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Emerging from the ashes of a destroyed Malibu project, Hermon's, a new American bistro, has carved out a distinct identity in the heart of Northeast Los Angeles. This establishment, a brainchild of the Last Word hospitality team, brings a sophisticated yet accessible dining option to a predominantly residential area. It blends vintage charm with contemporary culinary artistry, offering a unique gastronomic journey to its patrons.

Hermon's Journey: From Malibu's Ashes to L.A.'s Culinary Gem

In a compelling turn of events, the ambitious plans of the Last Word hospitality group, led by co-founders Holly Fox and Adam Weisblatt, to launch 'Chez Ren\u00e9e' in Malibu were tragically thwarted last year. A devastating fire in January consumed the historic former sheriff's station on Pacific Coast Highway, the intended site for their new venture. Undeterred, the team redirected their creative energy to Northeast Los Angeles, specifically the unassuming neighborhood of Hermon.

On December 12, 2025, Hermon's officially opened its doors at 5800 Monterey Road, Los Angeles, marking a new chapter for the seasoned restaurateurs. Weisblatt, a resident of nearby South Pasadena, had long envisioned transforming the former church banquet hall into a vibrant dining destination. This new establishment now stands proudly along the Arroyo Parkway, nestled between South Pasadena, Highland Park, and Montecito Heights, fulfilling a local demand for quality cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails.

Hermon's embraces an almost anti-trendy ethos, positioning itself as a mature dining spot. Its interior exudes a timeless elegance with large, comfortable half-circle booths, an inviting U-shaped bar, and a diverse collection of art adorning its walls. The mission-style dark wood furnishings and tiled bar evoke a sense of nostalgic charm, reminiscent of classic Los Angeles dining establishments.

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef David Kolender, whose American bistro-style menu masterfully infuses creative contemporary touches into traditional dishes. Even seemingly simple items, such as the marinated olives, are elevated with vibrant notes of orange, fennel, and chili flakes. The menu boasts a range of tantalizing options, including delicate scallop crudo and refreshing panzanella salad, both highlighting bright citrus flavors. A standout is the 'Ode to Chez' cheeseburger, a lavish creation featuring soubise fondue and bordelaise onions, served on a sesame milk bun \u2013 a delicious homage to their lost Malibu dream. Other enticing main courses include a rotating nightly pasta dish, succulent whole grilled branzino, and a hearty mushroom bourguignon. For starters, guests are highly encouraged to try the garlic bread, a whole round spelt loaf generously slathered in garlic butter, guaranteed to be an instant favorite. To complement the meal, Hermon's offers a selection of unique beverages, including the 'Tiny Tini' \u2013 a perfectly portioned cocktail for lighter drinkers, a sophisticated walnut old-fashioned, or the daily fruit daiquiri.

The opening of Hermon's is a testament to resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. It fills a significant void in the local dining scene, offering a welcome alternative to the often overly-trendy establishments found elsewhere in Northeast L.A. The restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a culinary haven where delicious food, artful presentation, and a timeless ambiance converge to create a truly memorable experience.