For Design Lovers, Here’s Where to Dine in LA

LA is known for the food, but the aesthetic is just as (or more) important

I remember growing up the 90s and my parents frequently getting dressed up to go to a fancy LA restaurant (usual suspects were Mr. Chow, Giorgio Baldi or Spago), my mom with her iconic original Lady Dior bag from the first 1995 collection. History repeats itself as I now frequent many of those same historic spots with my mom’s (now vintage) Lady Dior and other bags she has managed to keep in pristine condition. Well, her and the best cobbler in LA, Arturo’s.

Dining in LA is in large part about the food, but an arguably larger part is the aesthetic. This is a city where people like to see and be seen. And the expectations are high for an establishment to have a wow factor, as restaurants keep outdoing themselves year after year.

The wow factor that Angelinos have historically looked for is in the decor and the vibe. It’s really a full sensory affair. A beautiful or unique setting, impeccable lighting, layers of texture, fresh flowers or the perfect table-to-candle-height ratio. For the aesthetically inclined, those who collect art and coffee table books like others collect shoes, LA offers a variety of restaurants where the interiors are as crave-worthy as the cuisine. Because both are equally important if you are dining in this town. So where do the designers, tastemakers, moodboarders, and the dinner party obsessive eat? Here is my personal list of 5 restaurants. Others may have their opinion, but if I’m leaving my house to eat and I want to soak in the space around me or be around other people inspired by art and design, here is where I’m going.

Stella Image Source

1. Stella – 1950s Italy in Weho

Housed inside the impossibly chic 8899 Beverly building in West Hollywood. The space formerly used to be Madeo’s, where my friends and I would go to splurge on a mafia-esq Italian meal in the downstairs cellar over 10 years ago. Madeo has since moved, making room for Stella, where Italy meets Weho cool.

The restaurant is designed by Wendy Haworth, who has won multiple awards for the design of this gorgeous space. The interiors are sumptuous, merging vintage Italian 1950s decor with a modern twist. Vintage-inspired furniture, stone, leather, wood, gold enhancements and mood lighting makes everyone look camera ready (seriously, I’ve taken some of my best photos here). It’s quiet luxury without the arrogance. The vibe? Milan Fashion Week, but someone brought loads of handmade pasta. Come for the Carpaccio di Branzino (possibly my favorite dish in all of LA), stay to mentally redecorate your home. I am guilty of ALWAYS taking photos of the decor and table settings here, because each time I go, I find something new and spectacular in this classic space. The art is amazing, the bar is a vibe, and it’s a top pick for me regarding aesthetic in this city. I still always ask for a table in the downstairs cellar…from Madeo to Stella, it’s where the ultimate vibe is.

Mr. Chow Image Source

2. Mr. Chow – The Original Art Star

The icon of all LA dining. Before dining rooms became design statements, Mr. Chow had already mastered the art of ambience. Since 1974, its Beverly Hills location has served up peking duck, table side champagne cart service, and modern art perfectly harmoniously. Designed by founder Michael Chow, an artist with a collector’s eye, the space is equal parts gallery, performance, and cultural landmark. It’s the only place you’ll see a Lichtenstein while your noodles are hand-pulled tableside by a chef in formalwear. There is no other restaurant in all of LA with this kind of service, from the white gloves and tuxedos to the perfectly timed check ins on drinks and food, and the familiar faces because everyone who works there has been there for literally decades. They are all a true master of their craft, the best of the best, and make you feel like it’s your dining room. Always iconic, never try-hard. This Substack’s name is inspired by Michael Chow’s famous words, “Chic of chic.” If you love art, timeless design, outstanding food, service and a room filled with people who have good taste, this is it.

Georgian Room Image Source

3. Georgian Room – An Art Deco Dream

I love well-preserved art deco spots in LA, because it is a reminder of the thriving history of this incredible city. Tucked inside The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica, Georgian Room is a special jewel in LA, right on historic Ocean Ave. Rumor has it that long ago before it closed for a few decades, the restaurant was a Rat Pack haunt.

The restaurant reopened in 2023. An evening here is an entire experience and a major throwback to 1920s Los Angeles, with art deco decor dripping from every corner. The rich red walls, plush leather booths and brass fixtures everywhere will make you want to dress your best (cocktail attire is recommended). The live jazz music is truly a treat and makes the whole experience feel like a bygone era in LA’s history. If you like to