Take a step back in time with The Nice Guy, a ‘mafia’-inspired restaurant in West Hollywood. John Sofio and Sormeh Azad of award-winning design/build firm Built Inc. have teamed up with L.A. nightlife entrepreneur John Terzian of the H.Wood Group to bring a retro-restaurant to L.A’s dining scene.
Channelling the decadence of the era of Mafioso bars and restaurants, the project team has infused the timeless aesthetic of the ‘60s throughout the space. Upon entry, guests are greeted by a large, marble-top bar with chevron-stripe paneled mirrors, which leads way to a reservation only lounge, main dining room, and a patio area. Beyond the kitchen walls is a special chef’s table, tucked away behind shelving, emulating a secret surveillance headquarter.
Reminiscent of a traditional mafia social club, mod yellow and white floral-patterned booths contour the exterior wall and provide an intimate setting for concealed conversations between guests, while larger booths occupy the center of the space and encourage a lively atmosphere throughout the night. Dim lights, walnut flooring, vintage fabrics, and custom inlaid carpet add intrigue and will engage customers as they sip on cocktails and enjoy an Italian meal prepared by Chef John-Carlos Kuramoto.