Camélia: A Fusion of French and Japanese Cuisine in LA
In a transformative culinary experience, Courtney Kaplan and Charles Namba have redefined the dining landscape of Los Angeles with the opening of Camélia, a bistro in the Arts District that seamlessly melds French and Japanese flavors. Located in a historic building that once housed the renowned Church & State, Camélia is a testament to the creative vision of its owners, who have poured their hearts and souls into crafting a menu that pushes the boundaries of traditional bistro fare.
The Journey to Camélia
The story of Camélia is not just about food; it’s a tale of resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication. When the pandemic threatened the closure of their beloved izakaya, Tsubaki, in Echo Park, Kaplan and Namba found solace in dreaming about a new venture. The result? A bistro that marries the elegance of French cuisine with the bold flavors of Japan, a dream that has finally come to fruition in the heart of LA’s Arts District.
As you step into Camélia, you are transported to a world where every dish tells a story, where every bite is a revelation. From plush purple-yam blinis topped with Dungeness crab to beef cheeks braised in red wine and freshly grated wasabi root, each creation is a masterpiece of flavor and technique. Namba’s meticulous attention to detail shines through in every dish, from the ginger-infused brandy sauce to the seaweed cream that accompanies the roast chicken.
The Art of Fusion
At the heart of Camélia lies the seamless fusion of French and Japanese cultures, a reflection of Kaplan and Namba’s shared experiences and culinary journeys. Namba’s upbringing in Los Angeles and Kaplan’s deep-rooted love for Japanese cuisine have culminated in a menu that is as diverse as it is delicious. From miso butter sweet potato gratin to scallops and oyster mushrooms glossed with dashi-lime cream, each dish is a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Kaplan’s expertise in wine and sake is unparalleled, with a list that showcases classic French styles alongside up-and-coming producers. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual sipper, Kaplan’s selection of wines and sakes is sure to delight your palate. And for those looking to explore beyond alcoholic beverages, bar lead Kevin Nguyen’s nonalcoholic cocktails are a must-try, with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Unveiling a Culinary Masterpiece
As Camélia continues to evolve and refine its menu, there are bound to be hits and misses along the way. From the dry Parker House rolls to the elusive $70 duck frites, Namba and his team are constantly striving to perfect their creations. But for every misstep, there is a moment of brilliance, a dish that transcends labels and redefines the boundaries of bistro cuisine.
So the next time you find yourself in Los Angeles, make a reservation at Camélia and prepare to be dazzled by a culinary experience like no other. From the exquisite blinis to the decadent croque-madame, every bite is a testament to the creativity and passion of Kaplan and Namba. Come hungry, come curious, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the art of fusion cuisine.
