Chef Jeffrey Weiss and
Proprieter Thamin Saleh
arly visitors didn't quite know what to make of this newbie in the heart of America's Last
Hometown, with its outspoken chef Jeffrey Weiss, a former world-class ice skater who reinvented
himself after roaming the epic food regions of Spain.Restaurant owner Thamin Saleh, a sommelier, wine-
maker and hospitality veteran, turned Weiss loose with his fearless, avant-garde approach. One of the first
orders of business was to create a glossary of terms for the menu so diners could keep up to speed on
Weiss' head-snapping tour through the Mediterranean (for example, urfa is a smoky Turkish pepper).
From his bullfighter's steak (add charred broccoli with anchovy vinaigrette) to his crispy octopus with
Calabrian chile and lemon mermelada, Weiss brings bold flavors to exotic ingredients, but somehow makes
it accessible and fun—and always delicious.
Saleh is a master at the front of the house, and spikes the wine list with interesting, hard-to-find labels,
many of them sold by the glass. Together, this dynamic team has injected life into the often-staid dining
scene in Pacific Grove.
—Larry Harland
E
Photos:
Kelli
Uldall
250 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R / F A L L 2 0 1 4
good
taste
Jeninni Kitchen
+ Wine Bar
542 Lighthouse Ave.
Pacific Grove • 831/920-2662
www.jeninni.com
Summer Tomato Salad
With labne and fresh za'atar
Melon Salad
With halloumi,
chicharones and zhug
