A new dining destination is set to open in Los Angeles this spring, bringing Mediterranean flavors and a vibrant atmosphere to Melrose Avenue. Carmel, founded by Asaf Maoz, Liron Hazan, Ronnie Benarie, and Yoav Schverd, will open its doors on May 2, 2025, in the former Village Idiot bar space. Designed to blend old-world charm with modern elements, the restaurant features vintage wallpaper, antique artwork, and an open kitchen where guests can watch chefs prepare dishes rooted in Maoz’s Syrian and Italian heritage. Inspired by Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market, the restaurant aims to be a community hub, offering a relaxed yet lively dining experience with a focus on seasonality and sustainability. Guests can enjoy natural wines on draft, fresh crudos, homemade pastas, and wood-grilled meats, all made with the freshest ingredients.
The menu highlights include smoked eggplant musabaha, whole grilled spotted shrimp, and rockfish schnitzel, alongside fresh bread like a 72-hour fermented Moroccan loaf. While Carmel prioritizes dining, it also embraces a vibrant bar scene, continuing the Village Idiot’s tradition of being a go-to spot for late-night drinks. Chef Maoz, who moved from New York to Los Angeles for this project, aims to capture the energy and communal spirit of both Tel Aviv and NYC, bringing a unique cultural experience to Melrose Avenue.
