Tapenade offers a solid team composed mainly of European and U.S. chefs who work closely together. “It is a rich feeling to have their dedication and knowledge,” says owner and chef Jean-Michel Diot. “We work daily on keeping the culinary scene interesting while maintaining gourmet classics at the highest level.” Don’t miss the Wild Mushroom Ravioli, Scottish Partridge, or Shrimp and Lobster Risotto. Sometimes special dishes are created upon the customer’s request. “They have the souvenir of a dish they tried in France or somewhere else, and they would like us to recreate it; most of the time we are successful with this,” says Diot. (858/551-9913, www.tapenaderestaurant.com) MARIA DESIDERATA MONTANA
