Issue: Summer 2017

Feast of Fantasy

The wonderful thing about Hollywood is that it’s always filled with surprises.

The Edmon Restaurant resides inside the Hollywood Historic Hotel. Built in 1927 by S. Charles Lee, the National Landmark captures the beauty of a bygone era. During that time, its close proximity to The Paramount Film Studios made it home to talented stars of the silent film era. During the 1970s, storefront renters Edmon’s Unique Furniture and Stone Gallery began restoring the hotel to its former glory. Since Edmon Simonian was a fourth generation woodworker, he was highly skilled with a precious gift for crafting, carving and designing intricate pieces of wood. His one storefront location eventually expanded over the entire block and, 20 years later, Simonian bought the building to fulfill his dream to restore the hotel, down to the original red brick exterior.

The luxuriant texture and style of the hotel was created by architect S. Charles Lee. He is recognized as one of the most prolific motion picture theatre designers of the West Coast and drafted the Hollywood Historic Hotel when he was just 28. Lee’s portfolio includes over 400 theaters throughout California and Mexico, including Westwood’s Bruin Theatre (1937) and the Academy Theatre (1939).

The newly opened Edmon Restaurant is a visual delight. Entering the restaurant, you’re not quite prepared for the glamorous interior.

This part of Hollywood is a reflection of Hollywood’s industry. Nearby studios, prop houses and other enterprises that support the movie business are scattered throughout the area. The hotel’s east Melrose location and history attracts a sophisticated and adventuresome clientele. Not too far away is Larchmont Village and the venerable Hancock Park, traditional bastion of Los Angeles notables, including Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Settling into your table, however, it’s you who will feel like a celebrity, transported back to Old Hollywood. Massive art deco-style chandeliers, lots of brick and just enough subtle lighting to foster the fantasy that you are meeting a lover or a spy connection.

But don’t let the glamour fool you—the food is an eclectic assortment of tantalizing flavors that make choosing difficult. Each dish arrived beautifully presented and sauced to perfection with complex flavors. The wine list includes offerings from California, France and Italy.

Among your choices: Baby Romaine tossed in a spicy 'caesar' salad, heirloom cherry tomatoes, toasted hemp seeds, sweet anise crostini; Perogies filled with potato and black garlic, collard greens, black eyes peas, fried quail egg, vinegar yeast broth; Tasmanian Trout, red frill mustard, citrus segments, rutabaga, apple reduction; Roasted chicken, parmesan millet, truffled artichokes, onion gravy; Niman Pork Chop, foraged mushroom paprikash, and nokedli; and a finish of bread pudding with toasted honey merengue and white chocolate pearls. There’s a wonderful happy hour menu with suitable libation accompaniments in a truly remarkable setting. Fulfill your favorite fantasy and check out The Edmon for a surprising Hollywood experience. DH