LOS ANGELES – The culinary landscape of Los Angeles continues its relentless evolution this July, presenting a complex picture of vibrant new ventures launching alongside the departure of long-established institutions. This dynamism reflects both the city’s enduring appeal as a gastronomic hub and the persistent economic headwinds facing the hospitality sector.
According to reports compiled on July 1, 2025, the month’s dining narrative is one of both expansion and contraction, a testament to the resilience and vulnerability of businesses in the face of financial pressures and external shocks.
Fresh Culinary Arrivals Define the Month
Amidst the flux, several notable establishments are opening their doors, bringing fresh concepts to the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Among the most anticipated is Cento Raw Bar, a new concept spearheaded by creative director Brandon Miradi. This venture promises a refined focus on oceanic delights, featuring elaborate seafood towers, select caviar offerings, unique lobster melt sliders, and a distinctive chilled uni pasta. Complementing the menu is a carefully curated, natural-focused wine program alongside creative cocktails designed to enhance the raw bar experience.
Adding to the city’s rich tapestry of global flavors is Lucia, a stylish new Afro-Caribbean restaurant. Located on Fairfax Avenue, Lucia is the creation of “Top Chef Canada” winner Chef Adrian Forte in partnership with owner Sam Jordan. The restaurant is set to introduce Angelenos to a vibrant menu that includes innovative dishes such as Wagyu patties and a compelling oxtail pepper pot. Beverage director Melina Meza has crafted a drink menu intended to perfectly complement the bold flavors of the cuisine, promising an immersive cultural and culinary journey.
Meanwhile, a familiar name is making a comeback in Koreatown. Baekjeong KBBQ, a popular destination for Korean barbecue enthusiasts, has reopened its doors after an 18-month closure. The restaurant returns with a brand new space, signaling a renewed commitment to the area. Plans are also underway to introduce exciting new features, including a dry-aging program for their meats and the development of an appealing lunch menu priced under $20, aiming to attract diners seeking quality and value during the daytime hours.
Iconic Eateries Bid Farewell
While new businesses emerge, the month also marks the end of an era for several long-standing Los Angeles institutions. After serving the community for over 40 years, the West Hollywood location of Chin Chin, a casual Chinese dining staple, is scheduled to close permanently on July 27.
Equally significant is the planned closure of the Brentwood location of A.O.C., the acclaimed restaurant from culinary duo Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne. This location is set to cease operations on August 1. The owners have cited significant financial loss stemming from the January 2025 wildfires, which impacted various parts of the region, combined with rising rent costs, as critical factors necessitating the difficult decision to close. They confirmed that their West Hollywood location of A.O.C. will remain open, continuing to offer their celebrated California-Mediterranean cuisine.
Navigating Persistent Industry Challenges
The closures highlight the ongoing and complex challenges confronting restaurateurs across Los Angeles. Operators continue to grapple with mounting financial pressures, including rapidly rising rents that strain profitability. The lingering economic impact of the January 2025 wildfires also continues to affect businesses, disrupting supply chains and impacting customer traffic in certain areas. Furthermore, the effects of the 2024 entertainment industry strikes persist, having reduced foot traffic and discretionary spending in key dining districts reliant on industry professionals.
Despite these significant hurdles, there are also glimmers of positive momentum. The importance of community support for local food businesses is increasingly highlighted as crucial for survival and growth in this challenging environment.
In a notable recognition of the city’s culinary talent, Jon Yao, the chef-partner at Kato, was recently named the Best Chef in California at the prestigious 2025 James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards. This award underscores the fact that even amidst economic pressures, Los Angeles remains a hotbed for culinary innovation and excellence, with its chefs receiving national acclaim.
The July dining scene in Los Angeles, therefore, encapsulates the city’s dynamic and often demanding nature. It is a period marked by both the excitement of new ventures and the poignant departure of beloved mainstays, all set against a backdrop of complex economic realities that require both resilience from business owners and continued support from the community.
