In the pulsating heart of Southern California, where culinary brilliance shines brightest, West Hollywood stands tall as a beacon of gastronomic innovation. It’s a realm where chic dining experiences and trendsetting cuisine converge, creating an unparalleled adventure for the taste buds.
This iconic enclave, celebrated for setting culinary trends, has recently ushered in a new era of dining excellence. Today, we embark on an epicurean voyage, exploring the hottest and most delectable establishments that have recently made their mark on West Hollywood’s dining tapestry.
Irv’s Burgers: A Historic Comeback
Irv’s Burgers
Opened March 2023 | Visit Website
[7998 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood]
Seventy-six years and still sizzling, Irv’s Burgers returns to West Hollywood, solidifying its status as a historic and beloved institution. Initially established in 1946 and a vibrant part of Route 66’s storied past, Irv’s new home is just a stone’s throw from its original location. Under the expert guidance of Armen Piskoulian, the new Culinary Director from Oui Melrose, Irv’s continues to delight with its signature double cheeseburgers and pastrami sandwiches while introducing an array of exciting, all-American items to its menu.
Drake’s Hollywood: A Nod to the Glitz and Glamour
Opened May 2023 | Visit Website
[Located on Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood]
Nestled amidst West Hollywood’s renowned establishments like Catch LA and Craig’s, Drake’s Hollywood emerges as a lively and glamorous dining haven. Beyond its thick red leather door lies a world steeped in nostalgia, with rich leather booths, a fully stocked bar, and an art collection inspired by vintage Hollywood. The menu presents American classics reimagined with a touch of luxury, featuring highlights such as truffled filet mignon cracker-crust pizza and an impressive selection of seafood and steaks. And, of course, no visit to Drake’s is complete without experiencing their trademark “World’s Coldest Martinis,” a testament to their commitment to perfection.
Casa Madera: Coastal Elegance and Culinary Artistry
Opened January 2023 | Visit Website
A warm, inviting ambience greets you at Casa Madera, transporting you to a place where time seems to stand still and every meal is a celebration. Drawing inspiration from coastal habitats, from the Mayan Riviera to the Mediterranean, Casa Madera serves as a culinary canvas showcasing the rich traditions of Mexican coastal cuisine, refined by French technique and Japanese precision.
Tail o’ The Pup: A Nostalgic Feast for the Senses
Opened July 2022 | Visit Website
[8512 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood]
In a delightful nod to the past, the iconic Tail o’ The Pup hotdog stand makes its long-awaited return to West Hollywood. With its eye-catching hotdog-shaped structure, this legendary establishment has been a Hollywood staple since 1946, attracting celebrities, tourists, and locals alike. Thanks to the dedication of the 1933 Group, Tail o’ The Pup stands today as a vibrant testament to Los Angeles’ rich history and cultural heritage.
Lavo Ristorante: A Coastal Italian Culinary Odyssey
Opened March 2022 | Visit Website
Immerse yourself in the flavours of coastal Italy at Lavo Ristorante, the latest venture from the renowned Tao Group Hospitality. With sister establishments in New York City, Las Vegas, and Singapore, Lavo Ristorante brings its signature Italian flair to the Sunset Strip, offering an array of exquisite dishes ranging from red-prawn crudo to veal Marsala, and from fresh pasta to a lavish 1-pound meatball.
Something About Her: A Feminine Touch to the Sandwich World
Forthcoming, near completion | Follow on Instagram
Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney of Vanderpump Rules fame are set to bring their culinary vision to life with Something About Her, a sandwich shop that promises a cozy, inviting, and undeniably delicious experience. Proudly proclaiming itself as “unapologetically feminine,” Something About Her is poised to become a new staple in West Hollywood’s vibrant dining scene.
Stella: A Star is Born in West Hollywood
Forthcoming in December 2023 | Visit Website
[8899 Condos, West Hollywood]
Stella is more than just a restaurant; it is an artistic endeavour that blends the culinary traditions of Italy with the freshness of Californian ingredients. Under the creative direction of restaurateur Janet Zuccarini and Executive Chef Rob Gentile, Stella invites diners to experience the warmth and passion of Italian cooking reimagined for a new generation of gourmands.
Uchi: A Fusion Fantasy from Austin to West Hollywood
Forthcoming, end of 2023 | Visit Website
Bringing Austin’s culinary brilliance to West Hollywood, Uchi prepares to open its doors at the end of 2023, promising a playful and sophisticated take on Japanese cuisine. With a menu that elegantly weaves through Japanese-inspired small plates, sushi, sashimi, and a variety of omakase options, Uchi is set to become a new favourite for Los Angeles foodies.
Z Pizza: A New Chapter in Artisanal Pizza
The new location opened September 2023 | Visit Website
[Located in the LGBT Rainbow District, West Hollywood]
After 24 years, Zpizza has turned a new leaf, relocating to the vibrant LGBT Rainbow District in West Hollywood. Renowned for its artisan-inspired pizzas, Zpizza continues to captivate the palates of pizza aficionados with its commitment to quality ingredients, including award-winning skim mozzarella, certified organic tomato sauce, and a selection of additive-free toppings.
LAN Noodle: Authentic Lanzhou Flavors in the Heart of Weho
Opened September 2023 | Visit Website
[Located near the Pacific Design Center, West Hollywood]
LAN Noodle introduces West Hollywood to the authentic flavours of Lanzhou, China, with its hand-pulled noodles and rich, flavorful broths. A culinary gem in the heart of Weho, LAN Noodle serves as a delicious reminder of the diversity and depth of Chinese cuisine.
West Hollywood continues redefining the culinary landscape, bringing forth a tapestry of flavours and experiences that celebrate this vibrant community’s diversity, history, and innovation. Whether you’re a food aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the art of fine dining, West Hollywood’s latest dining establishments are ready to take you on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Indulge, savour, and discover the flavours reshaping the culinary world, one dish at a time.
Written by: Matthew Thomas
