Celebrating a Century of Hospitality
As Hotel Figueroa marks its 100th anniversary in 2026, it proudly unveils its latest culinary gem: Florence by the Water. This elegant Mediterranean dining destination officially opens on February 13, bringing a fresh yet timeless experience to Downtown Los Angeles. Rooted in tradition and crafted for the modern diner, this new concept enhances the hotel’s already impressive food and beverage program while honoring its rich history of creativity and cultural exchange.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence
Florence by the Water is the brainchild of a talented team, including Francesco Zimone, Executive Chef Giuseppe Gentile, and the culinary visionaries behind the acclaimed Florence Osteria and L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. The latter is an iconic Neapolitan establishment that dates back to 1870 and has now found a home in the U.S. with utmost respect for its culinary heritage.
At Florence by the Water, the focus broadens from traditional Italian cuisine to embrace the diverse flavors of the Mediterranean. This new dining experience reflects the hotel’s commitment to both quality and authenticity, inviting guests to indulge in dishes that celebrate regional ingredients.
Signature Dishes and Seasonal Flavors
Under the expert guidance of Chef Gentile, the menu at Florence by the Water is designed to be both approachable and sophisticated. Guests can start their culinary journey with small plates known as cicchetti, such as:
- Whipped Ricotta drizzled with harissa honey
- Gnocco Fritto filled with stracciatella and 24-month prosciutto di Parma
Moving on to antipasti, diners can savor:
- Gamberi topped with Calabrian chili herb oil and lemon
The menu also features an array of skewers and grilled dishes that reflect the Mediterranean ethos—cooked simply and finished with high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs. Handmade pastas are a highlight, with options including:
- Fettuccine al Tartufo finished with shaved black truffle
- Linguine Aglio e Olio with scampi tartare and preserved Meyer lemon
For the main course, guests can indulge in:
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina
- Whole Mediterranean branzino with Meyer lemon herb relish
Each dish is carefully crafted using high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients that honor culinary tradition.
A Thoughtful Beverage Program
The beverage offerings at Florence by the Water beautifully complement the dining experience. The program is rooted in the culture of aperitivo, featuring modern cocktail creations. Signature cocktails include:
- Il Postino: A refreshing spritz-style cocktail with aperitif, prosecco, and fresh strawberries
- Maldini: A savory concoction of gin, olive vermouth, basil oil, and gorgonzola-stuffed olives
The wine list spans the Mediterranean and beyond, ensuring a curated selection to pair with every dish. Additionally, the non-alcoholic program features spirit-free aperitifs and seasonal mocktails, catering to every guest’s preference.
A Vibrant Atmosphere
Florence by the Water is not just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant gathering space that reflects the social fabric of Hotel Figueroa. The refined interiors are complemented by an inviting atmosphere, seamlessly connecting the dining experience with the hotel’s oasis pool. Live music performances add a lively rhythm to the dining room, echoing the convivial spirit of Florence itself.
Looking Toward the Future
The opening of Florence by the Water symbolizes a forward-looking moment in the history of Hotel Figueroa. It builds on a legacy of connection, cultural storytelling, and vibrant community. Whether guests are celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a leisurely meal, or discovering this culinary destination during their stay, Florence by the Water invites them to partake in the hotel’s next century of hospitality.
Florence by the Water will be open Tuesday-Thursday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 5 PM to midnight. Reservations can be made via OpenTable. To know more, visit the Florence by the Water website and follow them on social media @florencebythewater.
Your Thoughts Matter!
As Florence by the Water opens its doors, we invite you to share your thoughts and experiences. Have you dined at this new destination? What dishes caught your eye? Leave a comment below!
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral. Politz is also the founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
