Seline

Hidden behind a heavy iron gate in a Santa Monica mixed-use complex, Seline immediately sets a mood. Walk through an atmospheric courtyard with ambient music and candlelight, and you might wonder what you’ve gotten yourself into. But step inside and any trepidation melts away. This is fine dining that takes its craft seriously without ever forgetting that you came here to enjoy dinner.

The roughly 18-course tasting menu arrives in waves from the moment you sit down. Each dish comes with its own story, weaving seasonal ingredients with sensory nostalgia in ways that feel genuinely inventive rather than gimmicky. One course might evoke the caramelized edges of a holiday pot roast simmering all day, while another pairs unexpected ingredients like roasted leek and banana to surprisingly delicious effect. The kitchen draws from a backyard-fresh philosophy, combining it with techniques honed at celebrated spots like Chicago’s Alinea.

What sets Seline apart from other high-end tasting menus is how natural everything feels. Being invited into the kitchen to watch a mustard leaf dipped in passion fruit get flash-frozen before your eyes becomes a seamless part of the evening rather than theatrical interruption. The service radiates warmth, the midnight-black dining room strikes the right balance between stylish and comfortable, and the storytelling that accompanies each plate enhances rather than overshadows the food.

At $295 per person before wine, this is undeniably a splurge, but Seline delivers value in ways that matter. The non-alcoholic pairing is particularly impressive if you want to skip the wine—creative drinks like tomato cumin soda and banana-laced lattes match the inventiveness of the food. For special occasions, anniversary dinners, or when you simply want to experience cooking that pushes boundaries while remaining genuinely delicious, this Santa Monica gem delivers an unforgettable evening.