A Stunning First Look Inside Curtis Stone's New Hollywood Restaurant

Curtis Stone and brother Luke set out to open one of the most ambitious restaurants in Los Angeles, and these are the results: a top flight European-style butcher shop up front, and 83 seats in a gorgeous Art Deco-style dining room in the heart of Hollywood. Blending rustic and industrial with the elegant and lush, the Stones have really outdone themselves here.

Dubbed Gwen after their grandmother (Maude in Beverly Hills is named for the other one), this high-ceiling beauty is scheduled to open some time in mid-July, with reservations available via Tock starting in August. The dining room comprises a slew of experiences, from chef's counter and bar area to patio and mezzanine.

Dinner here is based on a five course tasting menu, with open wood flames roasting whole animals and pristine cuts fueled straight from the butcher shop up front. Designed by brothers Evan and Oliver Haslegrave of hOme Studios, the place feels very much like a gussied up movie set from The Matrix or Gattaca, blending elements of steampunk, Art Deco, and gothic interiors. The moody lighting gives it that tuxedo-evening gown feel, the kind of comfortable place to hold a fancy soiree. The design details look phenomenally well thought out, and the space just beckons those to revel in everything from the chinchilla barstools to the green velvet banquettes.

Maude veteran Ben Aviram manages the front of house and wine program while Mitchel Bushell compiles the cocktail program. Check the space out and look forward to an official opening in a few weeks time.

Gwen. 6600 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 323-946-7500