We went over to Mezze on La Cienega to see what all the fuss is about. Mezze is the result of collaboration between chef Micah Wexler (Craft and L’atelier de Joel Robuchon), GM Michael Kassar ( Spago Beverly Hills) and Voyeur’s Matt Bendik and David Koral.

Interior designer Waldo Fernandez (Soho House) has reimagined the space, formerly occupied by Sona, as a contemporary/rustic Eastern Mediterranean hangout. The room now has a skylight, floor to ceiling glass doors that slide open for al fresco dinning, an open kitchen, a wood-fired oven and a nice bar/lounge area. The room has a lively and warm feel to it.

True to its name, you will be treated to an array of small dishes and flatbreads inspired by the foods of Syria, Lebanon, Morocco and Turkey. There are of course main dishes as well but you might not have room after indulging in those yummy appetizers. We had the Spring Tabouli (with green garlic, fava beans, pancetta and almonds), the Beet Salad (chickpea, sheep’s milk yogurt and halumi), The Diver Scallops (with black and white fennel), The Roasted Quail (with cinnamon consommé and kibbe) and the Foie Gras Terrine (Saffron, Pistachio and watermelon). The plating was beautiful and the flavors were rich and satisfying. Indulge me for a moment…the Foie Gras was “epic,” sinfully rich and somehow refreshing with small cubes of watermelon and pistachio dust. Yes it’s over the top, but it’s a must have! We also had the Flatbread of Flowering Squash, Syrian Cheese and Zatar, which was very nice. Too bad we had no room for any of the larger plates such as the Striped Bass or the Wood-Oven Baby Chicken. We’ll have to check them out next time.

We loved the food and the atmosphere, and would certainly go back. The crowd is a mix and lively at that. The lounge and bar area have a nice feel as well. As for price points; the small plates run from $12-$18 and the mains are around $24. Give it a try.

Mezze is located at 401 La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles. 310.657.4103.

To read more from Project Lena, check out their blog at projectlena.com or visit their Facebook page.

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