Il sole is located in the heart of West Hollywood at the Beverly Hills end of the Sunset Strip. Far from your typical L.A. hang out, it feels as if you’re in some trendy place in downtown Manhattan. The location is convenient if you plan to go out that night. The restaurant is a perfect hideout for celebs, and would be appropriate for a low-key date as well. The dress code is fashion forward and smart casual. After all, you want to look good with all of those models and handsome regulars on display.

The recent remodel has changed the feel of this place completely. Upon entering we couldn’t help but notice the signature scent, Le Labo Santal 26. This aristocratic, smoky and leathery scent was exclusively created for the Gramercy Park Hotel in NYC. It brings back the warm and nostalgic feelings for Rose Bar, which was once the best nightlife lounge in New York City. After a huge success, this magical aroma has become a staple at some of the top restaurants and lounges in NY and L.A. The new décor features black leather couches, black walls with photographs, gold leaf ceilings and soft warm lighting, which is flattering for any skin tone or hot outfit.

The expectations ran high for Il Sole due to the involvement of new managing partner Brent Bolthouse, once responsible for the success of Hyde lounge. We’re still waiting for L.A. nightlife to catch up with NY, but in the meantime we will continue to support our new restaurants that deliver a sophisticated ambiance, a great crowd and delicious food.

For those of you who have been here before, the menu hasn’t changed all that much and delivers capable and satisfying fare. We dined on tomato soup, red beets with walnuts and goat cheese in a vinaigrette dressing, Spaghetti Con Ragu (a classic spaghetti with a Tuscan style meat ragu) and Veal Chops pan seared with a demi glace sauce. They have two house specials for those who want to be bad, Lasagna Tre Formaggi Con Ragu Bolognese and Spaghetti with truffles. We heard the tiramisu is great but we didn’t go there, who would have any room left?

To read more from Project Lena, check out their blog at projectlena.com or visit their Facebook page.

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