Zaytinya

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Where the Eastern Mediterranean Meets Culver City

Zaytinya, the celebrated Mediterranean concept from José Andrés Group, brings the flavors of Turkey, Greece, and Lebanon to 8801 Washington Blvd in Culver City — inside The Shay hotel. The menu is built around mezze, the convivial small-plates tradition that turns a meal into something shared and unhurried.

The Food and the People Behind It

Head Chef Holly Jivin leads the kitchen, translating the Eastern Mediterranean pantry into dishes that range from spreads like hommus and baba ghannouge to wood-fired kebabs and whole grilled fish. The approach is rooted in the culinary traditions of the region — honest ingredients, live fire, and preparations that have been refined over centuries. General Manager Meg Muller oversees the dining room, keeping the experience grounded and attentive.

A Wine List Worth Noting

The beverage program has earned Zaytinya Culver City a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 2025 — recognition that reflects a genuinely considered approach to the list. Regional Mediterranean producers sit alongside modern favorites, chosen to complement the bright, herb-forward character of the food rather than compete with it.

The Broader Picture

Zaytinya operates across multiple cities, but the Culver City location has quickly carved out its own identity in the Los Angeles dining conversation, drawing notice from the Los Angeles Times, Eater LA, and The Infatuation among others. The Mediterranean format — flexible, social, suited to both a quick dinner and a long table — translates naturally to the West Coast. Whether you're new to mezze or know exactly what you're after, the kitchen gives you plenty of reasons to linger.