As Idaho starts growing rapidly, many businesses from around the country want to expand into the state. With this rapid increase of population, stores of all kinds, especially restaurants, want to grow their chain. Land Ocean is a California based restaurant that focuses on surf and turf cuisine, hence the name. This fine dining restaurant was started in 2010 by Mark and Karoline Platt in Folsom, California. They have grown their business to Roseville, CA, Reno, NV, and now they have arrived in Meridian, ID. You can find this modern steakhouse located on Eagle Road, near Trader Joes.

Land Ocean focuses on hand cut steaks and fresh seafood, with modern twists on the typical surf and turf menu. They serve a wide variety of flavors and creative meals for all palates, and also have a main focus on the bar, for handcrafted cocktails. When you walk into the restaurant, the bar instantaneously catches your eye with the glowing lights overhead and the colorful bottles lined against the wall.  

The meals served are absolutely divine. I have tried a few select dishes that range in variety and have been labelled as diner-favorites. The appetizers are simple but display elegant flavors and creativity. The Ahi Poke Tacos are an interesting take on two very different styles of food that are descended from very different cultures. These tacos consist of housemade crispy wontons acting as the shell, ahi tuna, and topped with mango, avocado, and peanut sauce. They are packed full with flavor and each ingredient blends perfectly. Another appetizer some may enjoy, are the Spicy Garlic Mussels. These mussels come in a delicious buttery garlic wine broth, with added serrano chilis, for a hint of spice. This appetizer also includes a grilled baguette to enjoy the leftover broth with.

Nothing on the Land Ocean menu is similar in any aspects, everything is incredibly different and unique, especially the Entrees. For example the Blackened Salmon is a party of flavors melded together for an aesthetically pieced dish. The salmon is cooked to perfection with many spices, and it is accompanied by cilantro rice, sauteed spinach, chipotle mango sauce, and pineapple salsa. The sweet and spicy, the salty and savory create a colorful and light meal for anytime of year. Another classic for Land Ocean is the Filet Mignon. 

Land Ocean is a bit pricey, but the portions and flavor speak for themselves. The food is prepared with top quality ingredients and never dissapoint. The staff is also very helpful, kind, and accommodating. Chef Frank Villa and Sous Chefs Kosta Pappas and Jason Kearns work hard to make each meal enjoyable along with their line cooks in the back of the house. While General Manager, Brandon Handly, helps support his team, while keeping the restaurant fresh and fun. Whether it is your birthday, a date night, or just to go out with your friends, Land Ocean is the place to be.