Restaurant: Louka
Location: 340 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. (310) 858-4500
Date: May 23, 2025
Cuisine: Greek
Rating: Good but expensive, great service
I’ve had a weakness for Greek food for 35 years, ever since I spent the summers of 89 and 90 there.
Louka in Beverly Hills is a culinary gem that transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with its authentic and vibrant cuisine. Nestled in the heart of the city at 340 N Canon Dr, this upscale dining destination is a celebration of Greek culture and gastronomy. The restaurant’s concept is rooted in the traditional Greek philosophy of ‘meraki’, a term that encapsulates the soul, creativity, and love put into the preparation of food.
The atmosphere at Louka is a harmonious blend of sophistication and warmth, reflecting the spirit of Greek hospitality. The interior is elegantly designed with a modern aesthetic, featuring a palette of earthy tones, natural wood, and stone accents, creating a serene and inviting ambiance. The open kitchen adds a dynamic element to the dining experience, allowing guests to witness the culinary team’s passion and precision in action.
What sets Louka apart is its commitment to authenticity and quality. The menu is a testament to the rich diversity of Greek cuisine, featuring a range of dishes from classic meze and fresh seafood to succulent grilled meats, all prepared with the finest locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, showcasing the best of Greek and international vineyards. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious diner, Louka offers an unforgettable journey through the flavors and traditions of Greece right in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Spanakopita. Flaky layers of phyllo cradle a savory spinach-and-feta filling, bright with dill and a hint of lemon. Crisp on the outside, tender and pleasantly salty within.
Shrimp Saganaki. Delicious. Plump shrimp in a garlicky tomato sauce with tangy feta and a splash of ouzo—rich, briny, and bright, often served still bubbling.
Grilled Sea Bass. Crisp-skinned with moist, flaky flesh and a gentle lick of smoke. The flavor is clean and sweet, with a light brininess.
Lamb Shoulder Stew with Tomatoes. Very, very tasty. The lamb is fall-apart tender, and the tomatoes bring a bright, savory sweetness to a rich, ruby broth.
Tzatziki. I have to have it.
The dish, Garden Medley of Seasonal Vegetables, presents a kaleidoscope of sun-kissed hues—vibrant orange carrots, creamy yellow squash, and deep green asparagus, all harmoniously arrayed like a painter’s palette. The earthy aroma of roasted vegetables mingles brilliantly with the fresh zest of herbs, creating a fragrant invitation to savor. Beneath the delicate crumble of tangy feta, the texture is a delightful contrast; the tender yet slightly charred vegetables yield subtly to the bite, while the refreshing crunch of greens invigorates the palate. Each mouthful bursts with a symphony of flavors—a dance of sweetness from the carrots, the mellow richness of the squash, and a whisper of verdant bitterness, all beautifully layered and crowned with a sprinkle of fresh dill, which elevates this dish into an exquisite celebration of nature’s bounty.
Lamb stew with orzo. Comforting and savory, with tender, fall-apart lamb and orzo that plumps up to soak in the juices.
Grilled sea bass. Lightly smoky with crisp skin and tender, flaky flesh, it tastes clean and sweet, letting the fish speak for itself.
At the heart of the dining experience lies the exquisite sautéed seasonal greens, a dish that sings with life and vibrancy. The deep emerald hues of the tender greens, interspersed with the warm golden orbs of cherry tomatoes, create a visual symphony that invites anticipation. As the dish graces the table, a delicate aroma wafts upwards, intertwining the earthy scents of fresh herbs with the subtle tang of citrus. Each bite reveals a remarkable texture; the greens are silky yet slightly crisp, offering a luscious mouthfeel that is both refreshing and invigorating. The interplay of flavors dances on the palate— a gentle bitterness from the greens masterfully complemented by the sweet juiciness of the tomatoes, while a spritz of lemon harmonizes and elevates the entire dish into a realm of culinary elegance.
A selection of old-fashioned desserts. We had the pastry, the one on the right. It was a flaky filo pastry with sweet cheese inside. Really quite nice and very, very hot. I’m pretty sure that versions of this dish have been made for about 2,000 years! The layers shatter delicately, giving way to a warm, lightly tangy, creamy center—simple, comforting, and a little indulgent.
Vanilla ice cream. Creamy and cool, softly sweet with the clean perfume of vanilla, it melts smoothly and comforts without fuss.
Vanilla custard cake. Silky, lightly sweet custard over a tender sponge, perfumed with vanilla and finished with a delicate wobble.
Louka is some real deal higher end Greek, and the food and service are very good. However, you pay for the zip code.
