Hello dear
Welcome To Opaque
At Opaque, we invite diners to embark on an extraordinary culinary journey that transcends traditional dining. Nestled in Santa Monica, our New American restaurant offers a unique “Dining in the Dark” experience, where guests savor expertly crafted dishes while served by trained visually impaired staff. Highlights include the succulent Roasted Herb Chicken and Seared Atlantic Salmon, perfectly complemented by our exquisite desserts like Mango Panna Cotta. The intimate atmosphere fosters conversation and connection, ensuring that every visit is not just a meal but a memorable adventure. Join us, let your senses guide you, and discover the magic of dining beyond sight.
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Wine
$9.00Beer
$7.00Soft Drinks
$3.50
Roasted Herb Chicken Breast
Seared Atlantic Salmon
Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Rigatoni
Filet Mignon
Mango Panna Cotta
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake
About
Opaque
Welcome to the intriguing world of Opaque, a one-of-a-kind dining experience nestled in the heart of Santa Monica at 2020 Wilshire Blvd. If you're searching for a meal that delights not only the palate but also the senses in an unparalleled way, Opaque holds the key to an unforgettable culinary adventure.
At Opaque, the New American cuisine embarks on a journey into the dark, allowing diners to savor their meals in complete blindness. This vibrant dining concept invites you to step outside your comfort zone. Each dish is skillfully crafted, ensuring that every bite is as surprising as it is delicious.
- Appetizers: Begin your meal with the juicy Roasted Herb Chicken Breast, perfectly complemented by garlic broccoli and sticky rice, or indulge in the flavors of the Seared Atlantic Salmon, delicately infused with a buttery caper sauce.
- Main Dishes: The Sundried Tomato Pesto Rigatoni offers a medley of roasted eggplant, zucchini, and onions, finished with feta cheese. Meanwhile, the Filet Mignon, topped with roasted peppers and garlic, promises to be as delightful as it is tender.
- Desserts: For those with a sweet tooth, the Mango Panna Cotta drizzled with coconut crème anglaise or the Warm Chocolate Lava Cake will provide a sweet ending to a memorable evening.
Accompany your meal with a selection of wines and beers, ideal for enhancing the flavors of your feast. The atmosphere here is just as crucial as the food itself. Customer reviews highlight the comfortable yet exhilarating ambiance created by gentle conversations and the warm presence of legally blind servers who guide you through this extraordinary experience.
As the reviews suggest, visiting Opaque is much more than simply dining; it’s an immersive adventure. Guests report challenges in the dark becoming a source of laughter and connection, emphasizing the importance of being open-minded and chill while enjoying this unique platform of communication and dining. Notable patrons like Lauren Kay and Angela Lard rave about the exceptional staff and fantastic food, saying it's all worth the price for such a rare experience.
So, gather your friends or loved ones (grown-ups only; keep the kids at home), and prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating realm of Opaque—a restaurant that challenges perceptions while delivering incredibly crafted dishes. This is surely a top ten must-visit in the bustling food scene of Santa Monica. Step into the darkness, and let your taste buds take center stage!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ I had an amazing experience from start to finish. The host was waiting for us when we arrived and he was friendly and personable as he explained what to expect. Our meal was chosen for us and then we were led into the dark room by our lovely waiter. Finding our food was a little tough at first I stuck my finger in butter lol but once you adjust its smooth sailing. The food was excellent definitely worth every penny and the atmosphere plus the exceptional staff make this place a Top Ten Must Visit in my book! ”
“ This was truly a unique experience! Dining in complete darkness can be a daunting experience, and to do it without knowing what your server will be bring to the table... Pretty darn intimidating. But the hostess and our server was fantastic. Friendly, warm and open to discussion about what its like to be visually impaired. We loved every minute of it, not to mention the food was fabulous! ”
“ Cinno our waitress was amazing! Like all reviews, the food does not match the price. But its ok. I suggest having the first sitting. As more people came it changed the experience. Get to know your server....please! The stories are what makes this an experience! Just let go and learn how someone other than you is day to day. Dude note, dont go in as a large party and be loud. It takes away from the setting for everyone. No kids. Never! Have fun! ”
“ Went here for the Dining in the Dark experience in the back of Opaque. It was our second time and I am sure we will go again. Really amazing experience being served in complete darkness by legally blind servers. Food is really great as well. Definitely a hot spot to check out again and again! ”
“ I have gone twice, And be wise whom you take. Grown mature people only... This is an EXPERIENCE not just going to a restaurant to eat out. Definitely not 5 star food.. Yes the food is just ok.. nothing fancy, but its not bad. I absolutely enjoyed myself both times I went, Im planning on making another reservation this month for another daughters birthday. Its is very pricey but if your open minded and like and want to enjoy different experiences youll love this. Its worth the money... dont listen to them who say its not. They probably would rather spend there money on just baseball games and poker. ”
“ Its definitely an experience to try. They are not lying, the dining room is pitch black, you cant see anything! This was a bit unsettling at first and initially I felt quite anxious but I soon relaxed and grew more and more accustomed to the dark as the meal went on. Eating with silverware was not as difficult as I imagined either and I quickly got use to eating with a fork in the dark. I didnt poke my eye out and I didnt drop and food in my lap. I was worried that the food might not be that good and the place would be relying mostly on the gimmick of the darkness, but my girlfriend and I both had excellent meals. I would go back, but next time I want to go back and next time go in a big group. ”
“ This was such an amazing experience. The staff is so kind and patient. Food was fantastic, and not just because your senses are heightened, but actually delicious food. Only downside is that its not a true restaurant style, you might end up with one other couple in the same room with you and it can get a little awkward. ”
“ Such an amazing experience. You eat in complete darkness so if youre afraid of the dark this isnt for you. The hostess picks your meals for you which I actually enjoyed. ”