By Jonathan Ruiz
Beverly Hills may be famous for its glamorous dinners and celebrity sightings, but I've always believed the neighborhood truly shines at lunch. Whether you're shopping along Rodeo Drive, meeting a client for a power lunch, or simply enjoying a leisurely afternoon in the 90210, the range of midday dining here is remarkable. From old-school institutions to buzzy new arrivals, here are my favorite lunch spots in Beverly Hills.
Key Takeaways
- Beverly Hills offers everything from iconic power-lunch institutions to casual sandwich counters
- The Golden Triangle puts many of the best lunch spots within a few walkable blocks
- There are genuinely affordable options alongside the high-end dining the area is known for
- Reservations are recommended at the most popular spots, especially during the midday rush
The Classics: Institutions Worth Knowing
Some Beverly Hills lunch spots have earned their reputations over decades, and they remain as beloved as ever. These are the places I send anyone who wants to experience the timeless side of the neighborhood.
Timeless Beverly Hills Lunch Destinations
Institutions that define the midday scene:
- La Scala — the quintessential Beverly Hills lunch, famous for its legendary chopped salad; an old-school Italian spot where the lettuce piles are as iconic as the clientele
- The Polo Lounge — a lovely, storied setting at the Beverly Hills Hotel for a relaxing, upscale midday meal
- Spago — Wolfgang Puck's flagship remains one of the defining restaurants in Beverly Hills, with a seasonal California menu served in an elegant courtyard
- Il Pastaio — holding down one of the most recognizable corners in town, with the Drago family's house-made pastas and a sidewalk patio made for people-watching
Upscale Favorites for a Special Lunch
When the occasion calls for something more elevated, Beverly Hills delivers in abundance. These spots are perfect for a celebratory lunch or an impressive client meeting.
Elevated Midday Dining
Where to go when the occasion calls for it:
- Avra Beverly Hills — a stunning Greek seafood house designed like an open-air villa, with whole fish flown in and grilled simply; an effortless fit for a day in the Golden Triangle
- The Terrace at The Maybourne — an Italian piazza-inspired setting perfect for a long, sunny lunch with fresh, seasonal dishes
- Crustacean — a longtime favorite for its famous garlic noodles and ritzy atmosphere, with a weekday power lunch that's become a Beverly Hills tradition
Casual and Affordable Gems
Contrary to what many assume, you don't need to spend a fortune to eat well in Beverly Hills. Some of my favorite lunches happen at these more casual spots.
Great Lunches Without the Splurge
Affordable and delicious options:
- Lorenzo California — an Italian sandwich counter serving giant focaccia sandwiches stacked with prosciutto and truffle cream; grab one and walk over to Beverly Gardens Park for a picnic
- The Honor Bar — a more accessible sibling to South Beverly Grill, great for convenient to-go sandwiches or unwinding with a burger
- Kazan — an upscale Japanese noodle spot where a satisfying bowl of ramen costs about the same as a couple of smoothies elsewhere in town
- South Beverly Grill — reliable, crowd-pleasing American fare in a lively setting, perfect for a relaxed lunch with colleagues
Making the Most of Lunch in Beverly Hills
One of the things I love about Beverly Hills is how walkable the dining scene is. Many of the best spots cluster within the Golden Triangle, anchored by Canon Drive, Beverly Drive, and Rodeo Drive, so it's easy to pair a great meal with an afternoon of shopping or strolling. The lunch rush can get busy at the most popular spots, so I always recommend making a reservation when you can, particularly for the sit-down institutions. And if you're new to the area or considering a move here, exploring the local dining scene is one of the best ways to get a genuine feel for the Beverly Hills lifestyle.
FAQs
What is the most iconic lunch dish in Beverly Hills?
The La Scala chopped salad is arguably the most famous lunch order in Beverly Hills. This customizable Italian chopped salad has been a staple for decades and remains a must-try for anyone wanting to experience a classic Beverly Hills lunch. The restaurant lets you customize your chopped, making it a versatile base for whatever catches your eye.
Are there affordable lunch options in Beverly Hills?
Absolutely. While Beverly Hills is known for high-end dining, spots like Lorenzo California, The Honor Bar, and Kazan offer excellent meals at more accessible prices. Even Erewhon, funnily enough, has become one of the more affordable places to grab a quick lunch in the neighborhood. You don't need to splurge to eat well here.
Do I need reservations for lunch in Beverly Hills?
For the most popular sit-down spots like La Scala and Avra, reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy midday rush. Casual sandwich counters and to-go spots generally don't require them, making them great options for a more spontaneous lunch.
Discover the Beverly Hills Lifestyle
The dining scene is just one of the many things that makes Beverly Hills such an extraordinary place to live. If you're considering a move to this iconic neighborhood or exploring luxury real estate on the Westside, I'd love to share my local knowledge and help you find the perfect home.
