Meteora’s Michelin Magic: A Futuristic Feast in the Heart of LA

Anniversaries are always special, but this year, our celebration at Meteora felt like something out of a dream. We had planned a dinner at this Michelin-starred restaurant on Melrose Avenue, expecting an extraordinary meal. What we didn’t anticipate was that our reservation would fall on the very first full dinner service after Meteora earned its first Michelin star—an incredible coincidence that made the night even more memorable.

Even more exciting, we were among the final guests to experience Chef Jordan Kahn’s acclaimed 11-course Omakase menu, the very menu that secured Meteora its Michelin-starred status. What followed was an evening of innovative flavors, artistic presentation, and a dining experience that blurred the lines between nature and the future.

The Atmosphere: A Futuristic Escape into Nature

From the moment we stepped inside, Meteora felt like another world. It was as if we had boarded a spacecraft designed by nature itself—a place where futuristic design met organic beauty. The space was adorned with oversized sculptural mushrooms, lush greenery, and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow that allowed natural light to cast a golden glow over the dining room.

The color palette was earthy yet sleek, with soft, ambient lighting that made the space feel both intimate and ethereal. The environment had a deliberate balance—elevated and artistic, yet still rooted in something raw and elemental. It was the perfect setting for a dining experience focused on nature’s bounty and the interplay of flavors.

The 11-Course Omakase: A Journey Through Nature’s Flavors

Each course in Chef Jordan Kahn’s Omakase menu was a sensory exploration of nature’s ingredients. The dishes weren’t just about taste; they were about texture, temperature, and visual artistry, taking us on an unexpected journey through land and sea.

Standout Dishes from the Evening

Moonfish, Melon, Macadamia Nut

A delicate and refreshing start to the meal, the sweetness of the melon played beautifully against the silky moonfish, while the crunch of macadamia nuts added a textural contrast that kept things interesting.

Eastern Oyster, Flaming Beef Fat

A bold, smoky bite, this dish featured an oyster bathed in flaming beef fat, adding an unexpected depth of umami. The briny freshness of the oyster cut through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced, luxurious bite.

Tomato, Smoked Almond, Job’s Tears

This dish took us by surprise—a seemingly simple tomato dish turned into something layered and complex. The smoky almonds added depth, while Job’s Tears (an ancient grain) contributed a creamy texture that tied everything together.

Bass, Chili Praline

A delightful mix of sweet and heat, the tender bass was complemented by a chili praline that left a lingering warmth on the palate. Unexpected yet harmonious—one of the more creative dishes of the night.

Burnt Yam, Smoked Trout Roe, Hazelnut

One of the most texturally interesting courses, featuring caramelized yam, salty smoked trout roe, and crunchy hazelnuts. The contrast between the smoky, sweet, and nutty elements made each bite exciting.

Ribeye of Aged Dairy Cow (Our Favorite Course!)

This dish was perfection in simplicity. The ribeye, aged to develop deep umami flavors, was tender, intensely flavorful, and beautifully cooked. The kind of dish that reminds you why sometimes, all you need is exceptional quality and precise execution.

Squash Blossom Filled with Warm Custard

A beautifully delicate dish that acted as a palate cleanser after the richer courses. The warm, velvety custard inside the light, crispy squash blossom was comforting and elegant.

Wild Cacao, Orinoco Banana, Candied Macambo

A deeply satisfying yet balanced dessert, blending wild cacao’s intensity with the creamy richness of Orinoco banana and the crunch of candied macambo. Not overly sweet, but rich and complex—a fitting end to an unforgettable meal.

Service & Wine Pairing: Almost Perfect

The service at Meteora was warm and professional, though we could tell that the staff was still adjusting to the pressure of their newly earned Michelin star. While there were a few minor hiccups in pacing, the team’s enthusiasm and passion for the experience made up for it.

The wine pairing was expertly curated, highlighting the flavors of each course without overpowering them. My wife indulged in the full pairing, while I opted for craft cocktail pairings and a few beers thoughtfully chosen by the bartender. This flexibility in drink pairings added a personalized touch that we really appreciated.

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Experience We’ll Never Forget

Our anniversary dinner at Meteora wasn’t just a meal—it was a journey into the future of fine dining, where nature, art, and flavor intersected in the most unexpected ways. Dining during their first Michelin-star service and being among the last to experience the 11-course Omakase menu made the night feel even more special. Chef’s creativity, paired with the restaurant’s otherworldly ambiance, made this an experience we’ll always cherish.

Would We Return to Meteora?

Yes, without a doubt. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience—the creative flavors, stunning presentation, and unique ambiance made for an unforgettable meal. While there were minor service hiccups, they didn’t overshadow the overall experience. We’d gladly return to see how the menu evolves. If you’re looking for a dining experience that challenges expectations, delights the senses, and transports you into an immersive world of flavor, Meteora is a must-visit in Los Angeles.

Plan Your Visit to Meteora

📍 Meteora
📍 6703 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA
🌟 Michelin Stars: ⭐
🍽 Tasting Menus Available

For more photos and videos of each course, check out our Instagram for the full visual experience!

For more Michelin starred dining DINK adventures, check out our post Singlethread: DINK’s 3-Hour Extraordinary Dining Experience .

Have you dined at Meteora or had a meal that completely redefined how you think about food? Drop a comment and share your most unforgettable fine dining experiences! 🍽✨