The Proud Bird Is a High-Flying Food Hall With Aviation Views

Aviation geeks are going to love The Proud Bird, a rethought new food hall concept situated right off the LAX runway. The rather historic restaurant has actually been around since 1967, but on the 50 year anniversary of its arrival has finally completed the overhaul of its once-staid look.

Now The Proud Bird is back and brighter than ever, featuring an airy new setup complete with floating planes overhead, a casual food lineup, and lots of room to watch the comings and goings of the airport nearby. The Specialty Restaurants Corporation behind the project have poured millions into the property ahead of its June 29 arrival, creating a ground floor open kitchen that toys with the now-ubiquitous food hall concept, while the Mile High Club Bar and Lounge provides cocktails, views, and plenty of fascinating history to read over.

Bellwether chef Ted Hopson and business partner Ann-Marie Verdi consulted on the menu, which is offered out to the public via a series of six small stations. There’s one for rotating Asian food, another for Italian, a third for standard American fare, and so on — plus a stop at Bludso’s BBQ, a stand all its own, serving barbecue now that the Compton location has closed up shop. Diners pay a la carte for their meals during lunch and dinner, but weekend brunch means all-you-can-eat fare at $30 a head.

The Proud Bird opens with limited hours on June 29, and expands into longer service starting July 5. For anyone wanting to get in early, reservations are required during limited timeframes, so best to plan ahead.

The Proud Bird
11022 Aviation Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA

• Where to Eat at LAX [ELA]

Wonho Frank Lee