Los Angeles is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, boasting a wide spectrum of dining options from casual eateries to high-end restaurants. Among these, one establishment stands out as the most expensive place to dine in the city and arguably the state: Somni, located in West Hollywood.
Somni: The Dream of Culinary Excellence
Somni, which means “dream” in Catalan, is the brainchild of Chef Aitor Zabala, who trained at the legendary El Bulli in Spain. This restaurant offers a luxurious tasting menu priced at $500 per guest, making it the priciest dining experience in Los Angeles. The menu features nearly 30 intricate bites each night, showcasing modern and playful interpretations of familiar dishes that elevate the dining experience to an art form15.
The restaurant reopened recently as Somni 2.0 in a brand-new venue after the original Somni closed during the pandemic. The new location in West Hollywood offers a serene, secret garden atmosphere with a tranquil, tree-lined patio that enhances the exclusivity and intimacy of the experience5.
What Makes Somni the Most Expensive?
Several factors contribute to Somni’s status as the most expensive restaurant in Los Angeles:
Culinary Innovation: Chef Zabala’s background at El Bulli, a pioneer in molecular gastronomy, is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship and creativity of each dish.
Length and Complexity of the Menu: Guests are treated to nearly 30 courses, each carefully designed to offer a unique taste and visual delight.
Exclusive Ambiance: The restaurant’s secluded setting and elegant design create a luxurious dining environment.
High-Quality Ingredients: The menu includes rare and premium ingredients, such as caviar-topped meringues and truffle sandwiches, which justify the elevated price point15.
Los Angeles vs. California’s Most Expensive Dining
While Somni holds the title for the priciest tasting menu in Los Angeles, the most expensive restaurant in the entire state of California is Atelier Crenn in San Francisco.
Atelier Crenn offers a multi-course tasting menu with prices reaching nearly $400 per dish, led by Chef Dominique Crenn, whose poetic and nature-inspired cuisine has earned three Michelin stars. This comparison highlights the intense competition and high standards of fine dining across California.
Conclusion
Somni in West Hollywood represents the pinnacle of luxury dining in Los Angeles with its $500 tasting menu, innovative culinary artistry, and exclusive ambiance. While California’s highest dining price tag belongs to San Francisco’s Atelier Crenn, Somni’s unique approach and immersive experience make it the most expensive and sought-after restaurant in Los Angeles, attracting food connoisseurs willing to invest in an unforgettable gastronomic journey.