Aphotic

Seafood-centric Aphotic opened in March 2023, and only four months later, the restaurant earned a coveted Michelin star and a Green Star for its commitment to sustainable practices. With his $165, 10-course, pescatarian tasting menu, chef Peter Hemsley and his team will surprise and delight you all night long with dishes that pair seafood sourced directly from local fishermen with in-season California ingredients. Settle into the moody, low-light ambiance and get ready for a ride. Like most fine dining establishments, the technique and presentation at Aphotic are top-tier, but unlike many, these don’t trump flavor, and you’ll want to devour every last bite of each course. Picture warm milk bread paired with Dungeness crab curry hollandaise or Tsar Nicoulai caviar elegantly encircled with thinly sliced spot prawn. Seafood even extends to dessert: the oyster ice cream is the most creative. Cocktails are another standout, as one of the few restaurants distilling its own spirits in-house. Don’t miss the aphotic martini, served tableside. Tip: if you’re not looking for a tasting menu, book a seat at the bar, which has a separate and equally stunning menu.