THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cafe Capo

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Cafe Capo Restaurant Review:

A spin-off of Santa Monica's pricey Capo, this venture of chef-restaurateur Bruce Marder offers more economical options by virtue of an extensive appetizer list. But this is by no means a no-frills trattoria, as tables are dressed up in white linen with tall candles, while vibrant contemporary art lines the walls and windows are framed in rich chocolate fabric. Café Capo's menu ranges from rustic Italian fare to American comfort food, with a few French influences thrown in to complement the stylish, romantic setting. Vegetables, fresh from the farmers market, are simply but deftly prepared and an eclectic wine list---representing appellations from Bordeaux to the Golan Heights---suits the extensive menu. Among starters, you'll find buttery foie gras, heirloom tomatoes with burrata cheese, Santa Barbara prawns with Tuscan-style beans, and fluffy gnocchi in rich Gorgonzola cream. Entrées include an indulgent Maine lobster risotto, hearty steaks and chops, terrific short ribs and wild salmon with creamed spinach and olive oil.