Adding a compelling new dimension to the Culver City dining and nightlife scene, Sublime Food Lounge offers a seasonally-inspired menu of casual creative cuisine from Executive Chef and Co-Owner Randall Rosa complimented by a curated selection of small production boutique wines and a menu of classic and chef-driven cocktails. Nestled in a glass-enclosed corner of the award-winning MODAA building and set amongst some of the city’s most dynamic art galleries, Sublime Food Lounge embodies the spirit of the Culver City Arts District with its unique blend of sophisticated yet inviting cuisine, indoor and outdoor dining, and a friendly neighborhood vibe.
“Sublime Food Lounge exudes the feel of the neighborhood bistro, but with the innovative spirit of a destination restaurant,” notes Rosa. “We’ve created a place for people who simply love good food-both approachable, and avant-garde. We love when a guest comes in for a more conventional dish and leaves having tried something new.”
To that end, Rosa’s menu at Sublime offers a variety of small and large plates ranging from classic comfort food to global modern cuisine, with all items priced under $20. Each dish on the Sublime Food Lounge menu tells a story-whether of Rosa’s own upbringing or of the inspiration which led to its creation-and everyone on staff is happy to impart these stories to curious diners. Menu highlights include Steak Frites with Prime Flatiron Steak, Truffle Fries, and a Smoked Bordelaise Sauce ($18); Mac n’ Cheese with Lobster and Bacon ($15); Foie Gras on French Toast with Passion Fruit Syrup ($15); and Root Beer Glazed Pork Belly with Strawberries, Pears, and a Jalapeno Vinaigrette ($15). The nightly “Blackboard Specials” menu showcases Chef Rosa’s seasonal culinary creations alongside a weekly rotation of wines by the glass.
Sublime Food Lounge’s wine list echoes partner Mike Neufeld’s focus on small production boutique wines from across North, Central, and South America and Europe. Divided by body type, the wine list simplifies the often complicated decision making process and encourages patrons to explore the restaurant’s more unique varietals such as Xarel-lo, a full-bodied Spanish white ($36); Vidal Ice Wine, a sweet Canadian white ($48); Valtorto, a smooth, soft Portuguese red ($28); and the Botalcura Cayao, a rare varietal from Chile ($125).
Bringing together the kitchen and bar is the Sublime Food Lounge cocktail menu which mirrors Chef Rosa’s value of seasonal ingredients and also incorporates many of the flavors, and actual components, of his dishes. For example, Chef Rosa’s own Buddha-cello ($12), infused from the exotic Buddha’s Hand fruit, is the current seasonal-cello, while the Passion Fruit Martini ($11) contains the same passion fruit syrup which dresses the Foie Gras French Toast. Additionally, off-the-menu seasonal cocktails and rare wine selections are always available to further peak the curious palate. Chef Rosa can occasionally be seen behind the bar making his liquid nitrogen Green Fairy Granita with absinthe-full strength, of course.
Solidifying the lounge’s casual creative concept is Sublime Food Lounge’s decor, personally constructed by Chef Rosa and partners Mike Neufeld and Mauricio Aquino. Handcrafted dark wooden tables fill the interior dining room and are surrounded by matching, wooden booths on the back patio. Warm light and modern art fill the walls and vintage black and white movies are projected over the bar on a nightly basis. The eight-foot long fireplace on the back patio and the sidewalk seating in front both provide the ideal atmosphere for guests to enjoy artisan cheeses or Chef Rosa’s house-cured charcuterie in the evening air.
Pre-dusk, Sublime Food Lounge carries itself from a neighborhood lunch spot for locals and professionals into a happy hour featuring small plates and gourmet flatbreads. The night brings a dark and relaxing dining experience that seamlessly transitions into a tranquil lounge, perfect for enjoying a late-night bite, classic cocktails, and eclectic lounge music. Sublime’s artistic decor, inspired food, and drink menus lend themselves well to the community in which it is located. Chef/Owner Randall Rosa and partners Mike Neufeld and Mauricio Aquino have a created a welcoming environment that has inspired a loyal following and where newcomers feel right at home.
Sublime Food Lounge is located at 8631 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232 in the heart of the Culver City Arts District. The culinary lounge is open for lunch Monday through Friday 11:30 am to 3:00 pm, dinner Tuesday through Saturday 6:00 to 11:00 pm, and happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 5:00 to 7:00pm. For reservations, menus, and additional information, please visit: www.sublimefoodlounge.com or call (310) 287-2093.
Posted 10/1/10.
