I LOVE FIRE. That said we decided to try this out. Our reservation specified seating near the fireplace. We arrived to disorganized reception, who informed us that they could not accomodate us as promised, however we could wait for an available opening. Happily we resumed at the amazing bar, with friendly bar staff who makes a mean martini. I love the countertops of the bar and the tall glass vases with bamboo. We were there on a friday. Beware, friday nights are fondue nights and the place stinks of cheese. It was so objectionable, that we took our drinks outside and sat around our own firepit. There are many outside. There was a large group enjoying the evening down aways, but it didn't interfere with our intimate secluded experience. We waited outside for almost an hour, enjoying the evening and almost forgetting why we came here in the first place. It appears as though perhaps we were forgotten about, and quickly they seated us at the indoor fireplace. The food was fantastic. The service was famous. They felt so bad about our wait, that they brought us a complimentary platter of desserts. I thought they wanted us to pick 1, but they gave us 5!!! 3000 calories OMG. So we sampled all the desserts and most were out of this world!!! We took the rest home and had another chocolate affair the following day. After we ate, we sat on the comfortable radiused array of couches that surround the fireplace. This fireplace is HEAVEN. It doesn't get any better. A buffed concrete cyllinder with glass chips in the center that cast a magical glow. I could have stayed all night! We closed the place down. Not a soul around. Just love it. Parking is a bit expensive.\r
Cost us $17. But treat yourself to a night out, this restaurant is at the Loews Hotel on the Beach, overlooking the Santa Monica Pier and views of the ferris wheel. Can't wait to go back with some friends.....xoxo Fran
Pros: A Fireplace dream
Cons: Smelly Fridays, Valet $pricey
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