Ben Hundreds Opens The Benjamin in Hollywood, Serving American Classics in a 1920s Art Deco Setting

By Kyra Greene

Ben Shenassafar, famously known as Ben Hundreds, is stepping into the restaurant scene after establishing his mark in streetwear with his brand, The Hundreds. His debut eatery, The Benjamin, is set to open in Los Angeles next week.

Nestled in a 1920s Art Deco building in Hollywood, The Benjamin promises an upscale twist on American classics. Shenassafar has brought together an impressive team for this venture, including Executive Chef Johnny Cirelle from Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, mixologist Nathan Oliver, culinary strategist Kate Burr, and bar proprietor Jared Meisler.

Chef Cirelle has crafted a refined menu featuring American staples like shrimp cocktails, chicken wings, and salads. A highlight is The Benjamin Burger, Shenassafar’s signature creation with hickory sauce, grilled onion, and house-made pickles. Other standout dishes include a Wagyu house strip and roasted branzino with red chimichurri. The dessert menu features delights like carrot cake and sticky toffee pudding.

Mixologist Nathan Oliver has designed an extensive bar menu with innovative twists on classic cocktails, all crafted with seasonal ingredients.

The Benjamin boasts a 58-seat dining room and a 15-seat bar, with staff dressed in uniforms by The Hundreds.

Though The Benjamin is Shenassafar’s first restaurant, he’s no newcomer to the culinary world, having hosted Tastemade’s cooking show Big Appetite.