Restaurant review: Gavin Kaysen's Mara is worth the wait

• I started with the rose and jasmine-flavored “Arpege” cocktail ($15) and ordered the creamy, yogurt-based labneh dip ($14) as an appetizer.
• I chose the lamb shank ($34) for my main, and finished with an olive oil cake ($13) for dessert.

My thoughts: My first impression of the space was “luxe night out,” and the service and food definitely delivered.

• Almost everything was unique and delicious — I’ve never tried anything like the olive oil cake, a citrusy delight topped with a labneh sorbet.
• The lamb shank was enormous, but a little under seasoned. I preferred my dining partner’s spiced pomegranate chicken ($32).

Yes, and: The cocktails, created by former Colita beverage director Adam Witherspoon, were the highlight of the meal. I went back to the attached bar for more.

• The gin-based madHAUS ($15), topped with sugar-encased flowers, was my favorite.

• If you're looking for a nonalcoholic option, I recommend the "Duplex" NA cocktail ($10) : a light and sweet drink with aromatic bitters and 3Leche’s “vermouth.”

Overall: If you can get in, Mara is worth the wait and price tag. The decor, service and beverage pairings took the restaurant from “nice date night” to “high-end special occasion.”

• Dinner reservations are booked through August, but the bar and breakfast service are open for walk-ins.