White Blend, Paso Robles is lively, lush, and layered featuring Chardonnay supported by Viognier, Clairette Blanche, and Albariño.
Refreshingly acidic with a richness that lingers, this White Blend offers round flavors of lemon meringue, white peach, ripe pear, and marmalade, accented with a touch of marzipan on the finish. Gratifyingly complex and balanced, this wine was aged on neutral French oak with a kiss of lightly-toasted Acacia.
2021 Serial Red Blend…melds power with elegance for depth and richness
The Bordeaux-Rhône style 2021 Serial Red Blend is a dynamite blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Sirah, Syrah, Tempranillo, and Grenache that melds power with elegance for depth and richness. Aged in a blend of French and American oak, this wine boasts explosive flavors of raspberry, strawberry crumble, and vanilla with notes of cedar and fresh leather on a sumptuous finish.
“Serial Wines are made in partnership
with several, small Paso Robles growers across Districts and sub-AVAs that I’ve known, or met through friends of friends
from when I first started my career here,”
Jeff Kandarian
Executive Winemaker
John Anthony Wine & Spirits
“The Serial Tasting Lounge opened in 2022 with multiple District and Vineyard-Designates and it’s become a destination to enjoy the diversity of this winegrowing region right in the heart of downtown Paso Robles. For the new Serial White Blend and Serial Red Blend, we sourced multiple varietals from several growers across the region, as well as our own estate. These new wines will be available nationally, so for those who have yet to visit here, they are an exceptional way to experience Paso’s stunning terroir.”
Paso Robles’ Serial Wines as ‘Official Wine’ at The San Diego International Film Festival
Debuted at the 2024 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen last week, the two new blends have unique, original-art labels in contrast to the sleek, matte-black label on Serial Cabernet Sauvignon. The complex and evocative artwork on the new blends reflects the nuances and detail of these wines.
The Serial White Blend label depicts a young woman partially shrouded in fog with breaking clouds, alluding to Paso’s cooler microclimates where the grapes were sourced.
Gracing the Serial Red Blend, a Royal Stag stands stalwart in the pouring rain, symbolizing the regality of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape that anchors this blend and the fertility of the vineyards from which grapes were sourced.
Official Wine Sponsor of The San Diego International Film Festival
Alongside the expansion of the Serial Wines collection, the brand also announces a new partnership with The San Diego International Film Festival as Official Wine Sponsor. Celebrating over 20 years as a premier event on the international film festival circuit, the festival will take place October 16th to 20th, 2024, with pre-festival Film Insider Series events June through August, hosting over 10,000 discerning film lovers in Balboa Park and La Jolla.
“The Serial brand has a lot of layers—from Executive Winemaker Jeff Kandarian’s deep knowledge from his early career in the Paso Robles AVA, to the artistry of the wines showcasing tiny vineyards, and the complexity and versatility of the wines themselves,” said Sarah Montague, Chief Marketing Officer, John Anthony Wine & Spirits.
“So as we looked for a platform that shared Serial’s values of curiosity, discovery, community, and sensory storytelling, film festivals emerged as a perfect fit. We are honored to pour our wines for San Diego International Film Festival goers, celebrate the power of film with every pour, and amplify the enjoyment of every story told with these exceptional wines. ”
To celebrate this exciting partnership, Serial Wines and San Diego International Film Festival are hosting a thrilling opportunity for wine and film aficionados to enter for a chance to win a trip to the October festival. One lucky winner could win a round-trip airfare for two to San Diego, hotel accommodations, and two four-day passes to the San Diego International Film Festival.
Wine lovers can find more details, including rules and how to enter, at https://www.serialwines.com/sdfilmfest.
For more information about Serial’s series of outstanding Paso Robles wines and how to stock them please visit SerialWines.com/Trade.
Experience the Serial Tasting Lounge in downtown Paso Robles or meet us at The San Diego International Film Festival, and learn about other upcoming events at SerialWines.com.
Follow @SerialWines on Facebook and Instagram for Paso Robles wine news from Serial and more chances to win.
About Serial Wines
Serial Wines is a series of wines sourced from across the diverse Paso Robles AVA and its 11 Districts, conceived in 2015 by Vintner, John Anthony Truchard and produced by Executive Winemaker, Jeff Kandarian—who started his career in Paso Robles and has a deep understanding of its terroir.
Working with like-minded, meticulous winegrowers, the Serial Wines collection includes: varietal-specific, nuanced blends, AVA-designate, and single-vineyard releases which express the best of the region.
Part of the John Anthony Wine & Spirits portfolio, Serial Cabernet Sauvignon and NEW Serial White Blend and Serial Red Blend are available at fine wine retailers. An extended selection of limited releases can be purchased online through the winery at SerialWines.com and at the stunning Serial Wines Tasting Lounge within the Historic Odd Fellows Building, downtown Paso Robles—named USA Today‘s 10Best new wineries in 2022.
About The San Diego International Film Festival
The San Diego International Film Festival is the region’s premier film event and one of the leading stops on the independent festival circuit. The Festival offers a totally unique film experience; including world premieres, never before seen studio releases and the best in independent filmmaking.
About John Anthony Wine & Spirits
John Anthony Wine & Spirits, established by Founder and CEO John Anthony Truchard includes John Anthony Vineyards, Serial Wines, Weather Wines, and JaM Cellars. John Anthony Vineyards produces exclusive wines created from small vineyard sites in Oak Knoll District, Carneros, Calistoga and Coombsville regions, all available in the winery’s downtown Napa Tasting Lounge.
Serial Wines is a curated collection of wines from Paso Robles and beyond—lush, and vibrant, sourced from exceptional vineyards in this exciting wine region. Weather Wines is a collection of Burgundian varietal wines grown in their most-perfect microclimates and highlighting the dynamic relationship between vines, terroir, and the elements.
JaM Cellars was founded in 2009 in response to the downturn in the economy and experienced triple-digit growth in its early years by offering wines made in the tradition of great California winemaking at accessible sub $20 price points.
Today, Butter Chardonnay from JaM Cellars is the #2 selling Chardonnay above $13 in the U.S. (source: Nielsen scan data 2024).
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Why Everyone in L.A. Is Talking About This Bottle from On The Rocks Cocktails —And Dylan Efron’s Got One in Hand
Why Everyone in L.A. Is Talking About This Bottled Cocktail—And Dylan Efron’s Got One in Hand
From Beverly Hills rooftops to the American Music Awards in Vegas, On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails is becoming the drink of the moment for Los Angeles tastemakers.
If you’ve been to a dinner party in Silver Lake, a pool day in Venice, or a rooftop gathering in West Hollywood lately, chances are you’ve already seen them—sleek bottles, bold labels, and cocktails so good, they taste like they came from a $20-per-drink mixologist.
We’re talking about On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails, the bartender-crafted ready-to-drink cocktails that have officially made the leap from local favorite to full-blown red carpet royalty.
How big is this brand getting? It just returned for a second year as the official cocktail of the American Music Awards, serving drinks to celebrities, influencers, and VIPs live from the brand-new Fontainebleau Las Vegas. But make no mistake—this is still an L.A. story at heart.
From Westside to Worldwide
On The Rocks™ might be making waves in Vegas, but it was born for places like Los Angeles: where people love a great cocktail but hate waiting in line to get one.
At this year’s AMAs, while the music world’s biggest stars lit up the stage, On The Rocks™ was making headlines of its own. Guests were treated to their full line-up inside the lavish BleauLive Theater lobby, transforming the pre-show cocktail game into something more stylish, accessible, and yes—very L.A.
And backstage? Dylan Efron casually popped open a Margarita, toasted with an Old Fashioned, and showed America how to “Make it a Cocktail”—a moment that aired during the live broadcast and gave fans a peek into the effortless cool the brand is pushing.
You can check out his behind-the-scenes content on Instagram at @otrcocktails, and honestly, it looks more like an Echo Park house party than a backstage award show.
A Campaign Made for L.A. Life
Carol Robert, managing director of U.S. ready-to-drink at Suntory Global Spirits, summed it up perfectly:
“The American Music Awards are all about celebrating the moments that bring people together—and that’s exactly what On The Rocks™ is created to do.”
That idea is at the heart of their new “Make it a Cocktail” campaign, which made its primetime debut during the AMAs. The campaign flips the script on traditional drinking occasions—showing people ditching wine or beer in favor of a proper cocktail at times you’d never expect it. Think: an Espresso Martini at a backyard movie night, or a Cucumber & Lemongrass Mule at a Dodger game tailgate.
It’s all about elevating everyday moments, something Angelenos know a thing or two about.
The L.A. Factor: Convenience Meets Craft
Founded in 2015 by a group of industry vets who knew the pain of finding a decent cocktail outside of a high-end bar, On The Rocks™ delivers all the flavor and balance of a hand-mixed drink—minus the bartender, the mess, or the Uber ride home.
Their lineup reads like the menu at a trendy cocktail bar on La Brea:
The Aviation, Old Fashioned, Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita, Cosmopolitan, Mai Tai, and more. Limited editions like the Spiced Pear Whiskey Sour and Blue Hawaiian have become collector items for cocktail connoisseurs across town.
And now, with the launch of their sparkling canned line—Sparkling Lime Margarita, Mango & Mint Mojito, and Cucumber & Lemongrass Mule—On The Rocks™ is staking its claim on poolside coolers from Malibu to Marina del Rey.
Where to Sip in L.A.
Whether you’re hosting a movie night in Culver City, planning a beach day in Santa Monica, or pre-gaming for a night out in West Hollywood, On The Rocks™ is the go-to. You can find the full lineup at major retailers around Los Angeles, or just visit ontherockscocktails.com to stock up.
Follow @otrcocktails on Instagram for the latest drops, cocktail inspo, and behind-the-scenes celebrity moments.
Bottom line:
L.A. is a city that doesn’t wait—and now your drink doesn’t have to either. On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails is delivering mixology-level cocktails without the fuss, and everyone from Dylan Efron to your neighbor in Brentwood is pouring one.
Big Papi’s Ultra-Premium Ozama Rum Just Landed in L.A.—Here’s Why You’ll Want a Bottle
Big Papi’s Next Power Play: David Ortiz Uncorks a Dominican Rum With Soul, Swagger, and Serious Flavor
In a town that thrives on reinvention, where tequila tastings compete with mezcal masterclasses and everyone knows their Negroni from their Paper Plane, the arrival of Ozama Rum might just disrupt L.A.’s sipping scene in the most unexpected—and welcome—way. But this isn’t just another luxury bottle with a celebrity signature. It’s Dominican-born, baseball-bred, and brimming with heart.
Launched by none other than Hall-of-Famer David “Big Papi” Ortiz, Ozama Rum is a lush, premium spirit that pays homage to the rhythms, rituals, and resilience of the Dominican Republic. And while Ortiz may be best known for smashing home runs for the Boston Red Sox, his latest swing connects straight to his roots—and it’s a clean hit.
“To me, Ozama isn’t just about rum, it’s about identity, pride, and progress,” Ortiz says.
“I wanted to build something that celebrates the energy and soul of my people and shows the world what we’re made of. It’s always been important for me to do things the right way, which is why this labor of love has been one of the most rewarding projects of my career. I can’t wait for people to try it! They say that perfection doesn’t exist, but you can get close to it.”
Rum, Reimagined
Named after the Ozama River—the same one Ortiz grew up fishing, swimming, and crabbing along as a boy—Ozama Rum isn’t just Dominican in spirit. It’s 100% Dominican in production. From the locally grown sugarcane to the fermentation, distillation, and
Taraji P. Henson Brings Hollywood Flair to the High Seas with Seven Daughters Moscato and Princess Cruises
Taraji P. Henson Brings Hollywood Flair to the High Seas with Seven Daughters Moscato and Princess Cruises
The Academy Award-nominated actress, entrepreneur, and proud Angeleno has teamed up with Princess Cruises to bring her fan-favorite Seven Daughters Moscato to travelers worldwide. The wine, celebrated for its vibrant, lightly sweet notes of tropical fruit and honeysuckle, is the latest addition to the cruise line’s Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection.
And for L.A. locals who already know Taraji as more than just Cookie Lyon or Melinda Gayle, this new venture is pure Taraji: bold, inviting, and full of heart.
“Seven Daughters is more than just a bottle of wine; it’s a celebration in a glass,” said Henson. “Our Moscato is inviting, refreshing, and perfect for moments of connection which is what makes this partnership with Princess Cruises so amazing. Now we can experience this feeling with people from around the world, whether they’re toasting under the stars or relaxing on the open sea.”
Headquartered right in Santa Clarita, Princess Cruises has long been a part of Southern California’s luxury travel DNA. With its proximity to the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro—just a freeway ride away from Taraji’s hometown hustle—this partnership feels especially fitting. L.A. residents looking for a chic weekend escape can now sip on Seven Daughters while cruising down the Pacific Coast or setting out on a Mexican Riviera getaway, glass in hand and ocean breeze in hair.
“Princess Cruises is committed to curating distinctive, high-quality experiences for our guests, and Seven Daughters aligns seamlessly with that vision,” said Sami Kohen, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Princess Cruises. “Taraji’s Moscato reflects a bold yet approachable style that we know our guests will love.”
Seven Daughters isn’t just another celebrity wine—it’s a labor of love and creativity. As Strategic Advisor and Creative Collaborator, Henson has poured her personality into every bottle. For L.A. tastemakers and wine lovers, this means more than a quality drink; it’s a chance to connect with a star who has always stayed rooted in the community.
With her inclusion in the Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection, Henson joins a glamorous circle of fellow celebrity spirits makers including Jason Momoa and Blaine Halvorson (Meili Vodka), Camila and Matthew McConaughey (Pantalones Organic Tequila), Blake Lively (Betty Booze and Betty Buzz), Liev Schreiber (Sláinte Irish Whiskey), Jason Aldean (Melarosa Wines), Romero Britto (Love Prosecco), and Kylie Minogue (No Alcohol Sparkling Rosé).
For Angelenos used to spotting stars in Studio City or sipping cocktails in West Hollywood, the idea of toasting with a Taraji-crafted wine while watching the sunset over the Pacific feels just right. Whether you’re heading to Catalina for the weekend or sailing out to Alaska, Seven Daughters is now the perfect local-meets-luxury beverage choice.
The Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection, launched by Princess Cruises to spotlight exclusive, star-powered wines and spirits, is about more than just sipping—it’s about celebrating. And with Taraji P. Henson at the helm of her Moscato, there’s never been a better time to raise a glass to life, love, and L.A. style.
More details and sailing options available at www.princess.com.
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Los Angeles’ A.O.C. Welcomes Celebrated Guest Sommelier Bobby Stuckey MS Feb 28
Los Angeles’ A.O.C. Welcomes Celebrated Guest Sommelier Bobby Stuckey MS Feb 28
Caroline Styne and Suzanne Goin welcome the co-owner of Frasca Food & Wine and Scarpetta Wines to A.O.C. on 3rd Street for an evening showcasing his boutique wines.
Caroline Styne and Chef Suzanne Goin will host a special evening at A.O.C. on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, featuring James Beard Foundation award-winner Bobby Stuckey of Boulder’s Frasca Food & Wine and Scarpetta Wines.
Bobby will serve as Guest Sommelier, showcasing the imported wines of Murva and his own Scarpetta Wines.
Caroline Styne has curated wine flights to be enjoyed during dinner, and guests can also choose from featured bottles from Murva or the Scarpetta wine library.
Additionally, A.O.C. will offer a selection of Italian cheeses for wine pairings. The menu will be à la carte, and reservations for the event are encouraged.
“I am beyond excited to have my idol,
Bobby Stuckey, working the floor with us at A.O.C.”
Caroline Styne
“His charisma and dedication to outstanding hospitality are inspirational.”
This evening presents a rare opportunity to meet Bobby Stuckey, a highly talented and charismatic figure in the hospitality industry.
WHEN:
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
5:30 – 10:00 p.m.
WHERE: A.O.C., 8700 W. 3rd Street Los Angeles, California 90049
Phone: 310.859.9859
Bobby Stuckey began his distinguished career in restaurants in his home state of Arizona, working his way from dishwasher to management, establishing his position as one of the leaders in the hospitality industry.
He joined the staff of The Little Nell restaurant in Aspen as a sommelier in 1995. During his five-year tenure, The Little Nell received numerous awards for wine and service, including Gourmet’s “Best Wine Service” Award; Mobile Travel Guide’s Five Star Hotel and Restaurant Rating; Wine Spectator’s Grand Award; and a nomination from the James Beard Foundation for Outstanding Wine Service.
In 2000, Stuckey moved west to work with world-renowned chef Thomas Keller at The French Laundry in Yountville, California.
Within his first year, Stuckey led the acclaimed restaurant’s team to earn the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Wine Service award and San Francisco Magazine recognized him as “Wine Director of the Year.”
The French Laundry received the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant Service in 2003. It was during his tenure at The French Laundry where Bobby met his future business partner, chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson.
With the vision of opening a neighborhood restaurant reminiscent of the Italian frascas they had visited in Italy’s Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, Stuckey and Mackinnon Patterson opened their first restaurant, Frasca Food and Wine, in August 2004, in Boulder, Colorado. Having researched and traveled throughout Italy many times, both were deeply inspired by this region in particular — the international influences of its cuisine, the profusion of local ingredients in its rustic yet elegant dishes, its passionate relationship between food and wine, and the gracious hospitality of the locals. Receiving his Master Sommelier Diploma in 2004, Stuckey has been bestowed with some of the restaurant and wine industrys’ highest honors such as James Beard Foundation nominations for Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional, Outstanding Wine Service, and won the prestigious award for Outstanding Wine Service in 2013.
In 2007, Stuckey and Mackinnon-Patterson launched Scarpetta Wines to produce Friulian white wines. They now produce over eight varietals. In January 2011, Stuckey and Mackinnon-Patterson opened Pizzeria Locale Boulder, a full-service, contemporary pizzeria inspired by the traditional pizzerias of Naples, Italy located adjacent to sister restaurant Frasca with a similar attention to hospitality in a contemporary, laid back, interactive atmosphere. The partners also own and operate fast-fine versions of Pizzeria Locale Denver, with four locations in the Denver Metro area.
In the fall of 2017, Stuckey and Mackinnon-Patterson, along with partners Peter Hoglund, and Continuum Partners’ Mark Falcone, opened Tavernetta in Denver’s Union Station neighborhood. Located directly off the Union Station train platform, Tavernetta is inspired by Italy’s vast culinary traditions, with a menu that celebrates authentic regional classics from across the entire country in an approachable and welcoming environment. In December 2019, they opened Sunday Vinyl, a European-inspired wine bar & restaurant dedicated to providing the highest quality analog listening experience, adjacent to Tavernetta in downtown Denver.
Frasca Food and Wine celebrated 15 years in 2019 and the same year, under Bobby’s direction, the restaurant won the 2019 James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Service (changed to Outstanding Hospitality for the 2020 Awards thanks to Bobby’s recommendation).
ABOUT SCARPETTA WINES:
Scarpetta — The drivers of Scarpetta Wine are Bobby Stuckey M.S. and Lachlan Patterson former chef de partie at The French Laundry. They conspired to open a restaurant in Boulder, Colorado and thanks to a fateful trip to the Alpine region of Italy they had their inspiration… the cuisine and culture of Friuli. Always digging deeper for Friulian inspiration, Bobby and Lachlan travel to the region several times a year, even taking their entire staff along for a week of eating, wine tasting and general Friuli-worship every summer. It was only natural that when Bobby and Lachlan dreamt about starting their own wine label they looked first to the beautiful whites of Friuli, and Scarpetta was born. Murva – Moraro and Mariano del Friuli, Isonzo – The wines produced by Alberto Pelos at Murva are pure and vibrant. Alberto, who spent many years as winemaker at Vie di Romans, describes the vineyard soils that comprise Murva’s vineyards as dolomitic, with small pebbles rich in iron and aluminum, and a high sand and clay content (feretto). He farms 4 hectares of vineyards that he owns, and 1 hectare that he farms in the center of town which is part of a community outreach program to support troubled youth. The Murva wines have distinct salinity and energy that are not to be missed by any lover of Northern Italian whites.
ABOUT THE LUCQUES GROUP:
With the opening of Lucques, their flagship restaurant, in 1998, James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef/Author Suzanne Goinand award-winning Restaurateur Caroline Styne planted the seeds for The Lucques Group, a Los Angeles hospitality company that comprises two fine dining restaurants – A.O.C. in both Los Angeles and Brentwood. Along with these culinary enterprises, the company also owns the Larder Baking Company and oversees Hollywood Bowl Food + Wine, which curates all the food and beverage outlets at L.A.’s iconic music venue. The duo also operates two new restaurants – Caldo Verde and Cara Cara, and the new Dahlia cocktail bar at the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel. The Lucques Group is dedicated to seasonally influenced cooking and focuses on sourcing local, organic produce from which Goin creates soulful dishes that are bold in flavor, vibrant, layered and complex.
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Santa Monica’s Mon Ami “First Class to Spain” Sept 19 Experiential Dining Brings Barcelona to Your Table
Santa Monica ‘s Mon Ami “First Class to Spain” Sept 19 Experiential Dining Brings Catalonia to Your Table
If you’re not already familiar with Mon Ami, you’re missing out on one of Santa Monica’s tastiest hidden gems.
Tucked behind the crowds on Ocean Avenue, this hidden courtyard restaurant feels like the best-kept secret for cocktails and bites near the beach.
Nas Negahban’s Mon Ami “First Class Experience’ takes Your Tastebuds to Barcelona
Under the guidance of Nas Negahban from Pacific Coast Hospitality Group, a seasoned traveler with a passion for authentic culinary experiences, Mon Ami strives to mirror the richness of Mediterranean cultures in every aspect.
The Mon Ami event series will launch September 19.
Reservations to the Barcelona First Class Series Event: https://resy.com/cities/santa-monica-ca/venues/mon-ami?date=2024-09-19&seats=2&query=Mon%20ami&activeView=list
Pricing is: $95 plus tax and gratuity for the 4-course food menu
Or $125++ for the food menu and 2 included drinks.
Mon Ami Chef explaining tonight’s dishes
Speaking on his inspiration and Mon Ami’s concept, Nas explains:
“I’ve always had a passion for building new concepts and brands across various industries.
We currently have a few restaurants in Spain and other countries
but Santa Monica is home. ”
Nas Negahban
Mon Ami is the true Mediterranean experience.
With an emphasis on a variety of culinary dishes and spices and inspired spirits with an enhanced flair attached to it from several countries located on or by the Mediterranean Sea such as Spain, Greece, Italy, France, Morocco, & many more with a lot of their food curated and selected from the local Santa Monica Farmers Market.
First Class Series Event on September 19 – Extraordinary Journey to Barcelona
The First Class Event Series includes 2 items from Mon Ami’s drink menu (specialty cocktails or wine)… and dishes from their food menu:
- appetizer
- first course
- second course
- choice of 3rd course
- and choice of dessert
If that sounds like a lot, it is. And not in a “I’m stuffed and need to roll home” kind of way.
Incredible flavor.
Diversity.
Filling.
But you leave feeling pleasantly fulfilled. Not heavy.
For me, that’s incredibly important.
Mon Ami’s First Class Series is a great idea for date night, for a casual business dinner, for a birthday or celebration.
Most importantly, it creates memories. It’s been a few days since my dinner, and I’m still remembering it and smiling.
Mon Ami’s Blackberry Mojito
Mon Ami’s Blackberry Mojito
Mon Ami’s Catelonia Margarita
Mon Ami’s Catelonia Margarita.
The dinner started with a light appetizer, perfect to ignite your appetite.
Mon Ami; Amuse Bouche (Iberian Jamon with Burrata, Calabria Chile on a crustini)
Amuse Bouche (Iberian Jamon with Burrata, Calabria Chile on a crustini)
Light with a good crunch and subtle flavor.
Equally important, the perfect conversation starter. If your dining table has a quiet moment, the arrival of this plate sparks smiles, giggles and reactions.
Mon Ami; Tapas Trio: Truffle mushroom, Chicken Mousse with a Pickled Onion, Spicy Tomatoes and Pepper
1st Course
Tapas Trio: Truffle mushroom, Chicken Mousse with a Pickled Onion, Spicy Tomatoes and Pepper
This is the first feel of diversity. Flavor, mouthfeel; each of the three delivered a different experience. From subtle, to bold, to a kick of spice.
Is your dinner Instagrammable? It is if you’re at Mon Ami.
All evening long diners were taking pics of their meals. Why? Sure, it’s delicious. But the plating. Beautifully well-designed and playful.
Mon Ami takes their flavor seriously, but has fun creating each dish into art.
Mon Ami; Grilled Octopus with Patatas Bravas
2nd Course
Grilled Octopus with Patatas Bravas
The grilled octopus is tender and juicy, paired well with crispy fried potatoes and drizzled with red sauce. It made you hungry for what’s next…
Mon Ami; Marinated Skirt Steak with a side of Spanish Rice and Roasted Zucchini
3rd Course
Marinated Skirt Steak with a side of Spanish Rice and Roasted Zucchini
Don’t forget, the 3rd course has options: steak vs pasta.
Choosing skirt steak because it’s commonly a tougher cut and I was curious to see how Mon Ami’s skilled chef would create a heavenly plate. Here, the marinade brought out the tender juicy flavor that we hoped for. Well-prepared.
Our table shared smiles, giggles and mmmm’s with each bite.
Mon Ami; Crema Catalona with Shaved Chocolate and Berries
Dessert
Crema Catalona with Shaved Chocolate and Berries
Again, dessert offered choices. Dessert was between Crema Catalona and Sorbet. I chose the Crema because I wanted to see how the Chef and his kitchen would prepare the dish. His choices were impressive so far and I chose to trust his instincts.
I’m glad I trusted him.
It was perfect for me. To be clear, I don’t want a mountain of sugar. I want 5 bites of flavor and pleasure.
If tonight had been a date, sharing 2-3 bites each would have been the perfect evening to a perfect dinner.
Born and raised in Santa Monica, Nas is committed to elevating his hometown’s hospitality scene to reflect the sophistication of beachside cities he has encountered abroad. This is present in every aspect of MON AMI’s ambiance, from its lush indoor-outdoor seating surrounded by greenery to its late-night live entertainment and picture-perfect cocktails. MON AMI is meticulously curated to enchant and immerse guests.
The event series will launch September 19 at the Mon Ami Santa location.
Reservation to the Barcelona First Class Series Event: https://resy.com/cities/santa-monica-ca/venues/mon-ami?date=2024-09-19&seats=2&query=Mon%20ami&activeView=list
You can also email events@monamism.com if you have any questions or want to book over the phone.)
Pricing is: $95 plus tax and gratuity for the 4-course food menu or $125++ for the food menu and 2 included drinks.
Mon Ami will offer a complimentary taste of the sangria upon arrival.
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Actress & Supermodel Eugenia Kuzmina Spotted at Westside’s Best Kept Secret – Tikkun Spa in Santa Monica
Actress & Supermodel Eugenia Kuzmina Spotted at Westside’s Best Kept Secret – Tikkun Spa in Santa Monica — and Shares Her Favorite Facial As She Gets Glam For Her Latest Movie Premiere.
Stunning supermodel & actress Eugenia Kuzmina was seen this week at Tikkun Spa in Santa Monica.
She stopped in to sample one of their most popular hydra-facial complete with a radio frequency body contour.
Esthetician Jenny Duh performed the speciality facial – She is medically trained and has a loyal and well deserved following in the beauty industry. // Photo Christine Peake
The Guy Ritchie favorite, (she has appeared in several of his films,) needed to hydrate her face before taking the red eye flight to New York City, where she walked the red carpet of her new movie starring fellow actor and comedian Matt Rife.
The movie is called “A Celebration Of Young Hollywood.”
To get fabulous Eugenia opted for a full hydrating facial with a korean contour with lymph drain massage. Her skin looked amazing as she headed off to the airport!
“I love it. Now I will be hydrated when I land!”
Said the Russian beauty
Stunning supermodel & actress Eugenia Kuzmina enjoying her facial by esthetician Jenny Duh // Photo: Christine Peake
Eugenia Kuzmina applies her favorite Aspire Ageless Beauty products, she is also their spokesperson.
Eugenia looked radiant after the facial as seen in NYC Feb 1st
Eugenia’ Kuzmina’s movie premiered in NYC this week
TIKKUN HOLISTIC SPA is a wellness sanctuary designed to heal and rejuvenate your mind and body. Our special treatments have been carefully selected to restore your health and well-being, helping you to relax and replenish your energy. Let our experienced therapists take care of you and revitalize your essential being.
SPA JOURNEY TREATMENTS & BODY WRAPS
Prior to treatment, 20 minutes in the salt & clay far-infrared rooms are recommended to promote detoxification.
This celebrity favorite is often referred to as the red carpet facial. Our unique procedure integrates Diamond Tip Microderm for cleansing and exfoliation, followed by extraction and hydration, with Vortex-Fusion of antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to rejuvenate your skin. Targets sun damage, fine lines, dehydrated and oily skin.
A 10-step customized facial using the best secrets of Korean beauty and skin care products to reveal healthy, radiant, glowing skin. Special massage techniques such as facial fascia manipulation, acupressure, and lymphatic drainage facial massage are used to contour and tighten the skin.
