The Los Angeles County Museum of Art may be the ultimate highbrow destination on the Miracle Mile, but for those of us who think a good drink is as much a work of art as a Cy Twombly or Ed Ruscha, then we have the place for you. Ray’s Restaurant and Stark Bar, a brand new watering hole and eatery, has just opened up in LACMA and it is the coolest new spot in town. Though they just opened up their doors days ago, this bar (where you can sit and eat small bites) and restaurant is quickly gaining a following with entertainment executives to gallerinas and everyone in between. Ray’s Restaurant and Stark bar takes their names from Ray Stark, the iconic filmmaker and producer responsible for films like The Owl And The Pussycat, Steel Magnolias, and Funny Girl (his daughter happens to be on the board of trustees at LACMA) and the beautiful mid-century interiors (designed by iconic architect Renzo Piano) are already drawing raves from design-buffs all over the City of Angels. Of course, the drinks are the real reason to come here—world-famous “barsmith” Michel Dozois has designed a beverage program that includes everything from scrumptious scotch concoctions to delish absinthe-infused fizzes that will have you scheduling all of your drink dates here, stat. And though we have yet to try their grub, word on the street is that Ray’s open-faced burger is a thing of pure carnivorous joy. This is the ultimate fusing of fine dining and fine art, and we swear when you head over to Ray’s, you’ll be in for one fine evening.
5905 Wilshire Boulevard (At Fairfax Avenue); 323-857-6180.