When people think of Beverly Hills restaurants, the concept evokes the pinnacle of the fine dining experience: fantastic food, polished service and luxurious décor. These five hotel restaurants in Beverly Hills are a quintessential part of the Los Angeles experience. From a world-class steakhouse to culinary chemistry, get a taste of some of the most epicurean indulgences in the city.
The Bazaar by José Andrés at SLS Hotel
The Bazaar took the city by storm when it opened in 2008, and still continues to be a bucket-list destination for many Angelenos. Not only is the food otherworldly, the décor is, too, thanks to the work of celebrated designer Philippe Starck. A series of bold, distinct dining areas gives the overall feel of mini-restaurants within a restaurant, from the whimsical Patisserie to ultra-modern Bar Centro. The menu itself also has a split personality—part traditional Spanish tapas, such as jamón Ibérico, and the other half molecular gastronomy, as in the infamous liquefied olives.
465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.246.5555
www.thebazaar.com/beverly-hills
CUT at Beverly Wilshire
When Wolfgang Puck opened CUT, he upended people’s stereotypes of a typical steakhouse. Almost the polar opposite of a gentleman’s study, the décor here is white, bright and airy—though the food is not only superb, but every bit as macho as a meat-ery should be. Before delving into the main courses, however, consider some noteworthy appetizers like bone marrow flan or a Dungeness crab and shrimp “Louis” cocktail. And now that the ban on Japanese Wagyu has been lifted, this is certainly a worthy spot to sample it. Just ask regulars like Bruce Willis.
9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.276.8500
www.wolfgangpuck.com/restaurants/fine-dining/3789
LIVELLO at L’Ermitage Beverly Hills
Located inside the boutique-style L’Ermitage hotel, LIVELLO is a mix of modest elegance and more casual al fresco dining. Inside, large windows provide ample natural lighting, while a unique floral centerpiece anchors the dining room under the ceiling’s trademark gold dome. On the wrap-around patio, lush landscaping is accented by both water and fire features. Tables are nicely spaced throughout for guest comfort. Chef Benjamin Dayag, who previously worked under the legendary Nobu Matsuhisa, proffers an imaginative menu with both Asian and Italian influences. Dishes include fennel and scallop crudo in a yuzu-orange vinaigrette and lamb chops with couscous and chickpeas.
9291 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, 310.385.5302
www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/beverlyhills/dining_and_nightlife/livello
Polo Lounge at Beverly Hills Hotel
The Polo Lounge is one of the most iconic restaurants in the City of Beverly Hills, and is so named because of its one-time popularity with polo players. The crowds these days are more likely to include ladies who lunch, as well as industry execs and the celebrities they woo, making it the ultimate afternoon power-dining spot. The menu features many healthy salads, plus heavier fare like gourmet burgers and steak frites. The martinis are legendary, as is the service, and the live piano music adds to the panache.
9641 Sunset Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.887.2777
www.beverlyhillshotel.com/the-polo-lounge
Scarpetta at Montage Beverly Hills
LA has no shortage of high-end Italian restaurants, but it was still big news when it was announced that chef/owner Scott Conant planned to open a branch of Scarpetta, his successful New York flagship restaurant, in the heart of Beverly Hills. Indeed, the elegant dining room is an ideal setting for modern interpretations of Italian classics, such as Conant’s deceptively simple-sounding signature dish of spaghetti with tomato and basil. Additionally, there are other items suited to more adventurous palates, such as raw yellowtail with pickled onions, and dishes that rotate with the seasons.
225 N. Canon Dr., Beverly Hills, 310.860.7970
www.montagebeverlyhills.com/beverly-hills-restaurants.php