Los Angeles’ renowned and ever-evolving dining scene is currently navigating a period of significant transition, marked by both the infusion of fresh culinary energy and the bittersweet farewells to established, well-regarded institutions. This dynamic interplay of opening doors and closing chapters reflects the constant evolution and inherent challenges within the city’s competitive restaurant industry landscape. As summer progresses, notable shifts are reshaping the culinary maps of key neighborhoods, including the burgeoning area of West Adams, the sophisticated enclave of Brentwood, and the iconic stretches of West Hollywood. These movements, reported by food writers observing the pulse of the city, highlight the perpetual cycle of innovation and resilience in the face of economic realities.
A New Contender in West Adams: Cento Raw Bar
Adding a distinctive new dimension to the culinary offerings in West Adams, acclaimed chef Avner Levi, widely recognized for the enduring popularity of Cento Pasta Bar, has recently unveiled his latest ambitious concept: Cento Raw Bar. Situated in the space directly adjoining the original pasta bar establishment, the new venue represents a deliberate shift in focus, centering on the exquisite bounty of the ocean. Cento Raw Bar is designed to offer a sophisticated, seafood-centric menu that prioritizes quality ingredients and presents them through artful and appealing presentations. Signature highlights of the debut menu include impressive, multi-tiered seafood towers, a curated selection of high-grade caviar offerings, creative and indulgent interpretations such as lobster melt sliders, a varied assortment of fresh oysters, and a unique dish poised to become a potential fan favorite: chilled uni pasta. Complementing these diverse and compelling culinary offerings is a carefully assembled natural wine program, chosen to pair harmoniously with the seafood, alongside a list of inventive and refreshing cocktails, all crafted to elevate the overall dining experience. The opening of Cento Raw Bar signals continued growth, specialization, and diversification within the West Adams dining scene, strategically building on the established success and reputation of its pasta-focused predecessor under Chef Levi’s direction.
Saying Goodbye in Brentwood: A.O.C.
Conversely, the culinary landscape on the westside, specifically in Brentwood, is preparing for a significant and much-lamented departure. A.O.C., the celebrated and influential wine bar concept from the esteemed restaurateur duo Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, is officially scheduled to close its Brentwood location on August 1. This impending closure marks the conclusion of a notable 16-year run for this westside outpost, which has long been a cherished fixture in the community, known and appreciated for its inviting ambiance, thoughtful service, and particularly its exceptional and expansive wine list, expertly paired with a menu of seasonal, complementary small plates and larger dishes. The difficult decision to close the Brentwood venue was formally attributed by the owners to a complex confluence of significant and ongoing financial pressures. These challenging factors were specifically and clearly cited as financial losses stemming from a challenging operational environment that included, among other elements, the January 2025 fires (as cited), the extensive and economically impactful 2024 entertainment industry strikes which significantly curtailed business activity across the city, the lingering and fundamental shifts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and persistently escalating operational costs, most notably the rising rent for the physical space. Patrons and long-time supporters of A.O.C. in Brentwood should take note that while this specific location is ceasing operations, the original and enduring A.O.C. restaurant located in West Hollywood will continue to operate as usual, thereby maintaining the brand’s significant presence and legacy within the city’s dining scene.
A Landmark Departs in West Hollywood: Chin Chin
Adding to the notable closures impacting West Hollywood, the Chin Chin restaurant situated on Sunset Plaza is also set to bid farewell. For decades, this specific location has stood as a recognizable landmark, renowned for its accessible and popular take on Chinese American cuisine and its consistent ability to attract a diverse clientele, including numerous celebrity patrons over its long history. The Sunset Plaza location of Chin Chin is officially slated to serve its final meals on July 27. This impending closure brings to an end a remarkable tenure spanning well over forty years at this particular site, cementing its status as one of the area’s longest-running and most iconic eateries. Chin Chin has long been a familiar and often nostalgic name for generations of Angelenos, synonymous with certain classic and comforting dishes. While the Sunset Plaza location holds a particular historical and sentimental value for many diners, the announcement regarding its closure explicitly confirms that other existing Chin Chin locations operating across the wider Southern California region will remain open, ensuring that the brand’s enduring legacy and its signature cuisine will continue to be available elsewhere.
Navigating the Culinary Tide
These concurrent developments – a vibrant new opening alongside the significant closures of two long-established and distinct establishments – starkly underscore the dynamic, complex, and often challenging operational environment facing restaurants across Los Angeles. While the introduction of innovative ventures like Chef Levi’s Cento Raw Bar highlights the persistent spirit of creativity and potential for growth within the culinary sector, the departures of cherished names like A.O.C. Brentwood and Chin Chin Sunset Plaza serve as potent reminders of the economic vulnerabilities and external pressures the industry continues to navigate in the post-pandemic era. As the city’s diverse dining scene continues its perpetual state of transformation and adaptation, patrons are encouraged to actively support the local businesses, whether they are exciting newcomers or resilient veterans, that collectively contribute to the rich and vibrant culinary fabric that defines Los Angeles.
