Why The Nice Guy Has Staying Power As One Of The Top Restaurants In L.A.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Daniels

As everyone knows, there’s no shortage of star power in L.A. Tinseltown is home to some of the world’s biggest names, which of course means, it’s also home to some of the most talked about hot spots, some of which have become globally recognized. With a delectable menu, exciting beverage program and frequent celebrity guests such as the Kardashian and Jenner clan, the Hadid sisters and Drake, The Nice Guy has deservedly and undeniably become one of those household names.

Created by The h.wood Group and designed by John Sofio of Built, Inc., this dim-lit, sexy establishment has ‘swanky’ written all over it. It has a vintage-style appeal with contemporary design elements—a challenging aesthetic combination that the restaurant/lounge has artfully mastered. This includes the glass-enclosed hanging lights, the upholstered banquettes at each booth, the wooden finishes, the ‘70s style seats and the marble-and-brass bar—one of the more prominent features of the large space.

Photo Credit: The h. Wood Group

The problem with L.A. restaurants, however, is that a lot of them are all bark and no bite. They become overhyped and leave real foodies feeling underwhelmed, with a lackluster menu and below par dining experience. Thankfully, The Nice Guy is not that type of establishment. With options such as meatballs with spicy tomato sauce, burrata and grilled bread; blue crab arancini with Calabrian chili aioli; hamachi crudo with gazpacho broth and coriander salt; squid ink campanelle; pan-seared branzino with celery root purée and the Nice Guy burger with maple glazed bacon—each dish is more tantalizing than the next.

To complement the extensive food menu, there is a unique and tempting cocktail program, which was very obviously crafted by an extremely skilled set of true mixologists and inspired by hip-hop superstar Drake. Using fresh and house-made ingredients, it’s difficult to choose between libations like the Spicy Siena with Fresno chili and Avion reposado; A Mo’s Paloma with fresh grapefruit and Herradura double-barrel reposado, served on a large rock; the Stand Up Guy with Absolut Elyx vodka, espresso and chocolate bitters; or the Chairman, made with salted cola reduction and Gentleman Jack whiskey, served in a flask.  Or if you really feel like having a party, try the nOVOcaine with Absolut Elyx vodka, Virginia Black whiskey, mango, banana and cinnamon, served over crushed ice in a bronze owl—or order any of the options in a large format punch bowl. There is also, of course, an equally appealing wine list. But no matter what you order, we’re sure that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy this reservation-only establishment. Just make sure your name is on the list before you show up.

Photo Credit: The h. Wood Group