Best Restaurants for Creative Cuisine in Playa del Rey

New Years Day and we wanted some place that we knew would be fantastic, so where else but Gjelina? It was busy but the hosts and servers were unfailingly polite. We ordered 6 things from the menu. My wife's vegan so she had the vegetable sandwich (she had to fight me for it, it was so good). Brussel sprouts, grilled fennel, and the frites were all great. My son and I split the anchovy and burrata toast - a first for me - and it's my new favorite. Finished with the excellent pomodoro pizza - no cheese and none needed, because the jammy tomato confit is the star of the dish. I love this place. It never lets me down. Happy 2025!

What a treat! Start with the service and ambiance: elegant, personal, kind, interested in our experience. Choices were unique, beautifully presented and out of this world tasty. Dumplings (chicken and shiitake) were perfect for me, as was the salmon. My husband had the tofu and black rice/black beans. Incredible seasonings/sauces/broths/sides. The highlight, believe it or not, was the pecan torte at the end. Insane. And Vietnamese coffee, of course. Wine and beer options are great too. If you like seafood, pork, beef… I’m sure it’s awesome, I just don’t eat it! On that level it was limited (ie, pectarian/vegetarian) but it was totally worth it. XO

The entire experience was incredible. There were five tables of two that were nicely spaced apart. There was an open kitchen so we could see the four chefs while they prepared each course. The three servers and Sommelier were top-notch. We loved the ambience and the food was amazing. One of the best Michelin star restaurants we’ve been to. 

Our dining experience was quite outstanding. Food was excellent; service was excellent; ambience was very nice - nice view, heaters worked well. Although it is quite expensive, for an quality experience, I would recommend it.

Wonderful restaurant with beautiful architecture and style. Great food, great service and very relaxing atmosphere. My girlfriend had a great time here for her birthday.