Fia

Fia may just be the ultimate Italian-Californian restaurant, a comfortable place with a beautiful back garden that takes full advantage of Santa Monica's year-round beautiful weather and (more importantly) exemplary food. It doesn't hurt that British Chef Brendan Collins honed his skills at Melisse in Santa Monica, where Michelin stars have been routine. Those skills are evident in every bite at Fia, from starters like the blissful salt and pepper calamari with blistered shishito peppers or the burrata with luscious ripe figs and smoked prosciutto. Either of those alone would make us love this place, and then the handmade pasta course arrives. Collins is a fan of fresh black truffles, which make us swoon. So when his handmade cavatelli cooked in brown butter arrives, with truffles added at the table, the smell alone is divine. The taste is even better. Fia is cooking up gorgeous seafood risotto with lobster, shrimp, scallops and octopus, too; and if a slightly less caloric dish calls to you, the perfectly prepared diver scallops served with spring pea tortellini and pancetta is a delight, with delicate flavors that are sure to delight. Pair all with their eclectic wines by the glass or one of their craft cocktails, and don't miss the "Cascading Tiramisu," a dessert that will definitely surprise you and make your sweet tooth very happy.