Poised to become the best new steakhouse in the area, The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse in the Langham Huntington hotel is off to a sizzling start.

Last Tuesday April 9, the still-mostly-white-in-decor restaurant officially opened its grill to the public with an event attended by over 150, each of them curious to explore the eatery’s new direction.

Food and Beverage Director Vern Lakusta welcomed everyone and introduced Chef Anthony Zappola and restaurant manager Matt Nathanson.

Chef Anthony Zappola describes the new restaurant as “more casual, friendly and inviting to the hotel guests and the regulars.”

Beef Carpaccio and Steak Tartare were served in the Red Wine Room and the kitchen was open for guests to walk in and sample various cuts of steak, including the signature wagyu tomahawk, and a number of side dishes.

In the dessert area, the chef’s table was bedecked with a smorgasbord of sweets that included fried honey beignets, maple brioche bread pudding, and chocolate layered mousse cake.

Of course, steak and dessert wouldn’t be complete without drinks. Wine and champagne were also served together with passed appetizers.

Unlike the usual hotel restaurant where people visit once a year as an “occasional restaurant”, The Royce is described by Zappola as a place you and your family can go back to once a week or once a month.

“We want people to feel comfortable returning time and time again, getting the same quality, getting things that are easy to understand, and more straightforward,” says Zappola.

It’s all “product-driven, we’re not skimping on product; we’re buying the best product we possibly can and cooking it very simple,” Zappola explains.

To find out more about The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse and to book reservations, visit www.roycela.com or call (626) 585-6410.