Rodeo Drive has long been the epitome of luxury shopping, attracting high-end fashionistas and discerning shoppers for nearly a century. The street became a fashion landmark when Aldo Gucci opened his boutique in 1968, setting the tone for what would become a sprawling haven for luxury brands. In the years that followed, iconic names like Vidal Sassoon established their presence, reinforcing Rodeo Drive’s reputation as a global style hub. However, in the past decade, Rodeo Drive has seen a remarkable transformation that goes beyond luxurious retail experiences. The corridor has become a culinary destination that expertly blends high fashion with high gastronomy, offering a diverse array of dining options to visitors and locals alike.
A Rising Star: Yusuke Yamamoto’s Omakase
Among the highlights of this newfound culinary culture is the intimate eight-seat omakase, helmed by sushi chef Yusuke Yamamoto. Located discreetly on the second floor above the famed Two Rodeo shopping area, this establishment has already garnered attention as one of the premier sushi experiences in Los Angeles. The meticulously curated 14-course tasting menu showcases the finest selections from Japan, including caviar-topped toro and Hokkaido uni, showcasing the chef’s commitment to quality and technique. Diners can also relish house-made soba noodles, concluding the experience in a manner that feels complete and deeply satisfying. Dan Dunn, a prominent food and drink writer, eloquently expresses this dining experience as akin to entering “a beautiful, meticulously crafted haiku,” where every element is considered—from the exquisite dishes to even the chopsticks, which seem to have been fashioned by skilled artisans.
Just a couple of blocks up the street, Sushi Note Omakase further enhances Rodeo Drive’s reputation for top-tier sushi with its own innovative twist. Offering a twenty-piece tasting menu that showcases the freshest market fish, Sushi Note distinguishes itself with its thoughtful wine pairings, crafted by an in-house sommelier. This shift from traditional sake to wine highlights the restaurant’s dedication to elevating the dining experience and appealing to a broader audience. Sushi Note is tucked away in a hidden shopping center, alongside the lively Baja-inspired steakhouse named Hideaway, where sizzling fajitas and unique margaritas contribute to the area’s vibrant culinary tapestry. This dynamic combination makes Sushi Note a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the intersection between traditional Japanese cuisine and contemporary flavors.
High Culinary Art at Gucci Osteria
Furthermore, Gucci Osteria stands at the convergence of fashion and fine dining. Opened in early 2020 atop the distinguished Gucci salon, this rooftop restaurant showcases a tasting menu developed by acclaimed chef Massimo Bottura. Guests can indulge in Bottura’s innovative dishes, such as Risotto Camouflaged As Pizza and a visually stunning presentation of cured scallops and caviar that channel the nostalgia of breakfast. With an extensive selection of reserve Italian wines available for pairing, a meal at Gucci Osteria becomes an experience that transcends mere dining; it is an exploration of culinary artistry. As expert Angelo Garrett Darland observes, Rodeo Drive has successfully transitioned from an exclusive retail playground to a lively culinary hotspot, where world-class flavors are accessible and celebrated by all.
A Steakhouse Legacy: CUT by Wolfgang Puck
You cannot discuss Rodeo Drive’s gastronomic evolution without acknowledging the illustrious CUT steakhouse, launched by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck in 2006. Situated within the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, CUT has become legendary for its offerings of top-quality wagyu beef sourced from the US, Australia, and Japan. Diners are treated to an interactive experience where they can evaluate their chosen cuts of meat before it heads to an expertly managed grill, ensuring a dining experience bespoke to their preferences. Adjacent to CUT, the CUT Lounge presents an array of international whiskeys, allowing for a holistic dining and drinking experience that resonates with the elite clientele of Beverly Hills. Andrew Borenzweig, a local food expert, acknowledges CUT’s significant impact on raising culinary standards in the area, firmly establishing it as a staple in the Beverly Hills dining scene.
As Rodeo Drive continues to redefine its identity, one thing has become abundantly clear: the fusion of luxury shopping and culinary excellence creates a vibrant atmosphere that captivates all who wander this palm-lined avenue. From personalized omakase experiences to innovative fine dining, visitors can indulge in an eclectic mix of flavors that speak to the area’s storied history and contemporary evolution. The modern Rodeo Drive is not just a shopping destination but a food lover’s paradise, ready to be explored with each tantalizing bite.