With Somni 2.0 open and thriving, it's interesting to look back at the original concept in the SLS (menu at end of photos). Upon opening in 2018, Somni then immediately earned to two stars.
Plenty of molecular gastronomy influences, such as white beans that were in fact spheres full of liquid. A few years later, I encountered several similar ideas and techniques at Disfrutar. I didn't have much exposure to that type of cuisine in 2018, so at the time I didn't fully appreciate Somni; in retrospect, I'd say the team is world-class in the molecular gastronomy space.
The sculpture at the end, which I must admit was somewhat underwhelming, was to celebrate my birthday.
Best wishes to the team now as the current restaurant on Santa Monica is not far from the fires.
by musicgolf