My friend was visiting from LA, and we were on the hunt for a spot that had great food, a cool beachy vibe, and good energy. After poking our heads into a few places in the village, nothing felt quite right—until we walked into CdM Restaurant. Instantly, we loved it. The light was pouring in through the windows, giving the space a warm, sunlit glow, but it still felt intimate and cozy. They had electronic music playing in the background—it was the perfect Saturday afternoon vibe.
Parking was a breeze right on PCH, which was a nice bonus.
We were seated right away by the hostess at a great table for two, and our server Ruby was an absolute gem—sweet, helpful, and spot-on with her recommendations. We started with the yellowtail on crispy fried eggplant (so good), shared the chopped salad (super fresh and flavorful), and split the blue cheese burger (my knees were tingling). Everything was delicious.
We each had margaritas—mine with tequila, my friend’s with mezcal—and they were perfectly balanced. The drinks, the food, the music, the ambiance… it all came together effortlessly.
Alberto also helped us and was outstanding. Not only was he friendly and professional, but he had so much knowledge about the brand and the owner’s other ventures—from A Market on PCH, to Crystal Cove, to a restaurant in Long Beach, and even the Lido Theater. As a local real estate agent, I’m always asking questions to better understand my community, and Alberto represented the company with genuine pride and passion.
I also learned from Ruby about their members-only cigar lounge upstairs (which I’m now determined to check out—my friend’s a member and has been inviting me), and the speakeasy-style bar downstairs, which I had no idea existed, and thus area can even be reserved for private events.
All in all, it was an amazing first-time experience. Great service, great food, great vibe. I’ll definitely be back—and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting or living...
Read moreSomehow this was our first time dining at CdM and it most definitely will not be our last. Everyone we interacted with was super friendly and nice. The valet attendant is hilarious! Due to making the reservation day of we had to take an outside seating option. We got to see the inside dining area as we checked in with the hostess and will make sure next time to reserve in advance to be inside. Such great ambiance! Very inviting.
Our server (unfortunately cannot remember his name) was extremely helpful with the menu. We started with the strawberry beet salad that was fresh and delicious. The vibe check is my favorite cocktail from this restaurant group. It is so light and not too sweet. Simply perfection! I was torn between chicken piccata and cacio e pepe and he suggested I get the pasta as the side for the chicken piccata. What a great idea! I honestly couldn’t decide which was my favorite. Both are amazingly flavored dishes. The tomato salad it comes with is such a fresh addition as well. My husband got the skirt steak charred medium rare and it arrived perfectly cooked to his picky expectations. He was beyond happy! Apparently the chef was cooking the steaks so we hope it is as good next time. The mac and cheese is also super cheesy with a nice smoky flavor.
We were too full for dessert but will make sure to make room next time. I must try the strawberry rhubarb tart. Thank you CdM for providing the perfect date night. We...
Read moreParty of 4 for Friday night dinner. Outside seating in the temp tent, basically sitting in the parking lot on a green matt resembling artificial grass. We were there for the food and service so that was no problem. The food was decent and the service started great. While eating desert and finishing drinks and coffee the server brought the check, placed a “reserved” metal sign on the table and informed us that other customers checked in for this table.. in other words.. he meant we need to leave so they can give the table to others. This is at 9:35pm while several empty tables were available around. It is true that our table was slightly larger but they could have combined 2 for the other party instead of offending a locally guests’ party who have frequented this restaurant since they opened and supported them during the pandemic. We did leave before finishing our desert and drinks. We will not be back. We are also aware that the owners are in the process of opening another restaurant close by.. we will not be going there either. The owners have to address proper hospitality practices in a high end market. Until then the choices are endless where we can be much respected and appreciated as...
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