WHERE NOW OCTOBER

DINING/SHOPPING

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Back on the Block Fia, a new dining destination occupying the longtime Wilshire Restaurant address, is a homecoming of sorts for Brendan Collins. Seasoned restaurateur Michael Greco tapped the English chef—who received accolades at Mélisse, Waterloo & City, Birch and, most recently, Wilshire itself—to helm the kitchen at Fia as well. This time around, the menu is influenced by the California and Amalfi coasts—meaning lots of fresh, local produce and seafood. Standout dishes include grilled corn with truffled mascarpone and brown-butter truffle sauce; hand-cut capel-

lini topped with lobster Bolognese, basil and San Marzano tomato; and the massive seven-day Flannery Beef shank served with pickled vegetables and piadina bread. Cocktails (like those pictured here) are courtesy of L.A.’s “Godfather of Cocktails,” Vincenzo Marianella, and the list of Italian, French and Californian wines is overseen by Tara John (formerly of Wally’s Beverly Hills). Everything is presented in an inviting indoor/outdoor space that boasts one of the prettiest patios in town.  2454 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.586.1707, fiarestaurant.com

9/11/19 1:41 PM