Featured Photo By Bravo TV
Whether you are a Vanderpump Rules fan or just looking for a unique place to dine in at, Schwartz and Sandy’s, is calling your name. Co-owners “Tom and Tom” are shorthand for the very recognizable duo of beloved bartenders turned reality stars, Tom Schwartz and Tom Sandoval. This pair of entertaining, well-dressed, and very amusing best friends made their big splash on Bravo TV’s Vanderpump Rules, where fans got to grow up alongside watching them navigate their own relationships and saw their bromance blossom into the launching of their own TomTom Bar and Restaurant in West Hollywood, where mentor Lisa Vanderpump helped guide them take their dreams and shape them into a successful LA hot spot.
When we heard about their newest restaurant Schwartz and Sandy’s, slated to open in the hip and central Franklin Village area, we couldn’t wait to show up and see our favorite Tom’s in action. It’s located next to the super cute gourmet market, The Oaks, and right across the street from Gelson’s. The best part is there is plenty of free street parking available (shocking because it’s LA!), but be sure you leave some time to find it and possibly walk a block or two. Follow along to dive right in and get the inside scoop on the new and hip cocktail lounge and restaurant in Franklin Village!
First Look: The Atmosphere
Let’s start off with the remarkable decor! Picture the living room of a family member who collects the finest antiques, loves unique color combinations, and somehow it all works together. Jewel-toned leopard wallpaper, jaguar figurines, kitschy lamps, and framed pictures of goats. It has so many post-worthy corners and crevices, including the well-lit and retro modern bathroom that would be perfect for your “Night Out” story post. It’s super fun and modern, yet has a touch of Palm Springs meets Hollywood Regency atmosphere. Much like the Tom’s themselves, there’s a touch of humor mixed with professionalism and pristine taste in the space. The lighting is moody, with large elegant fixtures above the booth seating. Be sure to snap some pics with their bright neon to elevate your selfie game.
As you walk in, the staff is super friendly, and on both of the busy nights we went, they seemed to have their system down to get everyone seated as soon as possible. We recommend reaching out before for a reservation and just being prepared for a packed place if you go on a weekend night. On any given night, you will see other celebrities (we saw the beautiful Vanderpump Star, Ariana), Los Feliz locals, or tourists. The Tom’s are known to make an appearance quite often and are very much down for a photo and hello meet and greet moment with their fans and patrons.
Eclentic Cocktail Menu
Two words to describe the cocktail menu are super inventive and creative. With over 8 curated cocktails, there is sure to be one that catches your eye. We ordered the Baby Shark, which is a super beautiful blue drink featuring agave, elderflower, fresh lime, and coconut complimenting the tequila. The Fresh Start was also just what we needed for a late-night boost, as it has a base of green tea and cucumber juice for extra hydration and a little kick of energy. Depending on your liquor of choice, they can whip up some intricate yet fun-spirited drinks to kick off your night. If cocktails aren’t your thing, opt in to order one of their tasty choices from the beer and wine selection.
The Fresh Start – Photo By – Schwartz and Sandy’s
Comfort Food with a Twist
The food menu reflects the eclectic nature of the restaurant’s decor, and you can tell the Tom’s and kitchen staff take pride in delivering a funky experimental twist on traditions we know and love. A few of the stand-outs from the night include the Lobster Corn Dogs, featuring house-made lobster sausage with sweet corn batter and tangy curry mustard. The Roasted Golden Beet Carpaccio is a beautiful light and fresh option, and we also loved the Juicy Lucy Sliders, with homemade American cheese providing an ooey gooey melt inside the slider meat. The Chicken and Waffle Bites are super fun to share with a date, and we could tell the menu included items to pay homage to Sandoval and Schwartz’s midwest roots. For dessert, consider the Warm Brown Butter Strawberry “Schwartz” cake with an espresso martini. Think of this menu as comfort food but elevated to match the foodie trends soaring through Los Angeles. Yum!
Roasted Golden Beet Carpaccio – Photo By – Schwartz and Sandy’s
Meet The Team
Teaming up with the Vanderpump star duo are co-owners Greg and Jolane, who own and operate a handful of LA’s best and busiest restaurants. We asked owners Greg Morris and his wife/co-head honcho, Jolane Rae, how they feel about partnering with the Toms and all the buzz about Schwartz and Sandy’s. They replied, “We’re super excited to have a fresh, fun, new lounge and vibe in the Franklin Village neighborhood.” Manager Brett added that this is a place where everyone is welcome. The dress code is business casual, but S&S doesn’t take itself too seriously (plus, it’s LA, so anything goes!).
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Experience this swanky lounge for yourself and discover why it just may become your newest LA hangout spot! For more restaurant inspo, check out our 10 favorite picks for outdoor dining in Los Angeles.
