The iconic Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills unveils Gemma, a new California-inspired Pan-Asian dining and bar destination – marking a bold new chapter for the hotel’s signature rooftop experience. (Cover photo credit: Jakob Layman)
Reimagined as a sensorial, sky-high retreat, Gemma brings together destination-worthy cocktails, globally inspired cuisine, and weekend brunch within a dynamic indoor-outdoor setting. Framing sweeping views of the Santa Monica Mountains, Beverly Hills Flats and the Hollywood Sign, the space evolves seamlessly throughout the day, from an airy, sunlit daytime escape to an intimate, immersive evening rooftop defined by layered lighting, rich textures and a lively yet refined energy.
Helmed by Chef Peleg Miron, Gemma draws upon influences from Southeast Asia and the Pacific, resulting in a vibrant, contemporary expression of regional Asian cuisines through a distinctly California lens. The menu is grounded in precision, balanced, and bold yet nuanced flavors, complemented by an imaginative cocktail program that pairs vibrant ingredients with an elevated sense of escapism.
“Gemma represents an entirely new expression of the rooftop experience at our property,” says Scott Berger, general manager, Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.“It’s a space where global flavors and refined beverage programming effortlessly come together, creating a dynamic and truly distinctive setting in Beverly Hills.”
Led by Beverage Director Jim Kearns, Gemma’s beverage program mirrors the menu’s global influence, with cocktails inspired by Asian, tropical destinations and executed with a refined, contemporary approach.
The Menu: A Blend of Southern Californian and Southeast Asian Flavors
Gemma’s culinary program is built around a dynamic selection of refined small plates, pristine sushi and seafood, and premium cuts of steak infused with bold Asian flavors – designed for both exploration and shared dining.
“Gemma is a reflection of the places that shaped me across Southeast Asia, Southern California, and Hawaii, where food is deeply expressive and meant to be shared,” says Chef Peleg Miron, Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. “Each dish draws from those memories, with the intention of creating a sense of discovery and connection for our guests to experience something transportive yet familiar in the heart of Beverly Hills.”
Dim sum anchors the menu with elevated interpretations such as Wagyu Beef Wonton with Truffle Black Vinegar Sauce, Lobster Wonton with Chili Ponzu, and Shrimp Har Gow. Signature offerings include comforting, flavor-forward dishes such as Thai Curry, Chicken Makhani, and Singaporean Noodles, each reflecting the depth and diversity of regional culinary traditions.
Complementing these bold dishes is a curated raw bar featuring sashimi, cut rolls, and Japanese-inspired starters, including crispy rice with spicy tuna. A selection of premium grilled steaks, subtly infused with Asian influences, rounds out the menu.
Menu highlights include:
- Lobster Wonton (chili ponzu)
- Lettuce Cups (orange chili glazed beef)
- Tuna Tostada (leeks, sweet soy, chipotle aioli)
- Shrimp & Papaya Salad (kaffir lime, peanut vinaigrette)
- Miso Caesar (baby romaine, crispy wontons, miso powder, creamy Caesar miso dressing)
- Maine Lobster (Singaporean noodles, scallion, cilantro)
- Chicken Makhani (mint chutney, naan bread)
- Lobster Burger (gruyere, Japanese pickles, yuzu kosho aioli, brioche)
- Beef Stir Fry (filet mignon, spring peas, shiitake mushrooms, eggplant)
The Bar Program: A Global Perspective with a Refined Tiki Spirit
At Gemma, the bar program exists as more than a complement to the menu and is a distinct experience of its own, offering rare pours, thoughtful pairings, and a modern perspective on beverage culture. A curated selection of Coravin wines by the glass anchors the beverage program, complemented by an expansive Rosé offering, a thoughtfully curated sake selection, and a refined menu of spirit-free cocktails crafted with the same precision and sophistication as the cuisine itself.
The cocktail menu draws inspiration from a modern interpretation of Tiki culture, with highlights that include:
- Scorpion Bowl (Planteray 5 year and Coruba Jamaican Rums, Hennessy Privilege VSOP Cognac, Monkey 47 gin, orgeat, passion fruit and lime) – shareable for 2+
- Watermelon Mirage (Planteray 3 Star Rum, aloe, watermelon, mint and lime)
- Raspberry Lychee Martini (Belvedere Organic Vodka, St. Germain, Lychee, raspberry & lemon)
- Rosy Paloma (Ketel One Botanical Grapefruit and Rose, Luxardo Bitter Bianco, grapefruit, lime, Fever-Tree Pink Grapefruit soda)
Rooftop Brunch Above Beverly Hills
Gemma extends the rooftop experience into the daytime with brunch every Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, offering an à la carte menu featuring elevated takes on brunch classics alongside cocktails and panoramic views, creating one of Beverly Hills’ most compelling al fresco settings. Forthcoming, Gemma will introduce live entertainment and music programming featuring a versatile yet cohesive mix of vibrant indie electronica, timeless rock, and tropical funk music, with the energy building seamlessly throughout the day into the evening.
The Design: A Sensory Rooftop Escape Above the City
Designed by Marc Ange, the reimagined space features bespoke design elements, including striking yellow floor lamps inspired by abstracted Old World European Street lanterns, which introduce a vertical counterpoint within the horizontal landscape and create distinct points of light throughout the space.
A grounded, warm color palette of sienna, terracotta, and natural tones is complemented by a lush living wall, enhancing the sense of texture and atmosphere. At the heart of Gemma, the bar serves as a defining focal point, anchored by Breccia Pontificia stone that brings depth and natural variation, contrasting with the space’s clean, controlled geometry.
Gemma is located at 9850 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, California 90210 and is open Mondays – Fridays, 11:30 am – 10:00 pm and Saturdays – Sundays, 2 – 10:00 pm. Rooftop brunch is available Saturdays – Sundays, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. Reservations are available via OpenTable. For more information, please visit https://waldorfastoriabeverlyhills.com/.
About Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is a sanctuary of refined elegance, where impeccable service meets timeless beauty. Seamlessly blending sophistication with the vibrant spirit of Southern California, every detail is thoughtfully curated to surpass expectations and impress even the most discerning palette. Our artfully appointed accommodations, sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills, and world-class culinary experiences set the stage for unparalleled indulgence. Discover rejuvenation at the exclusive La Prairie Spa or bask in the allure of Beverly Hills’ most glamorous rooftop pool, each moment uniquely designed to elevate your stay. Whether celebrating life’s most cherished occasions or seeking an oasis of tranquility, we invite you to immerse yourself in this singular moment that could only happen at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.
About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning portfolio of 40 iconic properties, each embodying a distinct sense of place through sincerely elegant service, one-of-a-kind experiences and culinary mastery in landmark destinations around the world. The highly anticipated reopening of Waldorf Astoria New York, which Conrad Hilton called “The Greatest of Them All,” marked a defining moment for the brand – reintroducing a legend while ushering in a new era of luxury. Inspired by their timeless environments, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver an effortless experience seamlessly, creating a true sense of place for guests through stunning architecture, the famous Peacock Alley, refined art collections, Michelin-starred dining and elevated in-room amenities. In addition to the brand’s world-class hotel offerings, Waldorf Astoria boasts a global residential portfolio that provides the comfort of a private home combined with unsurpassed amenities and high-touch service. Waldorf Astoria is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Experience an unforgettable stay at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts by booking at waldorfastoria.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria, and follow the brand on X and Instagram.
