Together with his tight-knit team, Chef/owner Christopher Barnum-Dann brings unusual warmth to this intimate setting. His enthusiasm is instantly palpable as he happily explains his inspiration behind particular dishes and even solicits feedback. This is especially true for diners who sit at the spacious counter.The freewheeling tasting menu is thoroughly Californian in its commitment to carefully sourced ingredients, while also drawing upon global cuisines, reimagining flavors from the chef's travels with impressive imagination. Whimsy is a common thread throughout, as in a puffed pillow of crisp potato filled with "Fancy French Onion Dip" and caviar, or "The Dish That Made Us," a single woodfire-roasted octopus tentacle with black peppercorn sauce and pickled cherries.