Culina is an upscale Italian restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles. We dined in a booth on the terrace, which was wonderfully presented and illuminated with fairy lights draped from the trees. The scene is set for a magical evening, it’s a romantic place to dine with a loved one and doesn’t disappoint. The food is faultless, and taste is at the forefront of their agenda.
We begun with a couple of pre-dinner cocktails, their cocktail menu is full of interesting temptations, we settled on a ‘Rolls Royce’, which was mixed with Gin, Vermouth, Benedictine and Orange Bitters. An enjoyable cocktail not short on alcohol. We also sampled a ‘Royal Smile’, which was mixed with Gin, Apple Brandy, Lime and Pomegranate concoction, very refreshing and certainly raised a smile.
To begin, we ordered Spaghetti Alla Chitarra, with a San Marzano Tomato Sauce, Pepperoncino and Basil. A quintessential Italian starter, which tasted superb. Keeping in line with Italian starters, we also ordered a Papardelle Bolognese, a dish prepared with Beef, Veal, Pork Ragu and Pecorino Nero.
“We had a wonderful evening and wouldn’t hesitate to return.”
For our main course we ordered their 7oz Grilled Tenderloin, served with Braised Heirloom Beans and Herb Butter. This dish was nothing short of splendid, the tenderloin was cooked to perfection, juicy, tender, and delicious. My partner ordered the Salmon, served with Beluga Lentils, Baby Heirloom Carrots, Cumin and Lime Vinaigrette. Another splendid dish, top marks for the presentation. We added a side dish of Spinach Rossi with Garlic and Olive Oil to complete our mains courses.
To complete our evening we shared a selection of Sorbet, flavours included Raspberry, Coconut and Lemon, each flavour was equally as enjoyable. Our chosen wine for the evening was Dennis Martin Sanctuary Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, USA, 2012. A rich wine with strong black cherries and plum flavours, accompanied by spicy notes.
We had a wonderful evening and wouldn’t hesitate to return. If you enjoy Italian cuisine you’re in for a treat at Culina.