
Lawry’s The Prime Rib
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where culinary theater meets timeless tradition, Lawry's The Prime Rib Los Angeles transforms dining into ceremonial art through its legendary tableside carving ritual that has captivated discerning diners since 1938. This Beverly Hills institution stands as America's original prime rib specialist, elevating a single dish to fine dining mastery.
Founded by visionary cousins Lawrence L. Frank and Walter Van de Kamp, Lawry's pioneered the concept of prime rib-focused fine dining in Los Angeles, becoming the first restaurant in America to specialize exclusively in this noble cut. The Frank family continues this legacy today, maintaining the exacting standards that earned Lawry's recognition as a Los Angeles dining landmark. Their revolutionary tableside carving cart—a 700-pound gleaming silver masterpiece—remains the restaurant's crown jewel, operated by elite carvers who earn membership in the prestigious Royal Order of Carvers after six months of rigorous training.
The cuisine philosophy centers on perfection through simplicity. Each prime rib is slow-roasted on beds of rock salt and seasoned with the proprietary Lawry's Seasoned Salt blend, creating unparalleled tenderness and depth of flavor. Guests choose from cuts ranging from the California Cut to the magnificent Beef Bowl Cut, each carved to precise specifications tableside. The Famous Original Spinning Bowl Salad provides theatrical prelude, prepared tableside with crisp greens, shredded beets, and signature dressing spun in chilled bowls. Classic accompaniments include golden Yorkshire pudding, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich creamed spinach, while alternative offerings like Atlantic Lobster Tails cater to diverse palates.
The Beverly Hills dining room exudes sophisticated nostalgia with its Art Deco influences, red leather booths, and curated collection of Asian art and European portraits. Service embodies old-world refinement without pretension, with professionally trained staff orchestrating each meal as a celebration. The restaurant's reinforced floors accommodate the massive carving carts, while intimate booth seating encourages leisurely conversation. Lawry's wine program complements the rich cuisine with carefully selected pairings, while the classic bar serves signature cocktails in an atmosphere of polished elegance.
Reservations at this Los Angeles fine dining institution book well in advance, particularly for special occasions and holidays. The restaurant maintains a smart casual dress code befitting its refined atmosphere. For the ultimate experience, request a booth near the carving station to witness the full theatrical spectacle that has made Lawry's The Prime Rib an enduring symbol of Los Angeles culinary excellence.
CHEF
Various
ACCOLADES

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Casual in North America Ranked #321
