Could this be the best-kept dining secret in Santa Monica?
Located on the third floor of Santa Monica Place inside Nordstrom, Blue Stove has been serving those in the know since September 2011 – the same time the department store opened.
Blue Stove is named after its matching blue stoves on its frontline that draw a lot of attention.
General manager Michael Brand said Blue Stove was a stylish yet casual restaurant featuring its interpretation of contemporary flavors focusing on bold tastes and textures.
“The menu allows our customer the chance to experience our offerings through a variety of small plates that are bold in concept and internationally inspired,” Brand said. “We invite our customers to select combinations of menu items with the goal of sharing each dish, making a dining experience unlike any other.”
Brand said the exhibition kitchen provides a stage for its chefs to prepare the menu in a colorful, energetic environment while its wine bar provides an alternative dining experience.
“Blue Stove is a full service restaurant that prides itself on service that is both professional and relaxed while demonstrating knowledge and passion for our food and wine,” he said. “Our cuisine is inspired by local ingredients at the peak of seasonal freshness and all organic. The menu is complemented by a well-chosen selection of interesting wines, many available by the glass to pair well with the menu.”
Brand said the core menu changes twice a year; once for fall/winter and again for spring/ summer.
“This allows us to offer seasonal ingredients at the peak of freshness,” he said. “Some of our most popular items are the Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos, the Crisp & Spicy Dark Cherry Glazed Beef, the Heirloom Tomato Salad & Burrata Cheese. We have weekly specials created by our Chef from some of the freshest ingredients from the local Farmers Market.”
While the restaurant is located inside a department store, Brand said he and his staff pride themselves on being a destination location as well as a convenience for both the Nordstrom shopper as well as the everyday diner.
“Regardless of the occasion, the Blue Stove staff prides themselves on phenomenal service, ambiance, and food,” he said. “Located amongst more than 1,500 restaurants in a five mile radius, the Blue Stove strives to set ourselves apart by offering the freshest ingredients, some of the most unique specials, a wine list of fun and eclectic wines, and a dining experience like no other. We are available for large parties, business lunches, special occasions, and we are family friendly.”
Blue Stove is open Monday through Saturday at 10 am, Sunday at 11 am. It closes Monday through Thursday at 8:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 9 pm, and Sundays at 7:30 pm.
Blue Stove
220 Broadway (Nordstrom, Upper level)
310.752.4110