Jessica Biel opens LA restaurant Au Fudge as a 'unique wonderland' for all the family
by Kim Megson | 10 Mar 2016
Hollywood star Jessica Biel and a consortium of stylists, writers, entrepreneurs and philanthropists have opened a family-friendly dining and creative space close to Los Angeles’ design district.
The restaurant, called Au Fudge, is described by its developers as “an all-inclusive culinary, social and visual oasis for adults and children to equally enjoy as their home away from home.”
The child-friendly design is intended to create “a unique wonderland”, complete with fantastical bookcases, secret doors, old wooden floors, hidden corners and brightly-coloured vintage decorations, all of which combine to “create cherished memories that result from a shared dining experience.”
The 4,200sq ft (390sq m) building features a creative space where children can have fun in a safe environment chaperoned by professional Au Pairs.
“My journey with Au Fudge began long before I became a mother,” said Biel, who has a son with singer and actor Justin Timberlake. “I first approached this business from the perspective of what someone without kids would want in their favourite restaurant. It’s been amazing to come full circle and appreciate all the ancillary activities we've now integrated for children.
“Finally, there is a place where you can go - regardless of being single, married, or having a family in tow.”
Stylist and designer Estee Stanley, who is a partner on the project, added: "The goal was to create a fun, hip, delicious spot that appeals to everyone. We saw a hole in the marketplace for fine dining, premium experiences that don't exclude people who happen to have children. Everyone will have fun here.”
Au Fudge also features an outdoor dining area, a space for film screenings and a marketplace where guests can purchase takeaway meals, coffee and souvenirs created by local artists.
The restaurant’s menu has been designed by executive chef James King, with a focus on providing an educational platform for young diners “who are just discovering their palates.”
Au Fudge is located on Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood – a popular shopping, dining and entertainment district.
Alongside Biel and Stanley, Au Fudge has been developed with the writer Kimberly Muller; the CEO of fitness company Barry’s Bootcamp, Joey Gonzalez; the CEO of food brand Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop, Jonathan Rollo; and philanthropist Monica Saunders-Weinberg.
A portion of the restaurant’s profits will be donated to local and national charities and community initiatives.
Jessica Biel Au Fudge LA Hollywood family restaurant design architecture
Stylist and designer Estee Stanley is a partner on the project and contributed to the design Credit: Au Fudge
The Au Fudge bar serves a variety of 'champagne, curated cocktails and fanciful mocktails' Credit: Au Fudge
Au Fudge has an outdoor dining area and an indoor marketplace Credit: Au Fudge
Hollywood actor Jessica Biel said Au Fudge us 'a place where you can go - regardless of being single, married, or having a family in tow' Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP
The restaurant contains fun props and games to create a memorable experience for diners Credit: Au Fudge
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Hollywood star Jessica Biel and a consortium of stylists, writers, entrepreneurs and philanthropists have opened a family-friendly dining and creative space close to Los Angeles’ design district. The restaurant, called Au Fudge, is described by its developers as “an all-inclusive culinary, social and visual oasis for adults and children to equally enjoy as their home away from home.” The child-friendly design is intended to create “a unique wonderland”, complete with
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