Maude

Where seasonal storytelling meets culinary intimacy, Maude Los Angeles transforms fine dining into a deeply personal narrative through Chef Curtis Stone's ingredient-driven tasting menu. Named after Stone's grandmother and culinary mentor, this Beverly Hills sanctuary seats just 25 guests around an open kitchen, creating an atmosphere where sophisticated technique meets nostalgic comfort.

Since opening in 2014, Maude has established itself as Los Angeles fine dining's most distinctive voice through Stone's revolutionary approach to seasonal cuisine. The Australian-born chef, renowned for his television presence and training under Marco Pierre White, conceived Maude as his creative laboratory—a space where monthly ingredient themes once guided nine-course journeys through California's seasonal bounty. This Michelin-recognized restaurant earned critical acclaim by eliminating traditional menu choices, instead inviting guests to trust Stone's culinary vision completely.

The cuisine at Maude represents contemporary Californian cooking at its most refined, where global influences merge with locally-sourced ingredients in unexpected harmony. Signature preparations like the Butter Poached Lobster with black truffle and pearl onions showcase Stone's technical precision, while the theatrical Canard à la Presse—pressed tableside and presented in two services—demonstrates his flair for culinary drama. Each dish reflects Stone's philosophy of elevating comfort food through sophisticated technique, from bacon and eggs raviolo with duck egg to scallop crudo adorned with caviar and nasturtium flowers.

Designed by Bishop Pass, Maude's 1,500-square-foot space blends midcentury modern aesthetics with vintage touches, including heirloom plates from Stone's grandmother that enhance the restaurant's intimate heritage. The open kitchen concept fosters transparency between chef and diner, while the temperature-controlled wine loft houses 125 carefully curated selections. Wine Director Ben Aviram's program emphasizes pleasure over pretension, offering thoughtful pairings that complement Stone's seasonal narratives without overwhelming the culinary focus.

Service at Maude strikes the perfect balance between Michelin-star polish and approachable warmth. The restaurant's small scale ensures personalized attention, while the menu-less format encourages guests to embrace culinary adventure. This intimate setting, combined with Stone's commitment to seasonal ingredients and nostalgic flavors, creates an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

As Maude prepares for its transformation into Pie Room in late 2024, securing a reservation at this best fine dining Los Angeles destination becomes increasingly precious. Book well in advance to experience Stone's farewell celebration of ingredient-driven artistry, where each evening promises an unrepeatable journey through California's finest seasonal offerings in one of the city's most coveted dining rooms.