Esterel Brings Flavorful French Cuisine To L.A.'s Sofitel

Taking its name from the coastal mountains of Var and Alpes-Maritimes in Provence, France, Esterel restaurant at the Sofitel Hotel offers diners a Mediterranean influenced menu.

After walking through the long dark corridor decorated with vintage black and white celebrity portraits, Esterel is a bright sleek space with an adjacent trendy patio area. Throughout the restaurant are large metallic wood cutouts separating dining spaces. The open kitchen also adds to the modern design.

Executive Chef Marius Blin's menu offers a variety of small plates as well as main courses. Tapas include carrot harissa, olive tapenade, and eggplant caponata; salads include a kale Caesar, raw and soft cooked egg, and wood-fired flatbreads include mozzarella and basil; baby beet, bacon and pear, and a salami Parmesan and mozzarella option. Esterel also offers a large variety of appetizer plates with highlights including the bone marrow gratin, braised sweet bread, and garlic sumac shrimp. Main courses include beef shortribs, squash agnoletti pasta, diver scallops, and a lavender honey duck breast.

Many dishes fall under the restaurant's 'De-Light' section, which includes tasty low-calorie options.

Adjacent to Esterel is the sophisticated Riviera 31, a cocktail lounge decked out in dark reds, opulent drapery, and black and white striped accents with photos by the legendary Edward Quinn.

The chic lounge offer small bites and custom French Riviera style cocktails. Personalized tableside drink preparation and live DJ's and bands Monday through Saturday add to the unique atmosphere. Reservations can be made at 310.358.3979.