Nestled within the bustling seaside community of Santa Monica, Mon Ami is a culinary experience that transports diners far beyond the Pacific shores. Led by Nas Negahban of the Pacific Coast Group (PCH Group), this vibrant eatery presents an enticing mosaic of Mediterranean cuisine, seamlessly blending flavors from Spain, Greece, Italy, France, Morocco, and beyond. Here, every dish tells a story, a rich narrative woven from local ingredients, including fresh produce curated directly from the renowned Santa Monica Farmers Market.

Indoor and outdoor seating spills into a lush oasis of greenery, creating an elegant yet relaxed environment that feels as though you’ve wandered into a European coastal retreat. This ambiance is heightened by live music that serenades guests late into the night, inviting them to linger over exquisite cocktails that capture the region’s spirited essence. Our recent visit to Mon Ami was a “first class” excursion, where the flavors and energy of Barcelona took center stage. Flamenco dancers and musicians further transported diners to the sun-soaked streets of the Spanish city, creating an unforgettable, all-encompassing experience. We were greeted with an impressive lineup of cocktails: the spicy Catalonia Margarita, a refreshing Blackberry Mojito, and the unique Kalimoto, a daring blend of Coke and red wine. Our server, Justin was impeccably attentive, offering spot-on recommendations that ensured our journey flowed seamlessly.

The evening began with an amuse-bouche of Iberian jamón and burrata, served with a Calabrian chile crostini—a perfect bite that combined creaminess with a touch of heat. Following this was the first course, a trio of tapas: truffle mushroom, chicken mousse with pickled onion jam, and spicy tomato with peppers. The meal continued with grilled octopus accompanied by patatas bravas—crisp on the outside, tender within—and culminated in a succulent marinated steak, served with a side of perfectly seasoned Spanish rice. Every bite of the steak was a reminder of the bold yet refined flavors that Mon Ami excels at delivering, thanks to Chef Daniel Ulrich. For dessert, we indulged in a decadent Crème Catalana, a luxurious treat topped with chocolate and fresh berries that balanced sweetness with the slight bitterness of burnt sugar.

Nas Negahban, a seasoned traveler and hospitality innovator, has made it his mission to infuse Mon Ami with the authenticity and flair of his Mediterranean inspirations. “Santa Monica is home,” he shares, “but I’ve been inspired by the world’s great coastal cities. Hospitality is at its finest by the water, and my goal is to bring that same level of sophistication to Santa Monica.” His passion for creating a refined yet welcoming space is evident, not only in the thoughtful design of the venue but also in the menu’s diversity and attention to detail.

— G. Dhalla

Mon Ami 1541 Ocean Ave Suite 150, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Tel: (424) 645-5550 Reservations at Resy.com