Beverly Hills Brunch: Discover 9 Chic Spots
Discover 9 Chic Brunch Spots in Beverly Hills: The Ultimate Guide
As a self-proclaimed brunch enthusiast, I’ve spent countless weekends exploring the culinary delights of Beverly Hills in Los Angeles. Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like sipping a mimosa on a sun-drenched patio while rubbing elbows with the who’s who of Hollywood. But finding the perfect Beverly Hills breakfast spot can be as challenging as navigating Rodeo Drive during a sale. Fear not, fellow foodies! I’ve done the legwork (and the taste testing) to bring you the crème de la crème of Beverly Hills brunch spots.
In this guide, we’ll dive into:
- Why Beverly Hills is the ultimate brunch destination
- Iconic locations that define luxury dining
- Trendy spots that are redefining the brunch scene
- Hidden gems that locals swear by
So, grab your designer sunglasses and let’s embark on a mouthwatering journey through the most chic brunch spots in Beverly Hills!
Beverly Hills as a Luxury Brunch Destination
Beverly Hills isn’t just a zip code; it’s a lifestyle. And brunch? Well, that’s not just a meal here – it’s an event. I’ve lived in Los Angeles for over a decade, and I can confidently say that no other Beverly Hills neighborhood does brunch quite like this one.
The moment you step into any of these establishments, you’re transported into a world of opulence. From the meticulously crafted cocktails to the impeccably plated dishes, everything screams luxury. It’s no wonder that celebrities and food critics alike flock to these spots every weekend.
I remember my first Beverly Hills brunch experience. I was fresh out of college, barely able to afford my rent, but I saved up for weeks to try the famous McCarthy Salad at the Polo Lounge. As I sat there, surrounded by the who’s who of Hollywood, I realized that brunch in Beverly Hills isn’t just about the food – it’s about the experience, the ambiance, and yes, a little bit of showing off.
The Evolution of Brunch Culture in Beverly Hills
The brunch scene in Beverly Hills has undergone a fascinating evolution over the years. In the 1920s and 1930s, when Beverly Hills was just beginning to establish itself as a luxury destination, brunch was a formal affair reserved for the elite. Restaurants like the Brown Derby and Romanoff’s set the standard for elegant dining.
As we moved into the 1950s and 1960s, the concept of brunch began to evolve. The rise of celebrity culture in Hollywood had a significant impact on dining trends. Suddenly, brunch became not just a meal, but a see-and-be-seen event. Restaurants like Chasen’s and Perino’s became hotspots for stars to gather on Sunday mornings.
The 1970s and 1980s saw a shift towards more casual dining experiences, even in upscale Beverly Hills. This era saw the rise of health-conscious California cuisine, which heavily influenced brunch menus. Dishes like avocado toast and egg white frittatas began to appear alongside more traditional fare.
Today, Beverly Hills brunch culture is a unique blend of old-world glamour and modern culinary innovation. You can still find classic dishes and white-glove service at iconic establishments, but there’s also a new wave of trendy spots offering creative twists on brunch favorites.
The Impact of Celebrity Culture on Beverly Hills Brunch Scene
Celebrity culture has always been intertwined with the Beverly Hills dining scene, and brunch is no exception. In fact, according to a study by the Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau, over 60% of visitors to Beverly Hills hope to spot a celebrity during their stay, with restaurants being the most likely places for star sightings.
This celebrity factor has a significant impact on the brunch scene:
- Menu Innovation: Celebrities often have specific dietary requirements or preferences, which has led to more diverse and health-conscious menu options. For example, The Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel introduced a vegan menu in response to demand from health-conscious celebrities.
- Atmosphere and Design: Many brunch spots in Beverly Hills are designed with privacy in mind, featuring secluded booths or private dining areas to accommodate high-profile guests. The Ivy, for instance, is known for its strategic seating arrangements that allow celebrities to dine without being overly exposed to paparazzi.
- Pricing: The presence of celebrities and the associated exclusivity often justifies higher prices. A brunch at a top Beverly Hills restaurant can easily cost $100 or more per person.
- Social Media Influence: When a celebrity posts about their brunch experience on social media, it can lead to a surge in popularity for that restaurant. For example, when Kim Kardashian shared a photo of her brunch at The Beverly Hills Hotel on Instagram, the post received over 2 million likes and led to a noticeable increase in bookings.
- Trend Setting: Celebrities often set food trends. When a star is repeatedly seen enjoying a particular dish or dining at a specific restaurant, it can spark a trend among their fans and the general public.
Iconic Brunch Locations
The Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel
The Polo Lounge, nestled within the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, is perhaps the most legendary brunch spot in the area. Since its opening in 1941, it has been a favorite haunt of Hollywood elite, from Marilyn Monroe to modern-day stars like Taylor Swift.
As I stepped into the Polo Lounge for my first Sunday brunch, I was immediately struck by the timeless elegance of the space. The famous green and white striped ceiling, the lush tropical plants, and the soft tinkling of piano music in the background all contribute to an atmosphere of old Hollywood glamour.
The brunch menu at the Polo Lounge is a perfect blend of classic favorites and innovative new dishes. Their famous McCarthy Salad, named after polo player Neil McCarthy who frequented the restaurant in the 1940s, is a must-try. It’s a chopped salad featuring chicken, egg, beets, cheddar cheese, bacon, and avocado, all tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette.
But the real star of the brunch menu, in my opinion, is the Lobster Rolls Royce. This dish features succulent chunks of lobster served on a toasted brioche roll with a side of crispy fries. It’s decadent, it’s delicious, and it’s everything you’d expect from a Beverly Hills brunch.
The Polo Lounge also offers a fantastic selection of brunch cocktails. Their Bloody Mary, garnished with celery, olives, and a lemon wedge, is perfectly spiced and a great way to start your Sunday. For those with a sweet tooth, the Bellini, made with fresh white peach puree and prosecco, is a refreshing choice.
One of the things that sets the Polo Lounge apart is its commitment to excellent service. The staff are attentive without being intrusive, and they have an uncanny ability to anticipate your needs before you even realize them yourself. It’s this level of service that has kept the Polo Lounge at the top of Beverly Hills’ brunch scene for decades.
According to The Beverly Hills Hotel’s official website, the Sunday brunch at the Polo Lounge includes a cocktail and three courses for $105 per person. While this might seem steep, the quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the chance to dine in such an iconic location make it worth every penny.
“The Polo Lounge isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a piece of Hollywood history. Dining here is like stepping back in time to the golden age of cinema. “- LA Times food critic
Crustacean
Crustacean is where East meets West in the most delicious way possible. This upscale Vietnamese restaurant has been a Beverly Hills staple for years, but their brunch offering is relatively new – and boy, is it a game-changer.
The first time I walked into Crustacean for brunch, I was struck by the elegant interior. The koi pond under the glass floor adds a touch of tranquility to the bustling atmosphere. But it’s Chef Helene An’s innovative cuisine that steals the show.
Their AN Sum Brunch menu is a culinary adventure. The Cacio e Pepe Scrambled Eggs are a perfect fusion of Italian and Vietnamese flavors. But the real star, in my opinion, is the Ube Souffle Pancakes. These purple beauties are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
What I love most about Crustacean is how they’ve managed to elevate Vietnamese cuisine while staying true to its roots. It’s fine dining without the stuffiness, and that’s a rare find in Beverly Hills.
The An Family’s Culinary Legacy
The story of Crustacean is intrinsically linked to the remarkable journey of the An family. Helene An, often referred to as the mother of fusion cuisine, fled Vietnam in 1975 and brought with her a treasure trove of secret family recipes. The An family opened their first restaurant in San Francisco in 1971, and Crustacean Beverly Hills followed in 1997.
Helene An’s daughter, Elizabeth An, who now runs the restaurant, shared in an interview with Forbes that their success lies in their ability to blend traditional Vietnamese flavors with modern culinary techniques. We’re always evolving, she said, but we never forget our roots.
The Secret Kitchen
One of the most intriguing aspects of Crustacean is its secret kitchen – a separate, enclosed kitchen within the main kitchen where only family members are allowed. This is where the An family’s most treasured recipes are prepared, including their famous garlic noodles and roasted crab.
While these signature dishes are available for dinner, elements of the secret recipes find their way into the brunch menu as well. The Crab Cake Benedict, for instance, features a crab cake made using the family’s secret recipe, topped with a perfectly poached egg and hollandaise sauce.
Brunch Menu Highlights
The AN Sum Brunch menu at Crustacean is a testament to Chef Helene An’s culinary prowess. Here are some standout dishes:
- Ube Souffle Pancakes: These vibrant purple pancakes are made with ube, a purple yam popular in Filipino cuisine. They’re light, fluffy, and served with a coconut-maple syrup that perfectly complements the subtle sweetness of the ube.
- Cacio e Pepe Scrambled Eggs: A fusion of Italian and Vietnamese cuisines, this dish features creamy scrambled eggs with pecorino cheese and black pepper, served on top of crispy Vietnamese rice paper.
- Pho-sted Beef Hash: A clever play on the Vietnamese soup pho, this dish features braised beef brisket, crispy potatoes, and a poached egg, all served with a pho reduction sauce.
- Lemongrass Mimosa: No brunch is complete without a cocktail, and Crustacean’s Lemongrass Mimosa is a refreshing twist on the classic. It’s made with lemongrass-infused vodka, fresh orange juice, and champagne.
According to Eater LA, Crustacean’s renovation in 2018 cost a whopping $10 million, transforming the space into a sleek, modern dining room while still maintaining elements of its Vietnamese heritage. The investment seems to have paid off, as the restaurant continues to be a favorite among locals and celebrities alike.
“Crustacean’s brunch offering is a masterclass in fusion cuisine. It’s a delightful journey for the palate, blending the familiar with the exotic in the most harmonious way.” – Jonathan Gold, late food critic for LA Times
The Hideaway
If Lawry’s is old Hollywood, The Hideaway is new Hollywood – with a Mexican twist. I discovered this gem last year, and it’s quickly become one of my go-to spots for a lively brunch with friends.
The moment you step inside, you’re hit with a riot of colors. The vibrant decor, with its pink and green accents, feels like you’ve stepped into a stylish hacienda. But it’s the food that keeps me coming back. Their modern take on Mexican brunch classics is simply divine.
My absolute favorite? The Lobster Frittata. It’s a perfect blend of fluffy eggs, succulent lobster, and just the right amount of spice. Pair it with their signature Mezcal Mule, and you’re in for a treat.
But the real showstopper at The Hideaway is their roaming margarita cart. Yes, you read that right. A cart dedicated solely to crafting the perfect margarita, right at your table. It’s like having your own personal mixologist. Trust me, after a couple of these, you’ll be ready to salsa your way through the rest of your Sunday.
Trendy Brunch Spots
The Ivy
The Ivy is practically synonymous with celebrity sightings in Beverly Hills. I’ll never forget the time I brunched next to Jennifer Aniston – I was so starstruck I could barely eat my Crab Cakes Benedict!
But The Ivy isn’t just about spotting celebrities. The food here is seriously good. Their brunch menu is a perfect blend of California cuisine and comfort food. The Breakfast Pizza, topped with smoked salmon and cream cheese, is a crowd favorite. And if you’re feeling indulgent, you can add lobster to pretty much anything on the menu.
What I love most about The Ivy is its East Coast vibe. With its white picket fences and floral prints, it feels like a slice of the Hamptons in the heart of Beverly Hills. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely Sunday brunch, especially if you can snag a table on their famous patio.
Cabana Cafe
Nestled in the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, Cabana Cafe is the epitome of laid-back luxury. I stumbled upon this poolside gem during a staycation last summer, and it’s quickly become my go-to spot for a relaxing weekend brunch.
The tropical setting is unbeatable. Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool, palm trees swaying in the breeze, as you sip on their signature Bellini. It’s like being on vacation without leaving the city.
Their all-day brunch menu is a beautiful mix of healthy options and indulgent treats. The Avocado Toast is a must-try – it’s elevated with pickled onions and chili oil, giving it a kick that sets it apart from your standard avo toast. But if you’re in the mood for something sweet, their Buttermilk Pancakes, topped with berries and vanilla cream, are simply divine.
What I appreciate most about Cabana Cafe is their attention to detail. From the striped umbrellas to the impeccable service, every aspect of your brunch experience is carefully curated. It’s the perfect spot to while away a lazy Sunday afternoon.
The Rooftop Beverly Hills
For those who like their brunch with a side of breathtaking views, The Rooftop Beverly Hills at the Waldorf Astoria is the place to be. I celebrated my birthday here last year, and let me tell you, it was an experience I’ll never forget.
As you step out onto the rooftop, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and downtown LA. It’s the kind of view that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.
The brunch menu here is a perfect reflection of California cuisine. Light, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Their Smoked Salmon Benedict is a standout – the hollandaise sauce has just the right amount of tanginess to complement the rich salmon.
But what really sets The Rooftop apart is their cocktail game. Their Bloody Mary bar is legendary, allowing you to customize your drink with an array of garnishes and spices. My personal favorite? The Green Goddess Bloody Mary, made with tomatillos instead of tomatoes. It’s refreshing, unique, and packs a punch.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Parakeet Café
Parakeet Café is the kind of place you’d walk right past if you didn’t know better. But trust me, you don’t want to miss this hidden gem. I discovered it by chance during a shopping trip from Beverly Hills to Rodeo Drive, and it’s become my go-to spot for a quick, delicious brunch.
The atmosphere here is refreshingly laid-back compared to some of the more upscale spots in Beverly Hills. With its rustic-chic decor and friendly staff, it feels like a cozy neighborhood café – albeit one with an impeccable pedigree.
Their all-day menu is a health-conscious foodie’s dream. The Mushroom Toast is a revelation – a mix of wild mushrooms on sourdough, topped with a perfectly poached egg. It’s earthy, creamy, and utterly satisfying. For something sweeter, their Gluten-Free Banana Pancakes are surprisingly fluffy and flavorful.
What sets Parakeet apart is their commitment to using organic, locally-sourced ingredients. You can taste the difference in every bite. Plus, their coffee program is top-notch. Their Lavender Latte is a must-try – it’s like springtime in a cup.
While Beverly Hills is a city known for its glitz and glamour, brunch spots like Parakeet Café offer a more relaxed, yet still quintessentially Beverly Hills experience. It’s the perfect place to refuel after a morning of shopping or before exploring the neighborhood’s iconic attractions.
As we wrap up our culinary journey through Beverly Hills, it’s clear that this city offers a brunch experience for every taste and occasion. From celebrity hotspots to hidden gems, from poolside cafes to rooftop restaurants with panoramic views, Beverly Hills truly has it all.
Whether you’re a local looking for your new favorite spot or a visitor hoping to catch a glimpse of Hollywood glamour, these brunch destinations are sure to satisfy. Just remember, in Beverly Hills, brunch isn’t just a meal – it’s an event. So dress up, bring your appetite, and who knows? You might just find yourself brunching next to your favorite celebrity in one of these chic spots.
And if all this talk of luxury dining has piqued your interest in Beverly Hills real estate, why not take a stroll through the neighborhood after brunch? You might just stumble upon your dream Beverly Hills mansion. After all, in this city, anything is possible – especially over a mimosa or two!
