Fin has been open in Culver City for more than a year which is a whole lotta time in my life I was not enjoying Fin. Which is a shame. It's pretty damned delightful and I had one helluva meal there recently.
Tip for future restaurants I go to: Welcome me with a cocktail. It's a huge win. This one in particular was an ideal choice as I am ever the girlish drinker. We all know by now that I gravitate toward the sweeter hand crafted beverages, yes? And thanks to technology (it's like magic!), I've lifted the ingredients right off the page! Please note it is impossible to order a "Hello Kitty" without smiling.
Look at that amazing photography. That deep red is NOT filtered, guys. It reminded me of a deep, romantic sunset (pardon me whilst I fan myself), which was a great end for a great day and the perfect start for a perfect meal.
The thing I liked most about Fin's menu? It's unexpected. You cannot pigeonhole this spot. While it's clearly Asian inspired, I challenge you to find another menu like it in the Los Angeles area. They also serve everything on the menu with class - you are enjoying the taste of five-star food in an elegant setting without an ounce of pretension.
I'm not going in order - I'm starting with my favorite dish. The Spicy Rock Shrimp Tempura.
Pro tip: Do not let the endive go uneaten. Scoop up a couple pieces of shrimp and take a big bite. The contrast of the bitter leaf with the sweet and spicy shrimp is wonderful. Bonus points go to our server who noticed I wasn't eating it and made the recommendation.
The Salmon Sashimi had a touch of citrus and a truffle salt. It was my very close second favorite. The salmon was so fresh and rich in flavor on its own but that truffle salt was a wonderful kick in the mouth. (But like a good kick in the mouth. For reals.) And how can you go wrong with pot-stickers? (It is worth noting that when I got to this point in writing the post, I stopped and ordered Chinese takeout. It wasn't as amazing as Fin, of course, but I just really needed pot-stickers in a hurry in that moment.)
I love a light, warm, delicious baked crab hand roll. This one did not disappoint. And here is the biggest mind-blower. I found myself trying mushrooms! I HATE MUSHROOMS. But here, they're diced up and lightly battered, sprinkled over a pretty tasty beef carpaccio so it's actually a great accent to the dish. As the beef bursts with flavor, you get a nice, satisfying tang from the sauce and crunchy mushrooms. I loved it right down the sesame seeds.
And that brings us to the end of this marvelous experience. Mochi is such a prefect dessert, guys. Always a sweet, refreshing little bite to top off a fabulous, savory meal.
Culver City is a great meeting spot -- it's so centrally located and is a hotbed of amazing restaurants and bars. Fin is a champion among the roster. They now serve dinner and lunch, parking is a breeze, it's great for groups or couples (shout out to the couple sitting across from us that was playing tonsil hockey all night) so you have no excuse!
I was stuffed when all was said and done so I had to call it but I've already started a mental list of things I want to try next time I'm there.
More:
- Fin is located at 12223 W. Washington Blvd. in Culver City.
- There is ample street parking and they have a valet during high-traffic hours.
- You can follow them on all the socials: Twitter, Facebook and Instragram.
- They take reservations!
Even more because WAIT! That's not all! Fin has a secret speakeasy in the back!!! And it is AWESOME. Look for the alley opening to the right of the entrance (facing it) and head to the back. I think this place is coming soon to a birthday party near me (or, if you rather, near MAY).
Disclosure: This meal was hosted by the lovely team at Fin Culver City. The food was hosted by my grateful belly. Opinions are my own. As if I could fool you, cleaver readers.
