The plywood has come down at 8445 Santa Monica Boulevard, revealing the exterior of a new project next door to Barney’s Beanery. Permit filings indicate the space is being developed as a hybrid concept—combining a restaurant with a high-end market—similar in format to other grocery-plus-dining models around Los Angeles—most notably, Erewhon.
Laurel Hardware, which opened in 2012, is a well-known West Hollywood restaurant with a focus on seasonal dishes and cocktails. This new project appears to be an expansion of the brand, though no official announcement has been made.
According to remarks from TikTok observer @sethonthescene, who recently reviewed permit details onsite, the business may be intended to compete with nearby venues like Erewhon, which also blend casual dining with grocery or prepared foods.
Why It’s Generating Interest:
Visibility – The space sits next to a long-established local business and receives steady foot traffic along a high-profile stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard.
Concept – The hybrid market-restaurant model has grown in popularity across Los Angeles and appears to be part of that ongoing trend.
Existing Brand – Laurel Hardware has an established following and this new location may serve as a daytime or complementary extension.
Seth’s transcript captures some of the early speculation:
“It’s Seth on the scene… the facade of the building. She’s quite a stunner.”
“According to this permit, it’s definitely going to be a restaurant… maybe it’s going to compete directly with Erewhon.”
Still unknown:
Name and Branding – The current signage says “Laurel Hardware and Supply”. It’s unclear whether this will operate under the Laurel Hardware name or launch as a distinct concept. Insiders say they may rebrand with a new name for this concept.
Menu and Interior – Details about the food, layout, or design have not been released.
Opening Date – Permit records suggest late 2024 or early 2025, but no timeline has been confirmed.
What’s next:
We’ll continue monitoring city filings for updates on inspections, permits, and any license activity. Once the buildout progresses, more information about the interior and operating model should become available.
For now, the space appears to be nearing completion from the outside, and the project has already drawn interest from nearby residents and passersby.
For those who don’t know: This building is former site of the Ritts Co. furniture store run by the parents of late, great photographer Herb Ritts – later it was the home of the Hollywood Stock Exchange online company.
From the article it sounds like A.I. has joined WehoOnline as its newest “paperboy”……
RIP human generated content?!
I hope the market will be as competitively priced like Erewhon. Lets hope they keep the smoothie prices down in the $30-$40 range.
I thought the building was scheduled for demolition? Did that project fall through like so many have?
Please stop with the out dated press releases that you do not read prior to publication. Also the original Laural Hardware is at Laurel and Santa Monica Blvd., not two doors down from this new project at Halloway and Olive. Your lack of concern for facts is beyond annoying at this point. Read what you print.
Right on, Dean! Stay sharp — someone’s gotta hold them accountable!
Yes, thank you.
The homeless shelter denizens harassing pooping screeching the clientele will make this a special location
Late 2024 or early 2025???