Located at the waterfront Hotel Californian, Blackbird is as attractive as its surroundings. Inside, its décor blends art deco and mid-century styles, with an “air kiss” to the private clubs of yesteryear. Striking arched doors seem to let the sea breeze wash over the room and an inviting bar runs the length of the space with plenty of creative cocktails.
The kitchen keeps the nearby Pacific in mind with first courses like Dungeness crab puffs with Manchego cheese and Urfa pepper-spiked honey. Spaghetti with local sea urchin, Calabrese pepper and smoked seaweed, or a whole roasted branzino with ramps, beets and grilled onion jam keep the theme going. Expect a creative finish, such as a fig pavlova with a drizzle of savory olive oil.