A city where history meets the cutting edge, Los Angeles where glamour intertwines with innovation, is about to witness the next chapter in one of its most iconic establishments. Hotel Bel-Air, an enclave of rarified exclusivity since 1946, has long been a sanctuary for those who seek the finer things in life. Now, with the unveiling of The Living Room and The Patisserie, the hotel is set to redefine culinary luxury in the heart of this storied city.
Imagine crossing the iconic Swan Lake bridge at dawn. The air is thick with the scent of freshly baked pastries, drawing you toward The Patisserie—a newly opened jewel nestled within a serene outdoor courtyard. This is no ordinary bakery; it’s a portal to a world where the elegance of a European boulangerie meets the laid-back sophistication of California. Here, under the expert hand of Executive Pastry Chef Christophe Rull, every croissant, every tart, every delicate puff of pastry is a work of art. The yellow-tiled display cabinets catch the first rays of the morning sun, illuminating a spread that could only be described as irresistible: tahitian vanilla chantilly cream puffs, salted caramel tarts, and artisanal breads that are as satisfying to look at as they are to eat. The Patisserie is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a place to savor, to indulge, to start your day with a touch of luxury that feels both timeless and new.
The Living Room and The Patisserie: A Fresh Culinary Chapter at Hotel Bel-Air
As the sun climbs higher, The Living Room begins to come alive, innspired by the lush, verdant surroundings, Champalimaud Design has crafted a haven where nature and elegance converge. The bespoke wallcovering—a vibrant tapestry of hummingbirds, jasmine, and citrus blossoms—sets the tone for an experience that is as immersive as it is indulgent. The iconic fireplace, glowing warmly at the heart of the room, invites guests to unwind in a setting that feels both intimate and expansive.
Under the guidance of Culinary Director Joe Garcia, the menu is a revelation. Picture this: a vidalia onion dip that takes a humble American classic and elevates it to new heights with caramelized onions, crème fraîche, and a sprinkle of caviar. Or perhaps a liberty farms duck confit gateau, where the richness of the duck is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of harry’s berries strawberries and the crunch of sicilian pistachios. The australian winter truffle grilled cheese sandwich? It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps around your soul. And then, of course, there’s the caviar menu—a decadent selection that pairs perfectly with the inspired cocktails curated by Food and Beverage Director Micah Paloff. Don’t miss the ‘coldest martini in town,’ prepared tableside with an interactive flourish.
But this is just the beginning. The Living Room and The Patisserie complement Hotel Bel-Air’s already stellar dining lineup, including The Restaurant, where Garcia and Executive Sous Chef Gel Zara bring a modern twist to California cuisine, infusing it with Mediterranean influences that highlight the peak-season ingredients of the region. It’s a symphony of flavors that resonates with the ethos of Southern California—bold and fresh.
“The launch of The Living Room and The Patisserie is a testament to our dedication to creating diverse and exceptional dining experiences throughout the property,” says Christoph Moje, General Manager of Hotel Bel-Air. And he’s right. These new culinary spaces are more than just additions to the hotel—they are destined to become beloved destinations in their own right, places where both guests and locals can come together to connect, unwind, and indulge in the very best that Los Angeles has to offer.
So, whether you’re starting your day with a pastry that’s almost too beautiful to eat, or ending it with a cocktail that’s as sophisticated as it is satisfying, Hotel Bel-Air’s newest offerings promise an experience that’s as luxurious as it is authentic.
For reservations, please visit sevenrooms.com
The Living Room is open for service Wednesday through Sunday from 2pm to 9pm. Afternoon Tea is served Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with a seating at 3pm.
The Patisserie is open daily from 7am to 12pm.
Address: 701 Stone Canyon Road, Los Angeles
Photo credits: Courtesy of Mark Read Photography
