French Restaurant Review: Muse, Los Angeles 

Muse Restaurant in Los Angeles presents fine dining that celebrates passion and craft.

I am always on the quest for a superb restaurant in Los Angeles with a French flair. I need search no further. The newly opened Muse is a venue that impresses and exceeds expectations. 

From the moment we stepped inside the intimate space, we were greeted by a staff that exuded genuine hospitality. Chef-owner, Fardad Khayami, is a most hospitable host. To say that he is charismatic would be an understatement. Much like being invited to an intimate dinner party, dining at MUSE is a very convivial, décontracté experience.   

The concept for MUSE started when Chef Khayami was a student at the University of Southern California (USC). Featuring rotating cuisines and fine art, it blossomed from a popular campus pop-up produced by a group of USC pals into a full-fledged culinary powerhouse. In mid-August, he opened MUSE with bar director and former roommate, David Gelland. Along with Khayami’s desire to incorporate art into every part of the culinary experience, the menu is inspired by memories of the 4-course feasts of his childhood while visiting his grandparents in the south of France.

The restaurant’s meticulously curated décor features warm sconced lighting, lush velvet seats, and eye-catching fluted wood paneling. Subtle curves enhance the modern cool vibe. The main dining room, seating 35, is polished and intimate while not feeling stuffy. An impressive display of museum quality artwork, evoking a classic French allure, will rotate once or twice a year.  Stunning works by renowned Catalan-Spanish artist Joan Miró are now on display, elevating the elegant ambience. “Art deeply resonates with the entire concept of the restaurant”, states Khayami. 

The upscale atmosphere is ideal for a drink at the Bar (seating four), as well as a warm backdrop to an exceptional culinary adventure. The décor complements the Chef’s innovative and creative menu that highlights each ingredient. On each plate, as well as throughout the restaurant itself, layered elements are artfully combined. The cocktail selection is equally impressive, featuring handcrafted drinks with captivating stories. 

Once seated in the contemporary, sophisticated salle, you will find an a la carte menu divided into four sections, and the magic begins. Our meal started with a warm Brioche Puff Pastry which along with the beurre Bordier from Normandy was worth every buttery bite. Along with the brioche, the Veal Bon Bons exploding with flavor are a must. 

Every dish was paced perfectly, skillfully crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients, and presented with flair. Other exceptional offerings include the Filet Mignon with sauce Bordelaise, Rack of lamb à la Provençal, and Saffron risotto, with lobster and gremolata. A side of the Pomme puree completely transported me.  

Make sure not to miss the flawless desserts masterfully and elegantly created by pastry chef Nikdad Khayami, owner Farhad Khayam’s younger brother. One taste of his reimagined classic desserts such as Vanilla St. Honoré or Tiramisu will change your life. No wonder, as Nikdad received his formal training under notable pastry chefs in Paris, including Maxime Frédéric.   

I left MUSE thinking I had experienced the best of modern French cuisine, while only a block from the beach in Santa Monica. I left immediately thinking about our return and looked forward to another unforgettable experience.  

MUSE Restaurant, 108 West Channel Road, Santa Monica, CA 

1 424- 238-5107  

www.musesantamonica.com