The Gilded Bellini at Villa Blanca
If you’re a religious viewer of Vanderpump Rules or Housewives of Beverly Hills (like me), you probably know that socialite Lisa Vanderpump-Todd and her husband Ken Todd own quite a few hotspots in Los Angeles that are known for being ridiculously fabulous and over the top. Villa Blanca is located on the corner Brighton Way in Beverly Hills, and is conveniently just a few streets away from Rodeo Drive. Convenient for a little shopping post brunch… and by shopping... I mean window-shopping. The restaurant is known for its Mediterranean dishes, all-white interior design, open patio and celebrity clientele. I was fascinated how visually appealing its sultry ambiance was in pictures, so I made sure to find out just what made this restaurant so intriguing.
It was a sunny, refreshing Saturday afternoon and the seats were filled on the patio outside. As I walked in, my first impression was: upscale, classy, and just the right amount of gaudy. There were intricately designed pillars lining the walls, elaborate flower arrangements throughout the restaurant, eye-catching mirrored furniture… like a serene vintage garden, with touch of modern elegance.
The entire dining area was very polished; Booths were lined with gold metallic pillows, walls were embellished with intricately molded mirrors, and rustic white furniture was distributed around the restaurant for a very home-y accent.
Straight ahead was a gorgeous bar that’s design resembled mercury glass, and opposite was the open windows to the outdoor patio overlooking the busy, yet fascinating BH street. All the way to the right on the far end of the restaurant was the private entrance, used for celebrity and VIP entrances and exits. AKA: where the paparazzi wait patiently.
The appreciation of fabulous brunches runs in the family, so I brought my mom, Candy and my brother Steven along with me. We got seated in one of the best tables in the restaurant – it was in the middle of the dining area, but half inside and half on the patio. Lucky for us we killed two birds with one stone: experiencing indoor and outdoor dining simultaneously… the Vanderpump way.
To start, I ordered the Saint Rose champagne cocktail. From the first sip I was obsessed with it. It was the perfect marriage of champagne, raspberries, and some floral notes. It’s a refreshing cocktail for anyone who loves something a little on the sweeter side. My entrée was a Walnut Crusted Salmon Salad. WOW is all I can say. I was really impressed with how fresh and savory, yet a bit sweet it was. It was pan roasted over arugula, spinach, fennel, mandarin oranges, cherry tomatoes, red onion (I ordered without), and white balsamic vinaigrette. It was so light but completely filled me up. I’d say it was the most fitting brunch meal, because no one wants to be uncomfortably full while drinking… at least not I.
I really overall enjoyed Villa Blanca – the food, drinks and atmosphere were all up to par to the positive reviews I have heard. I think this is a perfect place for a group brunch with girlfriends for a special occasion since it is a little dressy - Check the Brunch Attire section for details! Just the interior alone provides a white-hot photo opp. And I know that even if you don't want to admit it, you too THRIVE on an amazing Instagram-able picture. Make sure to watch my video on Villa Blanca detailing my experience!
Does this restaurant make your brunch go-to list?
Villa Blanca
9601 Brighton Way
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 859-7600