Farmshop--Larkspur, CA (Californian cuisine)

An artisanal dining creation led by a drive to offer farm-fresh and well-crafted cuisine, this establishment has two locations: one in Santa Monica and the one I visited recently is located at 2233 Larkspur Landing in Larkspur. This was a very large, bright, open space with a long bar, fire hearth, domed pizza oven and an elegantly decorated outside dining area. The menu is focused on local, seasonal, fresh ingredients. I was impressed with the level of detail to each aspect of our meal, down to the fresh garnishes.

Here are some of the things I've enjoyed.

http://farmshopca.com/



The Mission. Made with fig-infused bourbon, bruleed figs and barrel-aged bitters. This was a spirit-forward beverage with wonderful aromas of fig, sweet bourbon and smoke. Definitely a sipping drink that left a nice tingle on the tongue.

After Ferry. This fizzy cocktail was made with vodka, strawberry, mint, ginger shrub and prosecco. It was just sweet enough to bring out the strawberry and mint and the mild bitter finish of the prosecco was a nice balance to the fruit and ginger. Very refreshing.

Avocado Hummus. This was a creamy mix of fresh avocado, drizzled with olive oil and topped with a Pistachio salsa verde, nigella seeds and served with crunchy, nutty house-baked lavash. It was quite tasty.

Zubair's Shakshuka. A light stew made with Riverdog Farm tomatoes, braised greens and Full Belly Farm peppers. The runny shirred eggs rounded it out nicely as well as the fresh herbs and rustic, hearty bread.

Foraged Porcini. An excellently prepared pizza with expertly charred thin crust, La Quercia speck ham, fontina cheese, Star Route Farms oregano and herbed walnuts. This was a delicious and well-balanced pizza. It was thin enough to feel light, but hearty enough to feel satisfying.

Affogato. I forgot to ask the server what kind of coffee this was, but it was very robust with full-bodied flavor and deep, rich aromas. The ice cream cut just enough bitterness to make this a very well-rounded dessert.

Coffee & Chicory Pot de Creme. I would say this was in the "best ever" category of pot de cremes. Made with bittersweet Valrhona chocolate, coffee and brittle-like candied almonds. The whipped cream on top added a light sweetness. This was a dessert with full check marks down the list of all textures, flavors and wonderfulness.

I would happily drive an hour and a half again to visit this retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. I would also bring everyone I know with me so they, too, can experience the joy of life at this bright eatery.