Community, Diversity, Sustainability and other Overused Words
Dining at 1 Pico in the Beautiful Shutters on The Beach, Santa Monica, California
Immerse yourself in the idyllic scenery of picture-perfect ocean views and the cozy ambiance of a crackling fireplace at 1 Pico, where the essence of California cuisine awaits. Nestled within the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere of Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, 1 Pico invites you to experience the epitome of Californian fine dining and brunch. With its beachside location, 1 Pico offers a captivating setting enhanced by a seasonal, market-driven menu and an extensive wine list, ensuring an exquisite dining experience.
With over a decade of culinary expertise from Michelin-starred restaurants and Forbes Five-Star Hotels, Executive Chef and Southern California native Sean Michael Runyon brings knowledge and creativity to 1 Pico. His culinary vision celebrates California's bounty, focusing on seasonally inspired and innovative dishes that reflect his passion for local ingredients and a commitment to exceptional dining experiences.
Before we explore Chef Sean's culinary expertise, we must note the original reason for our dining experience at 1 Pico. Ruinart commissioned renowned Chef Rob Rubba from MICHELIN-starred Oyster Oyster (D.C.) to design an experiential menu focused on environmentalism and conscious gastronomy. This exceptional, mostly vegan-tasting menu showcased meticulously crafted dishes, demonstrating Chef Rob Rubba and the team at 1 Pico's culinary prowess and dedication.
This collaboration celebrated the Ruinart Carte Blanche Program and yielded a limited-edition tasting menu with expertly curated Ruinart pairings. Guests fortunate enough to dine at 1 Pico in March may have indulged in this special menu honoring Frieze Los Angeles, a prestigious global arts fair.
Dishes include:
* Oyster* *co-created by Chef Rob Rubba: Raw Tomales Bay Oysters, Local Lemons from Moore Park, Yuzu Gel, and Diced Pickled Cucumbers. Paired with Ruinart Blanc Singulier 18th Edition.
* Pasta-GF Vegan beet pasta, Weiser farm English peas, julienned snap peas, oat and cashew cream, pea tendril. Paired with Ruinart Blanc De Blanc.
* Berry - Harries Berry strawberries; Sweet Kohlrabi whip; Candied Thai basil; Pistachio crumble. Paired with Ruinart Rosé.
This Exclusive Ruinart Pairing Menu, created by 1 Pico chef de cuisine Sean Runyon, is priced at $195 per person. With just a few days remaining in the month, there is still time to indulge in this exceptional menu. Make your reservations HERE.
On a personal note, my husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary at Shutters on the Beach precisely 14 years prior, adding to the significance and nostalgia of the evening. 1 Pico is perfect for special occasions, a date night or a family dinner.
While the limited-edition tasting menu featured standout dishes like the Oyster, Chef Sean also thoughtfully curated additional delights from their Spring menu for us to savor. The menu is divided into four sections: Embark, Restore, Savor (with options from Pasture and Dock) and Forage.
Whether you're a devoted vegan or passionate about vegetables, the offerings from their Forage menu promise to delight; we relished the John Givens Organic Tomato plate, a quintessential taste of summer that's not to be missed. Enhanced with a delicate drizzle of oil, a sprinkle of salt, and fresh basil, the robust flavor of the tomato truly shines. Additionally, the Roasted Baby Leek with Parmigiano, thyme, and extra virgin olive oil, along with the Snap Peas paired with rocket pesto, pine nuts, and oven-dried cherry tomatoes, provided a symphony of flavors to enjoy. Be sure not to overlook the Corn and Shishito Pepper dish, boasting a delectable blend of corn puree, shallots, and honey---an exquisite representation of California's culinary diversity.
For an unparalleled culinary experience, treat yourself to Chef Sean Runyon's personal favorite: the Wild-Caught Bluefin Tuna from the Savor menu. This dish epitomizes the essence of freshness, with each bite melting in your mouth and lingering on the palate.
In addition to the berry dessert, Chef Sean also presented the Hot Cookie Skillet-a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie served in a skillet, topped with creamy vanilla ice cream and drizzled with caramel sauce. It was decadent and delicious.
Locals, travelers and Shutters guests can also look forward to the Easter Brunch, which is priced at $115 per person and features some delectable spring offerings. However, the regular and children's menus will also be available for those who prefer other options.
1 Pico seamlessly merges modern sophistication with timeless Cape Cod charm, offering a contemporary interpretation of coastal elegance. With clean lines, neutral tones, and subtle maritime accents, the interior creates a serene atmosphere complemented by panoramic ocean views. Guests can immerse themselves in this tranquil setting, experiencing Cape Cod's essence reimagined for today's discerning palate.
Chef Sean's culinary style showcases excellence in sourcing fresh ingredients paired with simple flavorings, promoting clean and healthy eating. With minimal preparation and loads of culinary talent, his dishes allow the true essence of California flavors to shine, bringing the essence of California straight to your table.
Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, discover why 1 Pico is renowned for offering the finest in Californian cuisine. Whether you are seeking an intimate dinner by the fireplace or a leisurely brunch with friends, 1 Pico welcomes you to an unparalleled dining experience. Reserve your table today and elevate your culinary journey at 1 Pico, Shutters on the Beach.
1 Pico at Shutters On The Beach
1 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 587-1717
shuttersonthebeach.com
Find a Table: resy.com
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