Ortolan, residing on L.A.’s West Third Street corridor, is the first venture for French Chef Christophe Emé who has worked in some of the most recognizable restaurants in the world. With the encouragement of his girlfriend, actress Jeri Ryan, Emé decided it was time to open his own restaurant. Designed by Kristopher Keith and his firm, Spacecraft, Ortolan has a decidedly modernized provincial feel. Casually elegant, the beautifully appointed dining room will serve Emé’s classically inspired French cuisine.Emé serves contemporary versions of French classics that include dishes such as crispy langoustines served with cauliflower puree and beef jus, as well as roast squab and leg confit with compte macaroni and tapenade salad. He comments “I hope to create a place that feels like home where people know they will get a great meal every night of the week, where jacket and tie are not required, but guests can enjoy haute cuisine in a casual setting.