Set in an ocean-side neighborhood, Bar Monette invites guests into a space that feels as thoughtful as its menu. With breezy views of Santa Monica’s palm-lined streets, a patio space lends itself to al fresco dining. Inside, the vibey ambiance exudes casual elegance with a mid-century twist, personally designed by MacDonald.
Forest-green walls, oxidized copper accents, and rich dark wood finishes are punctuated by colorful framed artwork and boutique ceramics, evoking the warmth of an intimate house party. Polished Caesarstone quartz surfaces and soft lighting enhance the modern yet inviting aesthetic, making it a destination as much for the atmosphere as for the food.
Bar Monette’s menu of Mediterranean-inspired small plates and wood-fired pizzas, embodies MacDonald’s culinary philosophy of precision, simplicity, and artistry. Classic dishes are reimagined with a Monette twist, such as the margherita pizza elevated with luxurious toppings like caviar and truffle. Each pizza is individually portioned with an extra-thick puffy crust, perfect for dipping into flavorful ‘sugos’ offered as optional sides, adding a playful and indulgent touch to the dining experience. Hailed as one of Canada’s most innovative young chefs, MacDonald has built a career on precision and creativity. Growing up in Calgary, he honed his skills at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology’s Professional Cooking Program.
He quickly gained significant recognition, winning the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy competition for Canada in 2016. Before opening Bar Monette, MacDonald helmed critically acclaimed ventures like ēst in Toronto, where he was celebrated for his innovative tasting menus.MacDonald approaches cooking as artistic expression, often likening his plating style to clean, minimalist design. By focusing on three core elements in each dish, he creates a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. His ability to reimagine culinary traditions through a global lens has earned him widespread recognition. Bar Monette has already drawn attention for its bold menu and thoughtful design, and MacDonald’s reputation continues to grow in LA.
In Canada, he was named one of The Art ofPlating’s 16 Rising Talents for North America and was the only Canadian featured on The Best ChefAwards list in 2018, ranking #221 globally. Beyond Bar Monette, MacDonald’s influence extends next door to Burgette, his elevated burger bar that redefines casual dining. The wagyu smash burger, paired with rich housemade sauces, is a testament to his ability to transform comfort food into a gourmet experience.
With Bar Monette, MacDonald has crafted a culinary haven that celebrates innovation and artistry, introducing LA diners to a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired perspective. The restaurant’s growing acclaim and MacDonald’senergy and vision look set to ignite the restaurant scene even further
