The Benjamin Hollywood

The Benjamin Hollywood occupies a 1920s Art Deco building on the corner of Melrose and Formosa, its understated exterior giving it the feel of a classic neighborhood hangout. Inside, the space is intimate and dimly lit, wrapped in warm, caramel-stained wood paneling from floor to ceiling. A custom black and gold Art Deco carpet anchors the 58-seat dining room and the long, 15-seat bar, creating a moody, energetic atmosphere that feels more New York than Los Angeles. The menu is a focused list of elevated American classics, but the Benjamin Burger is what pulls most people in for a first visit. It’s a carefully constructed house blend patty with New School American cheese, seared onions, pickles, and a hickory sauce, and it always comes with fries. Beyond the burger, you’ll find other straightforward dishes like a Wagyu New York Strip with cognac cream sauce, whole roasted branzino, and starters like crab beignets or triple-fried chips and dip. The bar program is just as intentional, with a dedicated menu for martinis – from Ben’s own recipe with Monkey 47 Gin to a classic Dirtier Martini. The entire concept comes from Ben Shenassafar, co-founder of the streetwear brand The Hundreds, as a more grown-up gathering spot for the community he built. You’ll even see the staff wearing uniforms from the brand. Shenassafar is often in the room himself, moving between tables. The place is almost always full, so reservations are essential – they open one week in advance and book up fast.