By Andrew Congdon
New York’s Mediterranean mainstay Fig & Olive made a splash this week by celebrating the opening of its first West Coast location with a three-night extravaganza. Friday’s event, An Evening in the South of France, featured fashion by Chloé, champagne by Moët & Chandon and regional appetizers by Michelin-star guest chefs Sebastien Chambru and Serge Gouloumès.
Those fortunate enough to attend the invitation-only event supped upon zucchini carpaccio, boquerones anchovies and manchego, fig spread and almond crostinis. 
Founder Laurent Halasz declares the cuisine and décor will serve to “welcome guests into the essence of the Mediterranean region in which I grew up.” He keeps his promise by using olive oils in every dish, exploring new flavors with executive chef Pascal Larange (once Julio Iglesias’ personal chef) and playing music from DJs well-known in the French and Italian Riviera. The up-tempo mixes of St. Tropez DJ Julien Nolan enhanced the ambience of Friday’s event.
The venue, located at 8490 Melrose Place, is poised at the cross roads of film and fashion, just minutes from MOCA and seconds from shopping. Rosemary plants and olive trees provide fragrance while limestone stucco walls, marble topped bars, and wicker couches transport patrons from the South Land to the South of France instantly. The 8,000 square foot floor plan accommodates up to 300 guests with both indoor and outdoor seating.
The second floor hosts the Fig & Olive Champagne Bar & Lounge, where guests can enjoy $12-14 cocktails or champagne by Moët & Chandon, Ruinart, Dom Pérignon and Veuve Clicquot.
Those wishing to take part of the Mediterranean home with them can visit the retail space adjacent to the restaurant’s entrance. There they can find unique assortments of oils, vinegars, and of course, olives and spreads. Product prices range from $12-32. Fig & Olive opens to the public this week, and while reservations are recommended for the main dining room and terrace they are not mandatory for the front room, giving spontaneous foodies a chance to come and “fig” out.
Lunch options include Shrimp and Salmon Salad, a French Riviera Rotisserie Chicken, Cucumber and Pink Peppercorn Soup and Herbs de Provence Paillard Chicken. Dinner consists of Seared Sea Scallops and Truffle Artichoke Tapenade, Porcini and Gorgonzola Jamon Iberico Ravioli, or Provence Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops, amongst others. Save room for dessert, because Warm Caramelized Apple Tarts, Lavender Honey Madeleines and Green Apple sorbet are just a few of the delights prepared by Pastry Chef Andrew LeStourgeon.
If you’d like to treat your taste buds to a Mediterranean getaway look no further than Fig & Olive on Melrose Place. You won’t need your passport, but you should bring your appetite. Bon appétit!
8490 Melrose Place
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310.36.9100
www.FigandOlive.com
Reservations: Click here…
