A Culinary Guide to Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills needs no introduction. The small but swanky city in the greater Los Angeles area boasts one of the country’s most recognizable zip codes, with equally identifiable landmarks in Rodeo Drive and the Hollywood Sign — often visible from the 90210’s sleekest, chicest rooftop bars. 

Within this environment of grandeur and glitz, Beverly Hills has nurtured a culinary scene that leans into the city’s over-the-top, yet totally tailored, character. As one of Los Angeles’ most walkable areas, Beverly Hills therefore presents the perfect opportunity for a compact California getaway, where food — not just designer finds — shapes your stay. 

Below, you’ll find recommendations on where to eat, play, and sleep to make the most of your time in L.A.’s 5.7-square-mile city.

Dining Beverly Hills-Style

Beverly Hills’ food scene exceeds Erewhon and Alfred, though you’ll find these L.A. mainstays here, too — just as you will sushi. In keeping with Los Angeles trends, Beverly Hills houses all kinds of sushi restaurants at all kinds of prices. Among the best options, the 14-seat Sushi Note Omakase Beverly Hills hosts two nightly seatings for two hours each, presenting diners with 20 courses. You can either reserve a table or a seat at the bar, from which you can witness the chef expertly craft each dish — an experience that’s equal parts intimate, educational, and fun. Not to mention, Sushi Note Omakase accommodates an array of dietary restrictions and allergies, including shellfish, so everyone can enjoy the experience. 

For something less structured but no less delicious, Bacari on Brighton Way fuses Mediterranean influences into creative, shareable plates, resulting in a menu that doubles as a conversation starter. The restaurant’s standout dishes include the ricotta and beet gnocchi, which finishes handmade, chèvre-topped pasta with an herbaceous chimichurri. Pair it with the watermelon-anchored bacarita cocktail, lamb hummus, and whatever else sparks your appetite — and don’t forget about dessert; the malabi complements the nuttiness of pistachio with just the right amount of rosewater, while the bread pudding’s clover honey custard sweetens the deal.

Shopping With a Culinary Twist 

Beverly Hills’ shopping scene ranges far and wide, so you can scoop up designer apparel, vintage finds, and edible souvenirs alike. For the latter, don’t miss The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills: an aromatic treasure trove brimming with gourmet products, fresh pastas, and some 600 cheese options. If you’re looking to add more structure to your shopping, the city has also curated a multitude of self-guided tours, many of which keep the theme of cuisine. Some of these itineraries identify key film and television sites. For instance, you can visit Edelweiss Chocolates, which inspired I Love Lucy’s famous conveyor belt episode — while others center around desserts. Notable sweet spots include Chaumont Bakery and Cafe, Beverly Hills Cookies, and California gelateria Bacio di Latte. 

What to Do

Once you’re satiated, it’s time to play tourist. Beverly Hills may only span a few miles, but it packs plenty of action between Sunset Boulevard, Rodeo Drive, and the Greystone Mansion and Gardens. With or without a set agenda, you’ll stumble into enough attractions, shops, and sites to stay stimulated, but not too much so as to become overwhelmed. Need a starting place? Strike a pose in front of the iconic Beverly Hills sign in Beverly Gardens Park, then meander around the streets of the Golden Triangle. Come golden hour, grab a drink at the legendary and colorful The Beverly Hills Hotel: a hot spot for celebrity sightings. 

Where to Stay

With the Beverly Cañon Gardens as its backyard, The Maybourne Beverly Hills melds five-star elegance with California’s airy comforts. The property’s stylish, modern rooms create a relaxing and accessible home base for a weekend getaway, though the on-site spa, gym, and indoor and outdoor dining options coax guests well beyond their rooms. Start your day here at The Terrace, where you may dine al fresco on an acai bowl, seasonal fruits, or avocado toast; you’re in Los Angeles, after all. Come lunchtime to late night, head to the roof for an espresso martini — or, really, any version of a martini — at New York’s beloved cocktail bar and pizzeria, Dante.

It’s hard to up the ante for luxury in Beverly Hills, but the Waldorf Astoria outdoes even itself. Often cited among Los Angeles’ best hotels, the Waldorf pairs its spacious suites with a similarly comprehensive dining scene. On the weekends, savor an afternoon high tea in the lobby, then, on any sunny day, head to The Rooftop. From this 12th-floor perch, kick back with tuna tartare and a specialty margarita. Or, better yet, order your cocktail poolside. Guests can access the rooftop pool and hot tub to gaze at the city from the lounge chairs.

 

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