Cinnamon Spice

Named after the oversize Chinese variety of cinnamon, the new French-Asian chic bistro, Cassia, is a partnership between husband and wife duos Bryant and Kim Ng and Josh Loeb and Zoe Nathan. Taking its roots from Bryant and Kim’s culinary heritage and experiences, Cassia celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia, striking a unique balance of soulful, ancestral cuisine and a California sensibility, utilizing the best quality ingredients from local farmers. The grand, 5,000 square-foot, 16-foot-ceilinged restaurant glows… literally, with a grill area and wood-burning stove, and counter seating bathing in the warmth of the lights above. The restaurant sits in the base of a magnificent 1937 Art Deco building in Santa Monica where Verizon is also a tenant.

Having worked at Campanile and Mozza, Ng is creating dishes that redefine the idea of a brasserie in L.A. Partners Loeb and Nathan are beyond busy these days with their food empire that includes Rustic Canyon, Milo & Olive, Huckleberry, and Sweet Rose Creamery. But when they saw the building’s architecture, they felt the rush that comes with pure possibility. They’re now also working to open Esters, the building’s adjacent wine bar and store with bottles that can be consumed at Cassia, later in the summer. Essentially, Ng had a reputation to uphold when he basically moved his restaurant, Spice Table, to the Westside. To locals and those in the know, Cassia is one of the most important restaurants to open in Santa Monica this year. www.cassiala.com