Soleil AND P'tit Soleil

Every time I come here, I debate getting something else on the menu, but I always fall back to the Pumpkin Ravioli. It's savory, with a hint of sweetness and just the right portion. I always wonder whether or not I'm going to need more food, but it's the perfect size.

Everyone on staff is so friendly, helpful, and attentive.

I have to say, this is my favorite restaurant in all of Los Angeles. That says a lot.

Had the Poulet Christine for lunch @ Soleil, and it was delicious. The only thing that sucked was the music, seemingly piped in from a convention hotel lobby. Good thing the meal helped me block that out!

I must admit, Soleil lives up to the hype!

I went here with some of my friends after my Finals were over. It is not far from the UCLA campus, about a 20 to 25 minute walk. We made reservations for the AYCE Mussels, and we were excited to try them out.

To start off, we ordered escargots and pumpkin ravioli as appetizers. The escargots were delicious, having the right balance between soft and chewy, and it was beautifully drenched in a butter/olive oil sauce blend. The pumpkin ravioli was sweet, with a subtle taste of cinnamon and nutmeg. The taste reminded me of sweet potatoes, so I was surprised that it was actually pumpkin! We were also served warm, crusty bread in which we dipped into the butter/olive oil mixture from the escargots.

Now, the mussels: it was a four-course meal of just pure, protein-building shellfish. Each course had its mussels cooked in different kinds of sauces: wine, cream, beer, and even curry! Fries were served on the side, crispy thin and salty. It was good.

The service was excellent: our waiter was attentive and even surprised us by slyly sliding into our conversation, as a joke. It was hilarious. He also took pictures of us, to commemorate our first dining experience at Soleil.

In the end, the bill came out to be around $98, but we tipped our waiter generously. The final came out to be around $120, I think. Regardless, it was a wonderful night out after a long year of school. I would certainly come back here again!

P.S. I'm also interested in trying their Poutine at their adjacent restaurant, Petit Soleil. Until next time!