One of the best meals I have enjoyed in ages, Ammo serves up food that absolutely hits the spot. A perfect place for out of town visitors, like discerning parents who pick up the check, Ammo’s cozy yet modern environment of sleek banquettes and warm lighting provides the perfect backdrop for a night out.

The food at Ammo bursts with fresh, seasonal flavors – the kitchen perfecting the balance in its dishes between originality and familiarity.

I particularly liked the San Daniele Prosciutto and Burrata appetizer with arugula-pistachio pesto and fresh figs. The burrata may very well be the freshest mozzarella I have eaten this side of Naples – a unique flavor that makes the cheese taste like a different animal than the mozzarella you find in a grocery store.

Also delicious, Ammos’s Baby Beet Salad with chunks of hearty Niman Ranch bacon, fromage blanc and frisée blends disparate tastes both tender and salty.

The entrees, equally adventurous and appealing, provide something for everyone with vegan, vegetarian and meat eater options.

The juicy and succulent Sautéed Sea Scallops stood in bas-relief served atop a bed of red radish, tomatillo and shaved fennel slaw – the sharpness of the vegetables highlighting the buttery quality of the mollusks. Another yummy main course, a Pan Seared Monkfish, came with an unusual and surprising curried eggplant ragu.

The seasonal ingredients continue into dessert with the striking inclusion of a heavenly Roasted Pumpkin Clafouti – a moist and not too sweet way to punctuate an excellent meal.

Ammo’s largesse extends into lunch and brunch with the usual suspects, as well as welcome surprises like Omelette with duck confit. The restaurant’s bar, along with a charming wine list, serves cocktails to compliment their cuisine, which include Elderflower Mimosas and Lemongrass Martinis.

Ammo fires up food for the soul.

For more information, call (323) 871-2666 or visit ammocafe.com.