Hermon’s: A New Culinary Addition to Northeast Los Angeles

Hermon’s, a new restaurant in the Hermon neighborhood of Northeast Los Angeles, has emerged as a significant dining establishment following the unfortunate destruction of the planned Chez Renée due to the Palisades-Malibu fire in January. Co-founders Holly Fox and Adam Weisblatt have transformed their vision into reality with Hermon’s, located in a former church banquet hall on Monterey Road. This marks the first serious restaurant in Hermon, a residential area nestled between South Pasadena, Highland Park, and Montecito Heights, which has long sought a quality dining option.

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The menu at Hermon’s features a blend of elevated yet approachable dishes, including the Ode to Chez cheeseburger, which is topped with soubise fondue and bordelaise onions on a sesame milk bun. Other notable items include a nightly pasta dish, whole grilled branzino, and mushroom bourguignon. The restaurant emphasizes a modern American bistro style, with creative touches evident in dishes like scallop crudo and panzanella salad, both enhanced with citrus flavors. The garlic bread, served as a whole round spelt loaf drenched in garlic butter, is recommended as a must-try starter.

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Hermon’s distinguishes itself with a design that combines vintage charm and modern sensibilities. The interior features mission-style dark wood furnishings, large half-circle booths, and an appealing U-shaped bar, creating a grown-up atmosphere that contrasts with the sometimes overly-trendy dining scene in Northeast Los Angeles. Eclectic art adorns the walls, contributing to the restaurant's unique character.

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Fox and Weisblatt, who also operate several popular restaurants in the area, including Barra Santos and Queen St. Raw Bar & Grill, have been instrumental in shaping the local dining landscape. Weisblatt, a resident of nearby South Pasadena, had long envisioned a restaurant in Hermon, and the unfortunate fire that halted their original plans ultimately led to the creation of Hermon’s.

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The opening of Hermon’s has been met with enthusiasm from local residents, who welcome the addition of a quality dining option in their neighborhood. The restaurant aims to provide a sophisticated yet accessible dining experience, catering to both casual diners and those seeking a more refined atmosphere.

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While the reception has been largely positive, some critics argue that the restaurant's pricing may not align with the expectations of the predominantly residential area. Concerns have been raised about whether Hermon’s can maintain its appeal amidst the competitive and sometimes transient dining scene in Northeast Los Angeles.

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As Hermon’s continues to grow, the menu is expected to expand further, with additional dishes and seasonal offerings. The restaurant aims to establish itself as a staple in the community, providing a welcoming space for both locals and visitors.

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“Welcome to Hermon!” — Holly Fox, Co-founder

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“Despite its vintage feel, chef David Kolender’s American bistro-style menu is full of creative touches that situate the restaurant firmly in the modern era.” — Adam Weisblatt, Co-founder

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