An Afternoon of Perrier-Jouët and Pâtisserie at Newly Renovated Hotel Bel Air Lounge

A perfect afternoon celebrating the newest culinary offerings at the iconic Hotel Bel Air.

On Friday, luxe libations and a sampling of timeless tastes—think small bites of truffle grilled cheese, savory vidalia onion dip on crunchy crostini, and egg boats topped with a decadent dollop of caviar—were perfectly prepared by the hotel’s renowned Culinary Director, Chef Joe Garcia, in the style of afternoon tea, served with a sparkling glass of Perrier-Jouët in the hotel’s recently renovated, cozy Living Room lounge.

Just across the glamorous grounds, The Pâtisserie has officially opened its onsite doors, sharing celebrated French Pastry Chef Christophe Rulle (star of the Netflix original reality series, Bake Squad) and his signature selection of traditional Parisian pâtisserie. Come for a taste of the traditional Tropezienne, a melt-in-your-mouth Tahitian vanilla Chantilly cream puff, tempting tarts with fresh flavors of gorgeous Gianduja ganache and salted caramel, and of course classic croissants, café cookies and artisanal baked goods to take on the go.

If you reside in Los Angeles, or are thinking of planning a voyage to the coast soon, sure to stop by and experience the hallowed Hollywood history and cultural charm of this luxurious landmark while tasting some of the finest culinary craftsmanship and perfect pastry in town.

Scroll down to see more, with additional info and photo credits to Mark Read for Hotel Bel Air.

Learn more about the new offerings at The Pâtisserie and redesign of the Living Room at Hotel Bel Air:

”Los Angeles’ legendary estate and enclave of rarified exclusivity, Hotel Bel-Air, a Dorchester Collection hotel, ushers in a new era of culinary excellence and innovation with the reveal of  The Living Room and The Patisserie on August 16, 2024. Offering two unique dining experiences effortlessly transitioning from day into afternoon and evening and brought to life by Champalimaud Design, the new spaces are carved from nature, reflecting the understated glamour which has cemented Hotel Bel-Air as an icon of Hollywood since 1946, taking guests on an immersive sensory journey designed for connecting, unwinding, and indulging.

The new culinary outlets add to the hotel’s existing dining options, The Restaurant and Bar & Lounge under the inspired new direction of Culinary Director Joe Garcia (formerly of The French Laundry, Bicyclette, Manzke Restaurant, Bouchon in Beverly Hills and more), Executive Sous Chef Gel Zara, and Executive Pastry Chef Christophe Rull (“U.S. Chocolate Master”).

THE PATISSERIE

As guests cross the iconic Swan Lake bridge, they are welcomed by the aroma of home-made pastries and artisanal coffee at The Patisserie, an elegant and refined bakery nestled in an intimate outdoor courtyard. All specialty items and beverage selections can be ordered to-go or enjoyed in this welcoming new space amidst the hotel’s scenic gardens.

Replete with al fresco seating and an outdoor wood-burning fireplace, The Patisserie offers simple yet elevated delights, artfully baked by the hotel’s expert pastry team led by Chef Rull. Guests can indulge in a menu that takes inspiration from French pastry fundamentals and local purveyors, showcasing the best of California’s produce. An expansive croissant and cookie menu, freshly baked breads, handcrafted cakes, artisanal coffees, pastries, and specialty baked goods are among the specialty offerings. All to-go orders are placed in custom-designed packaging to ensure items are well maintained while in transit. 

Champalimaud’s new design evokes a nostalgic European boulangerie, tailored to the dreamy California vibe of Hotel Bel-Air. Past a display vitrine of artfully decorated baked goods, guests can admire the specialty breads which sit on bronze shelving overlooking the palms and florals outside. Fresh pastries of the day are presented in a yellow tiled display cabinet, a nod to Hotel Bel-Air's sun-drenched setting. Just outside the Patisserie, two courtyards set the scene for idyllic moments: a warm weather treat from the seasonal gelato trolley, or a latte enjoyed at bistro style seating overlooking blooming florals.

 Menu selections include: Tahitian Vanilla Chantilly Cream Puff topped with Craquelin, Chocolate Gianduja Ganache and Salted Caramel Tart, Pain au Chocolat, Croissants, Shortbread Cookies, and Banana & Blueberry Muffins. A variety of freshly baked Sweet and Savory Breads, including a gluten-free option, are also available. 

 The Patisserie is open daily from 7am to 12pm.

THE LIVING ROOM

The Living Room is an evolution of the quintessential hotel lobby lounge experience, showcasing exceptional afternoon and evening menu offerings developed by Culinary Director Joe Garcia. 

 Inspired by the lush experience of a conservatory, Champalimaud Design created a warm, enchanting atmosphere complementing the verdant setting of the hotel. A bespoke wallcovering featuring hummingbirds, jasmine, ferns, and citrus blossoms is accompanied by fabrics and finishes in hues of green, yellow and red mixed with natural textures. The iconic fireplace glows in the center of room as guests are enveloped by a variety of palms and dracaena that reflect the unique indoor-outdoor look and feel of this tranquil hideaway. The space is activated through afternoon high tea, light fare, a caviar menu, and specialty cocktails.

Menu selection highlights include: Vidalia Onion Dip, an elevated play on the classic American party food made with sweet caramelized Vidalia onions, crème fraîche, garnished with pickled pearl onions, crispy onions & chives, served with toasted baguette and optional caviar addition, Liberty Farms Duck Confit Gateau with Harry’s Berries strawberries and Sicilian pistachios, an Australian Winter Truffle Grilled Cheese Sandwich, and Ora King and Smoked Salmon Rillettes, alongside a decadent caviar menufeaturing classic and unexpected accoutrements such as blinis & toasted brioche. Guided by seasonality, Chef Garcia’s menu is masterfully paired with an inspired mixology program curated by Food and Beverage Director Micah Paloff. A highlight of the cocktail menu is an interactive preparation of the ‘Coldest Martini in Town’, served tableside.

The Living Room is open for service Wednesday through Sunday from 2pm to 9pm. Afternoon Tea is served Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with a seating at 3pm.

The new culinary concepts complement the hotel’s enduring staple dining experience, The Restaurant, where Culinary Director Garcia and Chef Zara meld modern California cuisine with Mediterranean influence to create exceptional all-day fare and weekend brunch. Guests will enjoy bold flavors that highlight peak-season local ingredients and amplify the ethos of Southern California with a level of refinement on par with the beloved hotel.  

‘The launch of The Living Room and The Patisserie is a testament to our dedication to creating diverse and exceptional dining experiences throughout the property” says Christoph Moje, General Manager of Hotel Bel-Air. “The premier culinary offerings introduced in these welcoming and stylish new spaces will enrich our overall hotel experience and are destined to become favorite spots for guests and neighbors alike.’”

Shop Black Friday French Thanksgiving Essentials From Sur La Table

Thanksgiving is almost upon us! And even though the French of course don’t celebrate the beloved American holiday and its culinary traditions, there are still plenty of ways to incorporate French techniques and aesthetics into your kitchen on Thursday.

What’s even better? Major Black Friday sales have already hit the internet—finally a piece of good news among the ashes of this très bizarre year—which means there’s still time to score deals on everything you need to turn the Big Day into a chic (and socially responsible) soirée.

Shop Black Friday French Thanksgiving Essentials From Sur La Table

Sur La Table is the ultimate destination for everything a French chef—or an aspiring one!—could possibly desire, and this week only, there are some mega sales on some of the most lusted-after pieces on the shelves. Shop some of the highlights below to get a jump on your holiday cooking—and your Christmas gift shopping!

Read about my experience baking croissants at a signature Sur La Table culinary class here.

12 Piece Turkey Dinnerware Set; $120.00 (Reg. $128.00)

”Thanksgiving feasts are about more than just the food—they’re about the memories. Make your seasonal celebrations memorable with our exclusive Turkey dinnerware featuring original artwork created just for us. It’s made of durable, dishwasher-safe earthenware and ideal for setting your Thanksgiving table.”

French Home Laguiole Pakkawood Carving Knife & Fork; $59

”The perfect set to have on hand for holidays, this elegant carving set includes a knife and fork made of heavy gauge stainless steel that ease through turkey, chicken, ham and roasts. They feature the iconic Laguiole bee insignia and triple-rivet design that references the town in Southern France where this style of utensil originates. Handsome pakkawood handles are curved and weighted for a comfortable grip.”

Staub Round Cocotte; $99 (Reg. $389.95) *MAJOR DEAL*
Staub Tomato Cocotte; $294.95

”A traditional French cooking vessel designed to concentrate flavorful juices, this hand-finished round cocotte is ideal for stews, soups, casseroles, roasts and braises. Enameled cast-iron construction distributes and retains heat evenly and effectively and requires no seasoning. Lid features self-basting spikes for continuous, even distribution of juices throughout cooking, so food stays moist and flavorful.”

Le Creuset Mini Cocotte; $84.94 (Reg. $120)

”Perfect for cheesy artichoke dip, fruit cobbler and more, this mini cocotte is great for preparing and serving individual portions of your favorite dishes. Cast iron’s efficient heating is perfect for slow cooking and baking, while the tight-fitting lid locks in heat and moisture for tender, delicious results. Available in a wide range of Le Creuset’s signature vibrant glazes, these cocottes add a touch of classic French beauty to any kitchen or table.”

La Rochère French Bee Wine Glasses; $65 (Set of 6)

”Embellished with bees, an emblem of Provence, from the oldest glassmaker in France. 8 oz. Dishwasher safe. Made in France.”

Le Creuset Heritage Pie Dish; $49.00

”Perfect for sweet or savory pies, quiche and more, this classic pie dish provides gentle, even heating for excellent results every time. Making an evenly fluted crust is easy thanks to the dimpled edge, and the thick enamel resists scratching. Durable stoneware features an industry-leading enamel interior that protects against utensil damage, staining and odor absorption. Bakers feature Le Creuset’s signature glazes in a variety of colors for striking oven-to-table presentation.”

La Tarte | 5 Thanksgiving Pie Baking Essentials From Sur La Table

Thanksgiving is likely going to feel a little quieter this year, which means it’s the ideal time to spend this week honing those culinary skills, perfecting recipes, and practicing technique.

Thanksgiving is nothing if not known for the pièce de résistance of all holiday desserts— the classic pie. Whether you prefer the usual crowd pleasers—like traditional apple, blueberry, or pumpkin—or fun fall flavors that are a little more outside the box, Sur La Table has everything you need to bake a complete showstopper that’s sure to make even the most tender turkey jealous.

Shop all the essentials below, and find more holiday favorites—already on Black Friday sale!—here.

5 Thanksgiving Pie Baking Essentials From Sur La Table

Emile Henry Traditional Pie Dish; $39.96 (reg. $44.95)

”Made in France just for us, this pie dish has a traditional size, shape and depth that’s great for baking classic pies just like grandma used to make. This Sur La Table exclusive is the same color on the inside and out, making it a unique piece of Emile Henry bakeware that you’ll be able to pass on to future generations.”

Sur La Table Pie Server; $14.00

”With one serrated edge and a rounded spade shape, this stainless steel server is perfectly designed for serving delicious slices of pie. It features a durable handle and cleans up easily in the dishwasher.”

Le Creuset Pie Bird; $13.00

”Let these colorful birds help you make crisp, delicious pies. Pie birds let steam escape from your pie without bursting the crust or spilling over into your oven. Simply place this oven-safe ceramic bird in center of pie and surround with filling and pastry top. Arches on the bottom redirect excess moisture to keep the bottom crust from becoming soggy.”

Harvest Pie Plungers; $10.50

”Use our exclusive pie plungers to create fall pies that truly stun. Simply put the plunger over your dough, press the plunger down, and you’ll have dough in an autumn-inspired detailed shape to decorate your pie with. They’re also great for making cookies. Set includes four pie plungers in the shapes of a leaf, a leaf with twig, a pumpkin and an acorn.”

Ceramic Pie Weights; $12.00

”Pie weights work better to keep pastry from shrinking or forming bubbles while it bakes. These ceramic weights do a superb job of holding the pastry shell in place during baking and cooling. Washable, reusable weights are conveniently packaged in an attractive glass storage jar.”

L'Etoile | The History of the Michelin Star Rating

Le Taillevent, one of the rare esteemed Parisian dining destinations to be honored with a 3 Star Michelin rating, as featured in the upcoming film, A Chef’s Journey.

If you read yesterday’s post about the new documentary, A Chef’s Journey—premiering in your living room this Friday—then surely you’re eagerly anticipating this cinematic trip to France and the chance to peek inside the world of not one, but three Michelin 3-Star rated French restaurants.

But while we’re waiting, what exactly does it mean to be a 3-Star rated restaurant? And who exactly is Michelin? Is it like the Zagat guide? Isn’t a five star rating the highest honor? I’m glad you (sort of) asked.

The History of the Michelin Star Rating

Like the Yelp review of its day, the Michelin tire company published its first Michelin Guide in France in 1900, as a resource for motorists to take along on road trips, highlighting the best amenities—including mechanics and, yes, restaurants—along the way.

In 1926, the first etoile (star) was introduced as a method to distinguish the must-see spots, and in 1933, the second and third stars were added as a full rating system. Unlike hotels, which all rank somewhere between one and five stars—usually through independent organizations like AAA, since there is no official authority—only very special restaurants even make the Michelin rank.

To clarify, while we might typically think of 1 star as a low rating, to have one Michelin star is a great honor in itself, while two and three stars are reserved for the most elite restaurants around the world.

Updated annually, the list of dining locations are announced each year in the guide, with a rating of:

• 1 star, which classifies “A very good restaurant.”

• 2 stars, which distinguishes “Excellent cooking that is worth a detour.”

• 3 stars, the highest honor, reserved for “Exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”

While the guide has adapted its system over the years to a more inclusive classification system that includes casual dining and eateries of all kinds that aren’t quite star material, the Michelin stars continue to be a rare achievement, and highly coveted.

According to the 2019 edition, there are currently only 137 Michelin 3-star rated restaurants around the world—for context, there are 197 countries on earth, meaning that most countries don’t have any at all. France typically leads the way as the country with the highest number—which makes sense since the French invented the system, and their dedication to traditional cuisine is unparalleled, really—currently with a whopping 29.

For added context, France is roughly the size of Texas, so that’s a lot of stars per capita, as compared to the US which currently has 14 in total—7 of which are in California, although sadly not in Los Angeles.

Other European cuisine capitals like Italy and Spain have 11; the UK has 5; China, Singapore, and the Netherlands have 2; while Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, and Taiwan have only one each.

However, it should be noted that Los Angeles currently hosts four Michelin 2-star rated dining destinations, including:

• n/naka in Culver City

• Vespertine, also in Culver City

• Providence in Hollywood

• Sushi Ginza Onodera in West Hollywood

And not for nothing, LA is also home to 16 Michelin 1-star rated spots, while Orange County has two, and there’s also one in San Diego.

See which local locales made the cut here, and check this handy barometer to track which Michelin rated restaurants have managed to survive in the wake of Covid closures.

NYC Guide | Best French Dining and Takeout

C’est moi, raising une coupe at Petite Boucherie in the West Village.

Now that outdoor dining in Los Angeles has been shut down for the second time this year, I couldn’t help but reminisce all the way back to the post-lockdown (yet now also pre-lockdown) peak fall days of October, when I took a very quick (and cautious) trip to New York City just to feel an ounce of normalcy again.

While it was certainly unnerving to see the lights of Broadway dimmed, and a bummer to be unable to partake in the colorful bar scene for an old-school night on the town, I was pleasantly surprised to find that La Grande Pomme (the Big Apple) is actually quite peaceful without throngs of tourists and out-of-towners. That riding a nearly empty and virtually spotless (and no longer malodorous) subway is almost a luxurious experience that I never thought I’d witness in this lifetime, and that the restaurant scene, which is the lifeblood of the city, was just as vibrant as ever.

The government-mandated al fresco order had music and bustle spilling into the streets and sidewalks, giving the city a same-but-different, spirited vibe that was almost—I said almost—reminiscent of Parisian café culture.

And speaking of Paris, there is an abundance of French bistros and brasseries scattered across Manhattan. Even if it isn’t possible to enjoy the full indoor dining experience—mosaic floors and Edith Piaf background tunes and all—at the time you’re reading this, ordering takeout is the perfect way to keep our friends and their businesses afloat, while enjoying fantastic French fare chez vous.

Best French Dining and Takeout in NYC

1. PETITE BOUCHERIE
14 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014
(646) 756-4145

Make a reservation
Order takeout

Nestled cozily in the West Village, on the iconic corner of Gay St. and Christopher, Petite Boucherie is the petite soeur (little sister) of its namesake, the original Boucherie. Expect all of the traditional favorites. Think escargot and a la carte charcuterie boards to start, then fill up on steak frites or share the Chateaubriand pour deux, and save room for a teacup full of authentic mousse au chocolat—which I’m here to tell you is surprisingly difficult to find in the United States!

BOUCHERIE
99 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014
(212) 837-1616

Make a reservation
Order takeout

The original West Village destination, Boucherie takes its decorative cues and its ambiance from the heart of the elegant Belle Epoque era. Picture traditional white marble bistro tables, burgundy booths, and framed replicas of vintage posters from the Toulouse Lautrec, Moulin Rouge can-can era. But lest you be intimidated by the appearance of grandeur and formality, I assure you that the experience is pure warmth and comfort. Additional locations include Union Square and La Grande Boucherie on West 53rd, all boasting the same menu of cuisine traditionelle.

2. LITTLE PRINCE
199 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
(212) 335-0566

Make a Reservation
Order Takeout

Cleverly named to incorporate its Prince Street location and the childhood literary classic, The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince), the floral facade of this reinvented French favorite is about as magnifique as it gets, this side of the Seine. Known as much for its cocktail boisson homages to the likes of American icons like Tina Turner, Ru Paul, Cyndi Lauper (and even Betty White) as it is for its French comfort foods like Ratatouille, Duck á l’Orange, and Black Truffle Steak Haché (a fancy word for hamburger), this SoHo “Bistro non Classique” has something for everyone.

3. PASTIS
52 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014
212-929-4844

Make a Reservation
Order Takeout

As soon as Carrie Bradshaw famously quipped to Samantha, “I’m not going to lose my table at Pastis so you can cruise a Holy Man,” in season 4 of Sex and the City, it became the line that launched a thousand reservations. All walks of life, from celebrities to eager tourists, flocked to the then up-and-coming Meatpacking district to see what the fuss was about. Note: just like when Sam spotted the first neighborhood Pottery Barn on the block, the mammoth Restoration Hardware that now sits across the street officially confirms the neighborhood’s full transition from dockside warehouse territory into full gentrification.

Outfitted in the familiar design tenets of a classic bistro (subway tile, oxidized mirrors, and hand-written specials on chalkboard signs), come for the brunch-time Croque Monsieur and stay for the Chicken Paillard and Boeuf Bourguignon—and the quick two minute walk to the Whitney.

4. MARSEILLE
630 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036
(212) 333-2323

Make a Reservation
Order Takeout

Just around the corner from the bright lights of Times Square, lies a little French oasis amid the hustle and bustle of Hell’s Kitchen. One day soon, when our musical friends return to the Broadway stage, it will once again be the place to quell a post-theater craving for the Marseillaise seaside fare of oysters and moules frites, or a nightcap toast with a coupe de Champagne. For now, enjoy the brasserie life with classic hits like creamy Bouillabaisse, pâté a la maison or Duck leg confit to-go—or in the warmth of a cozy corner booth if you can.

5. CAFÉ d’ALSACE
1695 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128
(212) 722-5133

Make a Reservation
Order Takeout

Whether you’re having a nostalgic yen for the bustling days of long, sidewalk Sunday brunches and brioche French toast, or just want to go to town on a bloody steak tartare, this cozy Alsatian spot, with its classically Germanic influences of sausage and sauerkraut, proves that good French eating isn’t just for the West Side. An afternoon spent wandering through midtown, window shopping your way through Saks, and meandering over to this Upper East neighborhood is the perfect justification for picking up a warm bowl of Choucroute Garnie and chocolate-drizzled profiteroles for the road.

Le Dîner + Le Cinéma | A French Twist on Dinner & and a Movie

A snapshot from the new documentary film, A Chef’s Voyage, premiering virtually this Friday, Sept 18.

Fun fact: My own maman is a proud alumna of Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, where she graduated #1 in her class and went on to work in a coveted apprenticeship for the French Ministry.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes on—Ratatouille style—behind the scenes of a celebrated, Michelin-rated traditional French restaurant, this weekend you can take an up-close-and-personal glimpse inside the authentic French kitchen experience, and experience a full tasting menu at the same time—all without leaving la maison.

This Friday marks the (virtual) premiere of the highly anticipated documentary, A Chef’s Voyage, which chronicles American Chef David Kinch (of the Bay Area fine dining locale, Manresa) as his team travels to France to work alongside three iconic French chefs in their 3-Star Michelin rated kitchens in Paris, Provence, and Marseille respectively.

For context, three stars is the highest Michelin rating, and there are currently 29 restaurants with this honor in all of France, far more than most countries which only have a few—The US has 14; Italy and Spain have 11; the UK has five; China, Switzerland and the Netherlands have two; while Sweden, Belgium and Taiwan only have one.

To supplement the cinematic experience for those of us who are currently land-locked, Chef Josiah Citrin of the beloved Santa Monica French eatery Citrin + Mélisse (which re-branded last year when the original Mélisse transitioned and divided into a more casual dining experience with a separate tasting menu) has created a five course, pre-fixe culinary collaboration that you can pre-order here and pick up this weekend (Sept 17-20) so that you can feel like you’re along for the ride, and vicariously taste your way through France.

For $75, you can eat your way through the entire menu (see below) and watch the Rémi Anfosso-directed film with a complimentary ticket and link for viewing at home—this weekend only.

To mark the 15th anniversary of Manresa, Kinch decides to close shop for a month so he and his staff can embark on their France voyage. Planning the trip takes months; to represent the refined Californian cuisine of Manresa, the team must bring their own seasonings, sauces that take days to make, and lots of abalone. But the logistics are tricky: how to sneak the food on flights; unfamiliar host kitchens; a language barrier and more.

A Chef's Voyage takes us behind the scenes as the Manresa crew attempts to stage nine major meals over 10 days in the world's most cinematic venues, alongside culinary superstars, with the world watching (and tasting) - all to celebrate 15 years of Manresa excellence by doing what Chef Kinch and his team do best: creating meals and experiences worthy of those three stars.

Preview the film trailer here, and pre-order your French feast here.

Images courtesy of Wagstaff Marketing.