Place

Perino’s (Demolished)

Paul Williams transformed a Thriftimart market into one of L.A.'s most renowned restaurants.

Place Details

Address

4101 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90010
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Property Type

Community

Noted architects Morgan, Walls, and Clements originally designed this building in the 1930s as a Thriftimart market. 

In 1950, Perino's restaurant moved to this location from 3927 Wilshire Boulevard. Architect Paul R. Williams transformed the building, giving it a graceful upswept mansard facade, a porte-cochere supported with wrought-iron flamingos, and a dignified and exquisite dining room.

Perino's became one of the city's most renowned restaurants. Proprietor Alex Perino demanded the freshest ingredients, catering to a cultured clientele in beautiful surroundings. Perino's was the scene of countless power lunches and hushed conversations between celebrities.

After attempts to revive the restaurant in 1986 failed, it was open only for private parties and filming. The restaurant was torn down in 2005 for apartments.

Marc Wanamaker/Bison Archives | Original location of Perino's at 3937 Wilshire Boulevard
Herman Schultheis, Security Pacific Collection/Los Angeles Public Library
Jim McHugh | c. 1930s.
Larry Underhill | Perino's
Larry Underhill