The Los Angeles food scene is buzzing with fresh energy. Walk around town any day, and you’ll spot long lines for everything from bagels to flashy pastries. In the evenings, the vibe shifts to happy hours and earlier dinners, as people seek cozy spots to unwind.
A shining example of this trend is Max & Helen’s, a lively diner that opened in November. Co-owned by Phil Rosenthal and Nancy Silverton, it’s popular for its viral $17 waffle and $9.50 hot chocolate, drawing guests who sometimes wait up to eight hours!
Silverton attributes this popularity partly to Rosenthal’s charm and the growing desire for comfort food. “Phil has a huge following,” she explains. “When he walks around, people flock to him!”
Rosenthal is better known as the creator of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” but he’s also become a food ambassador through his Netflix series, “Somebody Feed Phil.” This is his first venture as a restaurant owner, and he built it in tribute to his parents. He wanted to revive the classic diner experience he cherished growing up.
The pandemic has shifted dining habits greatly. People now crave familiarity and nostalgia more than ever. Lunch crowds have thinned out as remote work has changed daily routines, while dinner times are getting earlier. “We used to open at 6, now it’s 5, and often we’re full by then,” notes Edoardo Baldi, who runs several successful restaurants and is launching a new Tuscan steakhouse in Beverly Hills.
This early dining trend aligns with a health-conscious lifestyle. “Eating earlier is better for digestion and sleep. Younger diners especially are prioritizing health,” Baldi says, emphasizing the shift in priorities.
The rising cost of living also challenges restaurants. Owners must rethink everything from menus to decor. Holly Fox, co-founder of Last Word Hospitality, explains how her team is now focusing on creating comfortable, inviting spaces. They’re adjusting seating and lighting to enhance the customer experience.
People are willing to wait in line for unique dining experiences, seeing it as an “affordable luxury.” Sitting with others as they wait can create a sense of community, making the entire process enjoyable.
Here are some notable restaurant openings this month:
Lielle
9575 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035
In Beverlywood, chef Marcus Jernmark debuts his first U.S. restaurant. His approach blends European sophistication with California familiarity. Highlighting seasonal produce, the menu features dishes like BBQ abalone and aged squab.
Baldi
9850 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Opening mid-February at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, chef Edo Baldi presents a Tuscan steakhouse. Offering a range of prime cuts grilled over olive wood, the restaurant can accommodate around 180 guests.
Lapaba
558 S Western Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90020
This Italian-Korean pasta bar opened on February 3. Run by McKenna Lelah and Matthew Kim, it merges diverse culinary influences, offering dishes that balance tradition with creative twists.
As dining continues to evolve in L.A., it’s clear that the love for nostalgic flavors paired with modern dining experiences is here to stay. For more insights on trends shaping the restaurant industry, you can check out this recent report from the National Restaurant Association.
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Food,Los Angeles,WWD Weekend,WWD Weekend Lifestyle
