Simone Koga

Simone, A New Restaurant in LA’s Arts District, Opens Tonight | Eater

"A long-awaited solo restaurant from Manresa alum Jessica Largey, this Arts District opening pairs fine-dining technique with casual versatility in a lively, multifunctional space that includes a front 25-seat bar called Duello (helmed by Iain McPherson), a walnut chef’s counter for six offering a full tasting menu, and a dining room for à la carte and large-format shareable dishes. Largey — a James Beard Rising Star Chef and former chef de cuisine at Manresa who also cooked at Providence — emphasizes produce-driven California cooking, showcased in dishes such as charred squash with nectarine, celery root and macadamia nut salsa and pole beans with Urfa chile crème fraîche, purple tomatillos, and almonds. Housed in a 1920s-era building with Art Deco touches, concrete flooring, brick-walled nooks, and striking light fixtures, the space was designed by Deirdre Doherty to create three distinct atmospheres. Backed by partners Bruno Bagbeni and filmmaker Joe Russo, the highly anticipated debut attracted a star-studded opening crowd after lengthy construction delays, and plans to serve dinner and drinks six nights a week while delivering high-level execution across bar snacks, à la carte plates, and a formal tasting experience; it is named for the singer of the same name." - Monica Burton