Violet Casual Elegance

3221 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica (310) 453-9113 www.violetrestaurant.com

 

If the looks of owner-Chef Jared Simmons, who apparently morphed from a fat kid into a tattooed stud is any indication, this kind-on-your wallet neighborhood eatery is the sexy new ‘it’ place.  Conviviality is in the air at this comfortable, minimalist 60-seater spot that doesn’t compromise style for coziness.  Here you will find friends gossiping, solo diners perched at the bar without giving in to self-pity and food so good, it’s a bargain you won’t find any place else.  “I love to eat,” confesses Simons.  “When I earn their trust they are excited to try the dishes I love to cook.” 

 

Chocolate wood tables compliment violet banquets, cherry framed mirrors, modern art and dancing candles.  It’s as if the urban, unfussy ambiance is nodding to the menu, reinforcing that there is in fact a place where macaroni & cheese can sit comfortably next to roasted duck breast and steamed mussels.  With an emphasis on small plates, diners are able to relish what Simmons wittily describes as “promiscuous dinning.” 

 

“It’s a more social way of dining,” says Simons.  “It reflects the way I like to eat myself – being able to sample different things without committing to one particular dish.”  Variety, after all, is the spice of life and at Violet we are enabled this privilege without denting the Visa.

 

Almost everything on the menu is delightful so go ahead and be adventurous when ordering.  A special salad of marinated peaches, grapes, and goat cheese is heavenly!  Buttery ahi tuna tartare uses scallions, shallots, chili powder and served with horseradish vinegar yet manages to be subtle.  And then there are the must-haves starting with the whole trout in balsamic brown butter balanced perfectly with a slice of French melon.  Not over-spiced, the trout is just a slight step over subtle and into the exciting zone. 

 

Braised beef short ribs prepared in red wine are not only the best thing on this menu, but anywhere around.  Worth the gushing, the melts-in-your-mouth beef is served over a bed of shallot potatoes and asparagus and is sure to be the dish that seduces you to come back for more.  The carnivore will also delight in a New York steak with bbq onions, fries and herb butter.

 

No martinis here but a thoughtful two-page wine list embraces a healthy selection including a number of ‘alternative’ whites and reds that are available by the bottle, glass or tasting flight so you can really indulge!

 

-GD