Eat Organic. Believe in Sustainable. Buy local. Eat fresh.

This is the mantra of the new Paul Martin American Bistro opening on February 28th, 2009 in El Segundo, CA. Started by Paul Fleming ( of Fleming’s, Ruth Chris and P.F. Chang fame) and longtime restaurant partner Brian Bennett. This new addition to the family strives to balance fresh, organic foods with a comfortable, cozy atmosphere.

The menu, which took Brian and Paul over a year handpicking the sources, feature 80% from local Northern California producers. Each source is natural, organic and several are independently owned. Most dishes are moderately priced, from $10-$22. The pre-opening featured the full menu and the extravagant wine and cocktail list. For the appetizer we tried the smoked salmon lettuce cups, which was light, smooth and crisp. Topped with apple slices and coming with a delicious cream sauce. Main courses included the New York French dip, and was served on a thick, freshly baked roll brushed with garlic butter and thinly sliced meat that melted in your mouth. We also tried the St. Louis style pork ribs, which came artfully stacked like towering dominos on your plate, next to a massive pile of apple slaw and a barbecue dipping sauce. With hardly any room left for desert, we opted for the homemade ice cream. Three scoops include vanilla, chocolate and pistachio with the best ever shortbread cookies.

Styled with a beautiful, sophisticated interior, the restaurant features dark woods, exposed brick, soft lighting and polished concrete floors. The airy and spacious floor plan is great for dinner, a business lunch or meeting friends for impromptu drinks at the bar. Whatever your need may be, The new bistro is guaranteed to satisfy. For more info: Paul Martin American Bistro, 2361 Rosecrans Ave., El Segundo, CA 90245 310.643.9300 www.PaulMartinAmericanBistro.com