With bright mustard walls that are a little unsettling at first, Pinot Brasserie’s design feels odd and foreign until you realize that the bistro authentically evokes the look and feel of a French café. Wooden doors, walls, and accents abound, along with cozy wine-colored banquettes, marble counters, and vintage accessories straight from Parisian flea markets. Chef Joachim Splichal handpicked the décor for this award-winning restaurant in The Venetian, which includes a French door façade from a hotel in Lyon. His effort was worth it, as Pinot Brasserie is a casual, charming, and even relaxing setting for a delicious lunch or dinner.

Famous for his line of Pinot restaurants in Los Angeles, Chef Splichal offers classic French favorites with Californian influences at Pinot Brasserie. Regardless of what direction you decide to steer your meal in, you’ll find authentic French delights – there’s even a Cheese menu with 13 different selections. For lunch, the Onion Soup Gratinée is a classic served just as it should be – with savory broth, a crusty baguette, and just the right amount of Gruyere cheese melted on top. The Mussel “Marinière” is also delicious, and lighter selections like the Niçoise Salad provide the perfect mid-day meal.

Dinnertime, however, offers an even more impressive variety of flavorful dishes ranging from fresh seafood to hearty steaks. For starters, try the Escargots – you’ll forget you’re eating snails when you try these miniature delights simmered in a garlic beurre blanc sauce with a yellow frisee salad dressed in truffle vinaigrette. For the main course, the Seared Sea Scallop with herbed leek fondant and crispy chorizo is a winner every time. The grilled Filet Mignon is also positively succulent, served with sides like potato mousseline or sautéed vegetables. And for a romantic meal for two, try one of the Chef’s Shellfish Platters, which serve up ample portions of oysters, shrimps, clams, and mussels.

With an atmosphere that lends itself to cozy first dates or entertaining dinners with friends, Pinot Brasserie is lively, pleasant, and very tasty. Service is excellent; the staff is always available to help you pick the perfect accompaniment from their ample wine list. And though the cuisine may be too rich to make it a restaurant you could eat at twice in one week, Pinot Brasserie is the perfect ingredient for creating a truly special evening.