Issa Rae, the 39-year-old actress, writer, and entrepreneur, has opened Somerville, a new restaurant blending history, community, and great food in Los Angeles. She partnered with Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan, who are also Black entrepreneurs, to launch the new venture as part of her expanding business portfolio.
"Always wanted a neighborhood lounge to complement the special community that is View Park-Windsor Hills. The genius GVO Gentlemen said, how about a restaurant? @somerville.slauson — an ode to the classic, artistic past of Black South Central L.A? And sure, the ambience will be fantastic, but the food and cocktails will keep you coming back," Rae shared in an Instagram post.
Somerville is a collaboration between Issa Rae and Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan, the founders of Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen, where Rae is also a partner, according to Black Enterprise. It is located in the same View Park-Windsor Hills retail complex as their original cafe, giving it a deep local connection. The space, which the duo initially passed on in 2015, now blends historic South-Central charm with modern flair.
Somerville is inspired by South LA's rich cultural history, particularly the era from 1921 to 1956 when Black musicians who were excluded from white-owned establishments performed in local venues like the Dunbar Hotel. This historic inspiration is reflected in the restaurant's design and its name, a nod to the hotel's original title, Hotel Somerville.
The menu, curated by chef Geter Atienza, features dishes like scallop crudo, duck confit, lamb shank, and collard green lasagna. Guests can also enjoy a selection of wines, beers, and specialty cocktails, while soaking in a relaxed, lounge-like atmosphere and live music.
Learn more about the restaurant via its official website SomervilleSlauson.com
Also, be sure to follow the restaurant on Instagram @Somerville.Slauson