Travel Tips

Ask A Concierge: Things To Do in Beverly Hills Beyond Shopping

Locations in this article:  Los Angeles, CA

Sarah Dandashy of Ask A Concierge spent many years working in Beverly Hills. While it’s often best known for high-end shopping on Rodeo Drive, it’s also home to popular restaurants, beautiful gardens, and even a museum. Here is her insider’s guide on how to spend the day in Beverly Hills.

Nate ‘n Al

Nate ‘n Al is one of oldest delicatessens in Beverly Hills. Established in 1945, it has been a favorite of Hollywood stars and producers for decades, making it truly an institution. Known for its corned beef, brisket, hamburgers, hot dogs, stuffed cabbage, and short ribs, it is comfort food at its finest. Nate ‘n Al is great for a family lunch but classic enough for a business breakfast.

Paley Center for Media

The Paley Center is a museum dedicated to TV and radio in the heart of Beverly Hills. With exhibits ranging from current day TV hits to classic shows from decades ago, the focus is on the cultural and social impact of TV and radio in American and world history. A highlight of the Center is the incredible TV and Radio Archive that visitors can access. Name an episode of your favorite show and you can watch it on one of the dedicated viewing consoles. It’s an impressive visit for people of all ages and generations.

Il Pastaio

Classic Italian located on one of Beverly Hill’s busiest corners, Il Pastaio is a destination lunch spot. The food is top notch to match its star-studded patio. It doesn’t do traditional reservations, so be prepared to wait for a table. But if you can get a coveted seat on the patio, you’ve practically made it in Hollywood.

The Grill on The Alley

The Grill is most noted for its steaks, but its Lobster Salad and crab cakes are signature highlights of the impressive menu. A staple of the power-lunch scene, opt to sit in a booth next to the A-listers. Don’t know what to order? Let the dedicated staff expertly guide you through an impressive meal.

Rodeo Drive’s Walk of Style

Relatively young in relation to Beverly Hills history, The Walk of Style was founded in 2003 by the City of Beverly Hills and the Rodeo Drive Committee. Inspired by the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Walk of Style features bronze plaques set into the sidewalk honoring some of the city’s most notable names, from Giorgio Armani to Tom Ford to Manolo Blahnik. Come and search for your favorite designer!

Beverly Canon Gardens

This 33,000-square-foot public space is located between the Montage Beverly Hills and Bouchon Restaurant. With fountains, gardens, and plenty of tables for outdoor dining, the Beverly Canon Gardens is one of Beverly Hills’ newest parks.There are also free live music events and movie nights on select evenings.

Bouchon Bakery

Located right next to its famous sister restaurant, Bouchon, by famed chef Thomas Keller, Bouchon Bakery is a little nook offering gourmet sandwiches, baked goods, and coffees to go. Known for its macarons, you can enjoy a treat outside in the famous Beverly Canon Park.

Wally’s Wine Bar

Wally’s Wine Bar started as a wine store in Westwood and is now a complete wine destination in Beverly Hills. Part store, part wine bar, and part restaurant, Wally’s is a destination for the after work crowd. It doesn’t take reservations, but it also seems to be able to accommodate. Come for the wine, and stay for the food and atmosphere.

Want to learn more about popular travel destinations—beyond the tourist traps? Check out:

By Nino D. Gordeli and Sarah Dandashy for PeterGreenberg.com