In between the hustle and bustle of the Third Street Promenade and the sunshine and breeze of the beach of Santa Monica lies The Independence, a new and trendy restaurant serving American cuisine and signature craft cocktails. The Independence is a refreshing addition to the area, where many of the mediocre restaurants cater towards tourists.
It’s no difficult task to eat gluten free at The Independence, as the menu is chock-full of delicious options that can be modified to fit any diet. To start, the Shaved Salad with fennel, endive, almonds, pear, manchego, pancetta, and lime vinaigrette is light and flavorful. The Kale Chopped Salad is also a diner favorite, served with iceberg, smoked egg, baby carrots, green beans, feta, candied walnuts, citrus, pear, and lemon mustard vinaigrette. A NOBREAD favorite is the purple & white cauliflower, with romanesco, Thai chili, preserved lemon, puffed rice, and anchovy. This vegetable dish is full of interesting flavors and textures, including a crunch from the puffed rice. For dinner the Roast Chicken Leg Confit with guanciale, broccoli di ciccio, and beluga lentils is both moist and mouth watering, and for the hungriest of diners we recommend the spicy Rack of Lamb with Thai red curry rub, smoked eggplant puree, and coconut. The Independence serves one gluten free dessert: a rose-water panna cotta. With fresh berries and a meringue crunch, the panna cotta is the perfect ending to a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Independence has amazing service and even more amazing food, making it a welcome addition to the promenade area. The restaurant also features a discounted happy hour menu with both small plates and drinks, so it’s the perfect drop in location if you are coming from a long day of shopping or the beach! With a unique spin on classic and comforting American dishes, the NOBREAD approved restaurant is definitely worth a visit!