Power Up
Handshake Deals on a Beverly Hills Patio

Winter is cruel. For other people.

For you, on this sort of amazing 72-degree January day, it’s time to book a leisurely power dinner out on a lush Beverly Hills patio...

With apologies to the fine people of Maine.

Take a look at Livello, an indoor-outdoor home of veal, bourbon and handshake deals, opening Monday at L’Ermitage.

Hang a left through the lobby, and stroll through the suits in the lounge. If you’re early, sure, have a martini with Jason Segel. But eventually you’ll find your way to the totally redone restaurant just beyond—think walls of sycamore, abstract paintings and, beyond a towering curve of glass, a discreet patio completely hidden from the street.

Since you’re in L’Ermitage, you can expect a bit of an industry scene. So this is where to discuss the finer points of your upcoming stint at the Oscars (you’re presenting Best Talking Animal) over an Asian-Italian spread of sashimi and veal porterhouse with pickled cherry peppers. To drink: rounds of Off the Vines, made with bourbon, tomato and basil. (Basil: the deal-sealing-est herb.)

Of course, you’ll also see a fireplace and a waterfall out on that patio—so a date and a bottle of red are not exactly out of the question, either.

You’ve got a good feeling about Seat Filler #40.