Chef Ressul Rassallat has opened up Tapenade, (11301 W. Olympic Blvd, 90064), a modern, Mediterranean tapas restaurant on the ground floor of The Olympic Collection complex on Olympic at Sawtelle.
The high-end spot has an open kitchen, black banquette seats and chairs, three communal tables, and a semi-private dining room for 16. The menu is European meets Cali, with starters like Parmesan Brioche and Macaroni Gratin. There is a whole section for vegetables like Aubergine caviar; Fennel and Salami Salad; and Oven Baked Baby Beet Salad. Of course, there is tapenade. Feast on it with choices of Japanese Hamachi, Salmon Sashimi, Oysters and Ahi Tuna, and Warm Alaskan King Crab, to name a few. Large plates serve up Beef Piccata, Dover Sole, and Porcini Mushroom Risotto. Plus, six craft beers on tap, wines (8 to ten whites, 14 reds, two rosés and some Champagne) from the California Coast, France, Italy, and Spain. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 5-11 pm.
