Providence

Providence: Divine protection and guidance against the elements, provides for the future.

Inspired by the natural abundance of coastal living, Providence is a fine dining destination offering an array of the world's premium wild seafood and shellfish presented in their purest and simlest form. Located on Melrose Ave, in the space originally occupied by the original {atina, the restaurant has been redesigned into a sleek and modern dining destination with subtle nods to its ocean heritage. Co-owners Donato Poto and Executive Chef Michael Cimarusti bring their passion for pure un-embelished flavors, kowledge of seafood and years of experience culled from some of the world's finest restaurants to their joint venture, Providence.

"The philosophy behind the food at Providence is rooted in my reverance for the natural state of wild fish," says Chef Cimarusti. "My goal is to help nature reveal its divine flavors, textures, and beauty."

Combined with their mastery and respect for fine cuisine, Cimarusti and Poto have developed a mennu infuenced by family and the treasures of the ocean. "My grandfather, who shared his love for the sea with me, fished for Striped Bass with homemade cane poles. From a very early age, the ocean and its bounty provided comfort and inspiration for me," says Chef Cimarusti. "We understood the tides, moon stages and what low-flying gulls might indicate. I hope to infuse a little bit of that enriching feeling that has inspired my life to Providence."

Apart from the ocean as a continuous muse, it is Chef Cimarusti and Poto's appreciation for international flavor that sets the tone for an ensemble of visually stimulating and thought provoking menu items.

Combining the coast for the freshest catch is Chef Cimarusti's passion.

"I seek out interesting species in my daily visits to the fish market,' says Chef Cimarusti. "I will continue to highlight speciality purveyers such as Morningstar Seafood in Maine, where if there's a fresh catch of Halibut, they'll call me before the fishermen come to land."

Together, Chef Cimarusti and Donato Poto have realized their vision of creating a restaurant instilled with East Coast tradition, mixed with just a slight twist of West Coast eccentricity.

Accolades:
Best New Restaurants, Esquire Magazine;
Best New Restaurant nominee, James Beard Foundation;
Best Seafood Restaurant, Los Angeles Magazine;
Top 40 Restaurants in the United States, Gayot.com;
Top 50 Restaurants in the United States, Gourmet Magazine.

Corkage $25.00 a bottle. **No Corkage on Monday evenings for parties under 10 guests.

**Dessert only reservations accepted exclusively at the following times:
Monday through Friday at 6:00pm or 10:00pm
Saturday 5:30pm, 6:00pm, or 10:00pm
Sunday 5:30pm, 6:00pm or 9:00pm

Executive chef: Michael Cimarusti
Dining Style: Fine Dining
Cross Street: Wilcox & Cole
Parking: Valet