🌟 LA Michelin One-Star Kali — Thought It’d Be a Letdown

Kali is known for its Californian cuisine, sourcing all ingredients locally. The decor… not exactly what you’d expect from a Michelin spot 😂 — so minimalist I almost thought I walked into the wrong place. Simple, direct, zero frills. We ordered the Chef’s Menu — 9 courses. 🥢 Pre-appetizer trio — three one-bite bites: uni, abalone, oyster. Sauces were nicely balanced — clean, fresh, woke up the palate. 🥩 Beef Tartare Tartlet — I usually avoid raw beef (bad prep = bad aftermath 😅), but this had zero gaminess, just sweet, savory beef flavor. 🥬 Seasonal Vegetables — lol saw the culinary school student plating this at the GM station. Simple, fresh, pure veggie goodness. 🥣 Celeriac (Celery Root) — a standout! I love celery, but never had it like this — the purée was unexpectedly delicious. 🐟 Black Cod — delicate and well-cooked. 🍖 Main: Duck + Lamb Leg — perfect doneness, seasoning, sauce, veg pairing. Just really tasty. 🧀 Cheese Course — the only one I didn’t get… maybe I’m just not a cheese person (too milky/funky for me). 🍦 Dessert: Meringue Ice Cream — their signature! Creamy ice cream with cured egg yolk — surprisingly amazing combo. 💰 ~$250+ per person. I’d go back when they refresh the menu — their seasonal tasting menu is also solid and decently priced. #MichelinRestaurantVisit #RestaurantRecommendation #HiddenGem