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By Maya Mackey
Issa Rae’s reign continues! Somerville, her newest restaurant venture, opened November 22nd and it’s “an ode to the classic, artistic of Black South Central” in Issa’s own words. Located at 4437 W. Slauson Ave, it promises to serve as a luxurious lounge for the GROWN and SEXY crowd. Somerville came to creation by the minds of GVO (good vibes only) hospitality, L.A. Natives, Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan.
Somerville is definitely in line with Issa’s usual pricing (i.e. it’s for middle – upper class folks). I’m not sure that mocktails should ever cost a double-digit. It’s basically soda and juice. The Somerville burger cost a whopping $24. A hamburger y’all. However, some of the menu items certainly peak my interest–for example, the Chicoroy and Crab Salad or Braised Australian Lamb Shank.
Issa was inspired by the Black bourgeoisie in Los Angeles from the 40s and 50s, all the way into the 70s. The menu’s design, including the font style and colors let you know you’re entering a blast from the past. While Sommerville promises to be a place for all (literally written into their menu), Issa Rae continues to honor her commitment to Black people by selling wines that come from local vendors, Westwide Winos. The official Somerville drink menu claims that most of the wines are “founded by good friends who grew up in the neighborhood and still call it home.”
Somerville also plans to host events, so book your reservations for your company holiday party, birthday, or anniversary.
We salute Issa’s commitment to creating beautiful spaces for Black and Brown creatives to thrive and dine in. We hope Somerville is another success for her.
