“Michelin-level what what?!?” Oh yes, Kali has been a dream concept in the making for Chef Kevin Meehan (formerly Patina, Cafe Pinot) and partner/Kali wine director Drew Langley (former sommelier at Providence), and after the success of supper club pop-up Kali Dining, a brick and mortar space has finally been created in the heart of Larchmont.
Even after just one dish it was clear to me that the goal behind the concept was to bring guests “michelin-level” contemporary dishes – that happen to be exquisitely plated – sans white table cloths, prix-fixe menus, nerve wracking prices, and any air of stuffiness. There’s a time and a place for such an experience, but Kali has done an exemplary job creating an entire world of approachable, tangible and, most importantly, edible beauty. Rooted in using sustainable locally sourced ingredients, I have a feeling any carrot or avocado that ends up on a Kali plate would only feel so honored to be there – every dish does every ingredient proper justice.
Kali is the perfect meld between casual sensibility and fabulous fine-dining. From the flowers in your food, the incredible wine at your disposal, the space in which to relax in, to the friendly service, the puzzle pieces with this place just fit – and my what a beautiful picture they create.
Favorite Cocktail | Kali DOES offer a wonderful list of cocktails, but when a sommelier like Drew is in your midst, you take advantage of the wine list.
Must Order | Please note: nothing you order will not be gorgeous nor incredibly fresh and delicious. My standout favorites however included the bass crudo, the charred avocado, and especially the pork loin. To this day I have N E V E R had pork that tasted so juicy and so yummy in my life. Incredible.
Perfect Spot For | date night // casual fine dining // new spot // Instagram purposes // healthy options // wine with lunch // meeting over a meal // a place to impress (girl, boy, parents, clients) // quiet + cozy
Pro Tip | Get the (strawberry) Kombucha.
Fun Fact | The dynamic fine-dining duo, Kevin and Drew, have been talking about opening a restaurant together since 2001! I love that their dream has finally come to fruition.
Bonus Fact | Almost the entire menu (at least 90-95%) is made up of completely organic and sustainable ingredients. They can literally tell you where they’ve gotten everything – they may even have the chickens papers! [Portlandia reference, shout out to anyone that got that!]
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