"Cuisine of the Sun"
welcome
ZOZO at Maison Midi invites guests to witness John Sedlar’s culinary artistry in an open kitchen, called the Atelier, where he plates his “Cuisine of the Sun” dishes. Inspired by the globe’s equatorial countries, ZOZO’s kitchen celebrates flavors of spice, sweetness, sourness, and herbaceous combinations. From appetizers to desserts, the menu offers surprising high desert inspirations, featuring chilis, spices, tropical fruits, high desert herbs, and acidulated flavors to keep guests’ tastes at peak interest. Coexisting with Maison Midi, ZOZO presents an elegant tablescape with interesting glasses, utensils, and china, creating a celebration of the table. The dining experience at ZOZO reflects the diverse food choices for which Los Angeles is renowned.
Story
The “Cuisine of the Sun” menu at ZOZO embraces the culinary richness of equatorial countries, highlighting Sedlar’s love for spices, sweet and sour flavors, and herbaceous combinations. The high desert influences extend from appetizers to desserts, with chilis, spices, tropical fruits, herbs, and acidulated fruits adding layers of flavor complexity.
ZOZO not only offers a culinary journey but also a sensory experience inside a retail store with Maison Midi’s elegant tablescape. Located on La Brea Avenue, ZOZO collaborates with American Rag’s home decor store, Maison Midi, providing an opportunity for equatorial dining amidst beautifully adorned walls. The unique concept is complemented by curated cocktails from Heidi Wittekind, a wine program by Jordan Ogron, and an opportunity for homeware shopping during and after retail hours. ZOZO goes beyond being merely a dining destination, striving to offer a comprehensive experience. ZOZO weaves a memorable visual story into the fabric of Los Angeles through its culinary journey. Renowned as the Father of Modern Southwest Cuisine, John Sedlar has left an indelible mark on the culinary scene, from the opening of his restaurant Saint Estephe in Manhattan Beach to establishments like Bikini and Abique in Santa Monica, and his collaboration with restaurateur Bill Chait (Bestia, Republique, Otium, Redbird,Tesse and Tartine).
Culinary
Sedlar’s first menu at ZOZO is called Convivium and it celebrates the French Influence of Jean Bertranou, the Mexican influence of Chef Patricia Quintana, and the “Convivial French cuisine” of Raphael Francois. John Sedlar introduces his favorite offerings and ingredients from the Santa Fe Table, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The kitchen at ZOZO is infused with the aromas of classic French stocks and broths, featuring standout dishes like herbaceous naan bread from Israel, turkey kebabs with Middle Eastern influences, and popular tortillas florales representing Mexico. The charcoal wood oven from Spain enhances the flavors of meats and fish, cooked with citrus and chili marinades. Desserts, such as mole ice cream with xocolata, offer a delightful conclusion, adorned with sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, nuts, rosemary, and sage, and topped with chiles suaves.