Empire Building

Scarpetta Coming to Montage Beverly Hills

Scarpetta's $26 spaghetti, tomato, and basil
Scarpetta’s $26 spaghetti, tomato, and basil Photo: Yogma via Flickr

The word must be out that L.A. restaurant space is ripe for the taking, as Scott Conant will join the wave of imported, empire-building chefs that may or may not be in the kitchen when you get there. The toque is planning a West Coast edition of Scarpetta at the Montage hotel in Beverly Hills, with plans to open in October. The new location, going head-to-head with neighbor and fellow import Bouchon, will offer similar seasonal Italian as the Scarpetta in Manhattan that New York Magazine’s Adam Platt found, “fresh and forward-thinking.” So, what will find its way onto the menu?

His signature spaghetti, creamy polenta, and moist roasted kid with rapini, panchetta, and potatoes will of course be here, but Conant’s crew will also be frolicking in our farmer’s markets for dishes exclusive to Beverly Hills.

Looking to the space, expect a combination of rustic and natural elements inside, with an al fresco patio and an “Old Hollywood” feel by Studio Gaia, the team responsible Tao Las Vegas. Fitting, as all this chef importation is beginning to feel a little like Vegas itself. At least it appears Parc, where we last saw the gifted John Cuevas, is staying put at The Montage even while room is made for Conant.

Scarpetta, 225 North Cannon Dr. Beverly Hills. 310-860-7970.

Scarpetta Coming to Montage Beverly Hills