Beauty & Essex Los Angeles: A 2024 Guide to Hollywood Glamour & Dining

Beauty & Essex Los Angeles, a Hollywood dining and nightlife hotspot known for its opulent decor and multi-ethnic menu by celebrity chef Chris Santos, permanently closed in March 2024. This article delves into the rise and fall of this iconic venue, exploring its unique concept, memorable features, and the impact of its closure on the Hollywood scene. We’ll also provide alternative recommendations for those seeking a similar experience.

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The Glitz and Glamour: A Look Back

Beauty & Essex opened its doors in Hollywood in 2017, promising a glamorous “clubstaurant” experience that blended high-end dining with a vibrant nightlife atmosphere. The Rockwell Group designed the 10,250-square-foot space, featuring a unique “pawn shop” entrance that led to a series of jewel-toned dining rooms, a double-height main dining room with a 20-foot oval skylight, an outdoor courtyard, and a second-floor patio. Chef Chris Santos, a familiar face from Food Network’s “Chopped,” curated a multi-ethnic menu of shareable plates, with signature dishes like the intriguing Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Dumplings and the innovative Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos. The unique “pawn shop” entrance and jewel-toned dining rooms of Beauty & Essex offered a memorable, if pricey, experience.

A Feast for the Senses (and the Wallet)

The Beauty & Essex experience was a multi-sensory affair. Reviewers often described the ambiance as opulent and trendy, a magnet for celebrities and socialites. The hidden entrance added an element of exclusivity and intrigue, echoing the original Beauty & Essex on Essex Street in New York City. Featuring dishes like Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Dumplings and Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos, Beauty & Essex’s menu was a blend of familiar comfort and innovative fusion. While the food generally received positive reviews, with praise for the unique dishes and flavors, the service garnered mixed reactions. Some diners reported slow service and inattentiveness, especially during peak hours. The $31-$50 price range for entrees often raised eyebrows, placing Beauty & Essex firmly in the “special occasion” category. This begs the question: was the experience truly worth the splurge?

The Curtain Closes: Why Did Beauty & Essex LA Shut Down?

While the official reason for the closure remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, user reviews and local whispers suggest potential issues with the landlord may have played a role. The closure of Beauty & Essex LA in March 2024 undoubtedly left a void in the Hollywood dining and nightlife landscape. Its absence raises questions about the challenges of maintaining a high-profile establishment in such a competitive market. Was it a victim of changing trends, escalating costs, or simply a case of oversaturation? While Beauty & Essex LA is no longer open, its legacy as a trendy Hollywood destination leaves a void in the city’s nightlife scene. Further investigation might reveal a more definitive answer, adding another layer to the Beauty & Essex story.

Life After B&E: Where to Get Your Hollywood Glamour Fix

So, where do you go now that Beauty & Essex is gone? Don’t despair, Hollywood still has plenty to offer. Here are a few alternatives that capture some of the B&E magic, each with its own distinct personality:

Katsuya: This chic, sushi-centric spot offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and artful presentation. [https://www.wavesold.com/katsuya]
MainRo: Ascend to this trendy rooftop oasis for breathtaking city views, innovative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. [https://www.wavesold.com/mainro]
The Highlight Room Grill: This swanky poolside paradise is perfect for soaking up the California sun while enjoying delicious food and drinks. [https://www.wavesold.com/the-highlight-room-grill]
Catch LA: This West Hollywood hotspot is known for its fresh seafood, stunning rooftop views, and energetic ambiance. [https://www.wavesold.com/catch-la]
Craig’s: A classic Hollywood steakhouse with a sophisticated vibe, perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends. [https://www.wavesold.com/craigs]
Maybe you’d like something completely different? Escape the ordinary and discover a hidden gem at a Beijing cafe before gathering around a sizzling BBQ table for an unforgettable culinary experience.

The Legacy of Beauty & Essex LA

Beauty & Essex may be gone, but its impact on the Hollywood dining scene is undeniable. It pushed boundaries with its unique concept, opulent design, and innovative menu. It reminded us that dining can be an experience, a form of escapism, and a celebration of the senses. While its reign was relatively short-lived, Beauty & Essex LA left a memorable mark, sparking conversations and setting a high bar for future venues aspiring to capture the same blend of glamour, intrigue, and culinary creativity.

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Mark Soldy

Aficionado of interior design with a keen eye for style and innovation. As a guy deeply passionate about crafting captivating spaces, he blends creativity with functionality to breathe life into every room