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The Benjamin Hollywood
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.4
The Benjamin Hollywood is an Art Deco–inflected American bar and restaurant where martinis, a serious bar burger, and crab beignets anchor a menu of updated classics. It feels like a throwback big-city dining room tuned for 2025, with a central oak bar, tight reservations, and a soundtrack that leans into late-night energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Benjamin Burger, Crab beignets with lemony aioli, Twice-baked potato with crème fraîche
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A glam, Art Deco American bar-restaurant built around martinis and a standout burger.
Who should go: Burger obsessives and cocktail lovers chasing a scene.
When to visit: Early evening for bar seats or later for full buzz.
What to order: Crab beignets, The Benjamin Burger, twice-baked potato.
Insider tip: If reservations vanish, go solo to the bar right at opening for your best shot.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax and side streets is metered and competitive after 6pm; no valet, so plan a few extra minutes to circle nearby residential blocks.
Dress code: Smart casual with a slight dressy lean—think elevated denim, button-downs, slip dresses, or anything that fits a chic bar-meets-supper-club vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to loud as the night progresses; early seatings are conversation-friendly, while later service leans buzzy with bar energy.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes for bar or walk-in tables if you show up after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: N/A—primarily a dinner-focused spot, but early weeknights generally have minimal waits before 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including salads, vegetable starters, and customizable sides.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides can be made vegan, but mains skew classic American with dairy and butter.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free dishes and modifications available; staff is attentive but no fully separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its low lighting, polished Art Deco styling, and strong cocktails create a confident big-city atmosphere that works well for early-stage dates without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—your best bet is arriving right at opening and aiming for the bar, which often has a few first-come seats even when the dining room is fully booked.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's more suited to adults, with a bar-forward layout, dim lighting, and a late-night crowd; older teens comfortable in restaurant environments may be fine.
Best For
Better for: A more polished, cocktail-forward experience than casual Fairfax haunts, with a standout burger and elevated bar classics served in a glam, grown-up room.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, broad vegan options, or an easygoing, family-friendly setting—this is unapologetically geared toward adults and evening energy.
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.8
The Benjamin Hollywood is an intimate steak and seafood spot where plush banquettes, low lighting, and a martini-forward bar set an upscale date-night tone. Couples come for crab beignets, classic cocktails, and a polished dining room that feels grown-up without being stuffy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Beignets, The Benjamin Burger, Whole Branzino
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A chic Melrose steak and seafood room built for martinis and lingering dates.
Who should go: Couples wanting a polished, classic-feeling date night.
When to visit: Prime-time evenings for full ambiance and bar energy.
What to order: Crab Beignets, Whole Branzino, The Benjamin Burger.
Insider tip: Book a later reservation and plan to linger over martinis at the bar after dinner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available during dinner service; street parking on Melrose can be tight after 6pm but is possible on adjacent residential streets with attention to signage.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — elevated denim is fine, but most guests opt for button-downs, dresses, and polished layers.
Noise level: Moderate — lively bar energy but still easy to hold a date-night conversation at most two-tops.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially in peak 7–9pm windows.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited or not standard; during early weekday evenings walk-ins may face short waits or be seated at the bar.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, vegetable sides, and a couple of seafood-adjacent options can accommodate vegetarian diners.
Vegan options: Limited — vegans will need to customize sides; no dedicated vegan entrées.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several seafood and steak entrées are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the low lighting, plush seating, and classic steak-and-seafood ambiance create an intimate but not overly formal setting that works well for a first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — early or late seatings have the best luck. Prime-time walk-ins may land bar seats or wait 30–60 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal — the space caters to adults with a date-night focus, limited children’s menu options, and a quieter, refined atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: Romantic evenings, polished service, martini-forward cocktail experiences, and steak-plus-seafood dinners in an intimate room.
Skip if: You want a casual spot, a kid-friendly setting, or a place with extensive vegan options or quick-turn tables.
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.5
The Benjamin Hollywood is an intimate, Art Deco-influenced steak and seafood house built around martinis, branzino, and a signature burger that feels more supper club than casual bar. It’s become a modern Hollywood hangout for dressed-up dates, celebrations, and burger obsessives willing to splurge.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Benjamin Burger, Whole Branzino, Twice-Cooked Baked Potato
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A martini-and-burger-driven supper club with polished, moody design.
Who should go: Couples who love cocktails, steak, and old-school glamour.
When to visit: Later seatings when the bar and dining room feel buzzy.
What to order: Benjamin Burger, Whole Branzino, Twice-Cooked Baked Potato.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar if you want the full martini-and-snack experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings; limited metered parking on Melrose can be competitive after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Dressy smart casual — guests lean polished. Jackets not required, but elevated outfits fit the room’s Art Deco vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; you can hold a conversation, but the bar energy picks up during later seatings.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — dinner-focused restaurant with evenings being the main service window.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few refined vegetable-forward starters and sides are available, but entrées skew seafood and steak-heavy.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect only 1–2 modifiable sides or salads.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes can be prepared gluten-free on request, including the branzino and several starters.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the moody lighting, polished service, and martini-centric bar create an intimate but not overly formal atmosphere that works well for a dressed-up first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly at the bar or early in the evening, but prime-time slots almost always require a reservation. The bar is a strong backup if you're flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal — the dark, cocktail-forward atmosphere and late-night energy cater more to adults. Teens may be fine, but younger children may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Best for elevated date nights and martini-focused evenings where ambiance and a strong signature burger are priorities.
Skip if: Skip if you're seeking a quiet meal, extensive plant-based options, or a more casual, budget-friendly steakhouse.
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.4
The Benjamin Hollywood is a reservations-worthy Melrose supper club built around a serious house burger, steak, and polished cocktails in a dark, midcentury-influenced room. With a tucked-away patio and a menu of American classics dialed up just enough, it feels like a modern take on the neighborhood steakhouse more than a scene-first hotspot.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Benjamin Burger, Crab Beignets, Orange Chicken Wings
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A design-forward Melrose dining room where a carefully engineered burger and shareable plates headline the night.
Who should go: Burger and steak fans who want a polished, low-key scene.
When to visit: Later dinner seatings for a fuller room and patio energy.
What to order: The Benjamin Burger, Crab Beignets, and Orange Chicken Wings.
Insider tip: Solo diners can usually slide into a bar seat and try the burger without a prime-time reservation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available along Melrose in the $12–$15 range; street parking exists on side streets but turns difficult after 7pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished lean; dark denim is fine but most guests opt for elevated, night-out attire.
Noise level: Moderate—music and bar energy build later, but you can still hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait for bar seats and limited walk-in tables; reservations are strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—primarily a dinner-focused operation; early weekday dinners usually have minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A handful of workable options including salads, vegetable starters, and share plates, though the menu leans heavily toward meat.
Vegan options: Very limited—most dishes contain dairy or animal products; modifications are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Several strong options including proteins and some starters; staff can guide you to safer choices though cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the dim, midcentury-inspired room and polished service create an intimate atmosphere without feeling overly formal. The bar is especially strong for a more casual but still elevated first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable. Bar seats are your best bet—solo diners and couples can sometimes land spots without much wait, especially before 7pm or after 9pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The room skews adult, cocktail-driven, and dimly lit. Older teens may be fine, but families with younger children will find limited menu appeal and few kid-oriented accommodations.
Best For
Better for: A more polished, design-forward version of the neighborhood steakhouse, ideal for burger lovers, steak nights, and low-key date energy without the chaos of louder Melrose hotspots.
Skip if: You want broad vegan options, a casual family outing, or buzzy, high-volume nightlife energy—other Melrose restaurants might suit those needs better.
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.3
The Benjamin is an Art Deco-inspired American bar and restaurant opened in 2024 where martinis, a spendy steak, and a famous burger anchor the menu. Couples come for the candlelight, leather, and upstairs Bar Benjamin, turning steak frites and a cocktail into a full night out on Melrose.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Benjamin Burger, Steak frites, Twice-baked potato with bacon lardons
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A martini-and-steak bar that leans hard into glamorous Melrose nostalgia.
Who should go: Couples who love cocktails, burgers, and a dressed-up room.
When to visit: Book prime 7–9pm slots, then linger upstairs afterward.
What to order: Benjamin Burger, steak frites, deviled eggs.
Insider tip: Reserve dinner downstairs, then plan a nightcap at Bar Benjamin for balcony views and stronger drinks.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available most evenings ($12–$15). Street parking on Melrose is limited and fills quickly after 6pm; give yourself extra time.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Jeans are fine if paired with a nicer top or jacket; many guests opt for cocktail attire.
Noise level: Moderate. The downstairs dining room has a steady buzz but you can still hold date-night conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during 7–9pm prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; early evening reservations midweek are easy to secure.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options including salads, sides, and shareable starters; main entrée choices are limited.
Vegan options: Very limited—mostly sides or modified dishes; not ideal for strict vegan dining.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free plates (steak, salads) and modifications available, though no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The candlelight, upstairs bar, and stylish Art Deco design create a polished but approachable first-date atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes. Walk-ins can usually be accommodated early evening or late night, but expect long waits during peak dinner hours. The bar area is your best bet for last-minute seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The space skews adult, cocktail-centric, and is better suited for dates or groups. Older teens are fine, but it’s not designed for young children.
Best For
Better for: A more glamorous, cocktail-driven night out than many Melrose steakhouses—ideal if you want strong drinks, a standout burger, and a room with modern Hollywood energy.
Skip if: You want a quiet, traditional steakhouse experience or need robust vegan/vegetarian options; alternatives in the area cater better to those priorities.
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.1
The Benjamin Hollywood is an Art Deco–inspired supper club on Melrose where martinis, a signature burger, and a serious Wagyu steak program meet moody lighting and soundtrack-driven ambiance. It reads more like a glamorous modern steak-forward brasserie than a traditional chophouse, with a chef pedigree that nods to Spago and other LA institutions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu New York Strip, The Benjamin Burger, Crab Beignets
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A new-school Hollywood supper club pairing Art Deco design with steakhouse-level cooking and strong cocktails.
Who should go: Date-night and small groups wanting buzzy supper-club steak vibes.
When to visit: Prime evening reservations after 7:30pm for full room energy.
What to order: Wagyu New York strip, Benjamin burger, crab beignets starter.
Insider tip: Book bar or lounge seating if you prioritize martinis and atmosphere—the steak and burger still travel well there.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically offered along Melrose for around $12–$15; street parking is possible but competitive after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale — stylish jeans are fine, but most guests dress fashion-forward due to the supper-club ambiance.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; conversation is possible at two-top tables, but the soundtrack and weekend crowd create a buzzy backdrop.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation, though bar seating sometimes opens faster.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service isn’t a core focus here; early evening weekdays usually have little to no wait if you arrive before 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options like salads, vegetable sides, and the occasional non-steak entrée; not a vegetarian destination but workable.
Vegan options: Very limited; most dishes rely on dairy, butter, or meat-forward preparations.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free items including steaks and select sides; staff are accustomed to gluten-sensitive requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the lighting, martinis, and glam atmosphere create an elevated but not overly formal vibe ideal for a first date where ambiance matters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly — the bar and lounge areas often seat walk-ins, but peak weekend hours fill quickly. Arrive early or expect a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the moody lighting, cocktail focus, and late-night energy skew adult. Teens may fit in, but younger children won’t find dedicated amenities.
Best For
Better for: A more glamorous, supper-club take on steakhouse dining — ideal for cocktails, atmospherics, and a social-night-out experience rather than classic steakhouse tradition.
Skip if: You want a quiet, old-school chophouse, a large menu of traditional sides, or extensive vegan/vegetarian options.
The Benjamin Hollywood
8.4
The Benjamin Hollywood is an Art Deco–influenced bar and restaurant from the Hundreds’ Ben Shenassafar, known for martinis, a serious burger, and a room that feels built for lingering. Its patio and interior can be configured for private or semi-private events, making it a strong choice for intimate celebrations that want a little nightlife energy without going full club.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Benjamin Burger, Caviar-Topped Twice-Baked Potato, Whole Branzino
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A glamorous but approachable Art Deco room where burgers, martinis, and a flexible layout translate well to private dinners.
Who should go: Groups who care as much about cocktails and aesthetics as the menu.
When to visit: Prime evening slots when the bar is active but not overwhelming.
What to order: Benjamin Burger, caviar-topped twice-baked potato, whole branzino.
Insider tip: If you want speeches or a presentation, ask about reserving a back section of the dining room rather than the busiest bar seats.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings; nearby street parking exists but fills quickly after 6pm along Fairfax and residential side streets.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; elevated outfits fit the Art Deco room, but polished jeans and a blazer are fully acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation is doable at tables, though the bar area gets more energetic during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation, especially for larger groups or patio seating.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; for early evening visits Monday–Thursday, waits are usually short with a reservation recommended for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including salads, vegetable-forward starters, and customizable sides.
Vegan options: Limited; vegans may need to rely on modified dishes or sides.
Gluten-free options: Good flexibility; many mains and sides can be prepared gluten-free—inform the server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its moody lighting, strong cocktails, and stylish design make it ideal for a first date that feels elevated without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed. Small parties may snag bar or patio seating early in the evening; groups should reserve in advance, especially Thursday–Saturday.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The energy skews adult, especially in the evenings; older teens might be fine, but this isn’t designed for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting a stylish room with strong cocktails, nightlife-adjacent energy, and flexible semi-private configurations without committing to a full event venue.
Skip if: You want a quiet, conversation-heavy dinner or need extensive vegan options; look elsewhere for more serene dining or specialized dietary menus.