When you've got gourmet guests on the Promenade, try Fraiche, an unpretentious French-Mediterranean that's taken over the former Riva space.

This sequel to the celebrated Culver City original (one of The NY Times' top ten US restaurants) might look like just another casual, upscale spot, but they do everything just that much better than you might expect. This is a grown-up, hype-free restaurant, with soft light and comfortable, intimate seating.

The staff helps set the mood. Professional and enthusiastic, they'll help steer you through a menu of unique, creative dishes you don’t often see. Even the sommelier makes the wine list accessible, focusing on the best option and (refreshingly) mentioning the price.

Start with meaty oysters and a charcuterie plate of salty prosciutto cut thicker than the easily disintegrating shavings you might be used to. A spicy, seasonal pumpkin soup with mushroom and cardamom marshmallows is rich enough to be a dessert.

Entrees are hearty variations on the Culver City originals. Thin black ink tagliettini and seafood is balanced perfectly, not drowning in pool of sauce. A sweetly glazed pork chop has just right amount of fattiness, making it moist and tender.
 
For dessert, order chocolate bread pudding with peanut brittle ice cream.