Full Breakdown
Erewhon Café Opens at LACMA's New David Geffen Galleries
4/14/2026, 10:24:33 PM
Introduction of Erewhon Café
Erewhon, a high-end health food retailer based in Los Angeles, is set to open a café at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) within the newly inaugurated David Geffen Galleries. The café will debut on April 19, 2026, exclusively for LACMA members, before welcoming the general public on May 4, 2026. This collaboration marks Erewhon's first partnership with a museum, aiming to enhance the visitor experience at LACMA.
Café Features and Offerings
Located in the northeast pavilion on the W.M. Keck Plaza, Erewhon at LACMA will feature both indoor and outdoor seating with views of Alexander Calder’s fountain sculpture, "Three Quintains (Hello Girls)." The menu will include a variety of organic offerings such as coffee, matcha, fresh pastries, signature smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and grab-and-go meals. The café is expected to operate through the summer, contributing to the overall experience of the museum's new cultural space.
Background on the David Geffen Galleries
The David Geffen Galleries, designed by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, officially opened to the public on April 15, 2026. This $724 million project replaces four older structures with a single elevated exhibition floor, aiming to redefine traditional museum layouts. The building's design has sparked mixed reviews, with some praising its innovative approach while others criticize its aesthetic and functionality. The galleries are part of a broader effort to enhance LACMA's cultural offerings and attract a diverse audience.
Official Statements
Michael Govan, CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director of LACMA, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Erewhon is a Los Angeles icon that values creativity and wellbeing and is dedicated to its communities.” He emphasized the importance of the café as a place of respite for visitors amidst public art. Tony Antoci, CEO of Erewhon, echoed this sentiment, calling the collaboration a celebration of Los Angeles that aims to nourish and inspire the community.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding the café and the new galleries, the architectural design of the David Geffen Galleries has faced criticism. Former art critic Christopher Knight described the design as monotonous, lamenting the loss of public input in the project. This reflects a broader tension in the community regarding the balance between innovative architecture and public accessibility.
What's Next
As Erewhon at LACMA prepares for its opening, two additional dining options—a restaurant and a wine bar—are expected to launch later in 2026. The ongoing collaboration between Erewhon and LACMA is anticipated to evolve, potentially extending beyond the initial summer timeframe.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re so proud to partner with LACMA, a meaningful milestone as our first museum collaboration. It really feels like a celebration of Los Angeles, bringing Erewhon and LACMA together to nourish and inspire the community we love.” — Tony Antoci, CEO of Erewhon
- “Erewhon is a Los Angeles icon that values creativity and wellbeing and is dedicated to its communities. We look forward to working together on delicious offerings for our diverse, intergenerational visitors. A moment of respite at Erewhon at LACMA, surrounded by public art, will be a vital part of the LACMA experience.” — Michael Govan, CEO of LACMA
This partnership between Erewhon and LACMA represents a significant cultural development in Los Angeles, merging culinary innovation with the arts in a landmark setting.
