VERSE, a groundbreaking venue that blends culinary artistry with cutting-edge sound technology, recently opened in Toluca Lake. The restaurant offers an eclectic menu that reflects Los Angeles' diverse cultural landscape, paired with an innovative acoustic system, creating an immersive dining experience where sound plays a central role.
The Team Behind VERSE
VERSE is spearheaded by renowned Chef Paul Shoemaker, known for his work at Providence and Bastide, Managing Partner Rob Ciancimino of The Sayers Club, and eight-time Grammy award-winning sound mixer Manny Marroquin, owner of the neighboring Larrabee Studios. This talented team has crafted an experience that combines top-tier cuisine with a state-of-the-art Meyer Sound system, enhancing the auditory ambiance of the space.
Design and Atmosphere
The 3,800-square-foot restaurant features a 140-seat dining area, with a 10-seat chef's table located inside the kitchen. The design, curated by Kimberly Biehl Schmidt of Larrabee Studios, includes serene jewel-toned green, blue, and clay velvet chairs and booths, inspired by Renaissance paintings. Artwork by Brian Bowen Smith adorns the walls, and custom graphic designs by Laurent Newman disguise functional Libra sound panels, adding a dreamy, nature-inspired aesthetic.
The space also includes a striking bookcase filled with vintage volumes and custom elements by Meyghan Hill of (Wh)ore Haüs Studios, such as a leather strap-studded host stand and a sculptural fixture over the bar.
Culinary and Beverage Offerings
The menu at VERSE features local ingredients and includes dishes like the Edible Cocktail with champagne on ice, olive oil caviar, and brown butter dime bag, Amberjack Crudo, Maine Lobster Bolognese, and American Wagyu Short Rib. Desserts like Icey Pops and Pool Of Tears Apple Pie offer a sweet conclusion to the meal.
The beverage program, curated by Matthew Kaner, includes a thoughtfully selected wine list and classic craft cocktails. Tableside drinks like the Smoked Old Fashioned and a traditional absinthe drip presentation add a theatrical element to the dining experience.
Innovative Acoustic Experience
Manny Marroquin's expertise transforms the restaurant into an acoustic haven, featuring the largest installation of Libra acoustic panels in the world, an SSL mixing console, and 60 Meyer Sound Constellation system speakers. This system allows for the creation of unique acoustic environments, making VERSE the only restaurant in Southern California with this capability.
A Vision for the Future
Marroquin envisions VERSE as a cultural hub that seamlessly integrates cuisine, music, art, and hospitality. The restaurant launched alongside the 50th anniversary of Larrabee Studios, one of the top recording and mixing facilities in the world.
VERSE Details
