Nestled in central Culver City is the eponymous Culver Hotel, a timeless and historic establishment that has appeared in blockbuster films dating back to the mid 20th Century. Henry Culver and Charlie Chaplin co-built the hotel and The Culver has since housed stars like Greta Garbo, Clark Gable and Ronald Reagan. The Culver Hotel's rooms reflect the diverse guests who have stayed there over the years. While all suites are designed and decorated differently, the ambiance remains cohesive, an eclectic blend of all things chic and vintage. Hardwood floors, plush linens and soft robes make every room feel like a respite.

Beyond the luxury of its lodging, The Culver offers a range of amenities. Whether guests prefer to lounge on the patio, take in the live music offerings or engage in an early-morning workout at the 24-hour fitness center, there are plenty of opportunities for activities both within The Culver Hotel and beyond. Local coffee shops, boutiques, galleries and museums are a short walk from the hotel.

The Culver, itself, has live events and additional programming every week, including seasonal events like the upcoming Hip and Historic Halloween trick-or-treat and the glamorous Ghouls Night Out costume party. Considered one of the most romantic boutique hotels in the city, The Culver maintains extensive event spaces for private parties or weddings. The majority of the hotel's weekly events take place at Lillie's, The Culver's versatile, European-style restaurant on the ground floor.

An extension of The Culver's elegance, Lillie's offers multiple seating options and a variety of cuisines.

Lillie's brings European cafe culture to California, with its bistro offerings, alfresco seating options and live music. The restaurant's garden lounge offers a refined yet casual dining experience, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and a sophisticated spin on a happy hour, aptly titled "Garden Hour." Dinner faire evokes a night out in France with dishes like ratatouille and Branzino filet. Breakfast is the same, offering simple delicacies such as a brioche breakfast sandwich and pain au chocolat.

On the weekends, Lillie's invites guests for afternoon tea, though drinks are not limited to herbal blends. Sparkling wine and cocktails are staples, particularly when paired with the tea service's savory sandwiches and fresh scones. Mondays at Lillie's are specifically designated for guests at The Culver and private events. From Tuesday to Friday, the restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Afternoon tea is hosted on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with dinner hours starting promptly at 5.

We converged with Lillie's Chef Diana to ask her Who, What, When, Where, and Why.‍

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Who taught you how to cook and what is your earliest memory in the kitchen?

I learned to cook from my mom and all the amazing women in my family. Growing up Armenian, the kitchen was always buzzing with laughter and the smell of good food. One of my earliest memories is my mom handing me raw cake batter and a whisk while I sat under the kitchen table, happily licking the bowl clean. I think I was more focused on the batter than actually helping! Those moments sparked my love for cooking and showed me how special it is to gather around the dinner table. Now at The Culver Hotel, we keep that spirit of warmth and togetherness alive through our culinary offerings.

What's your favorite family dish when you were growing up?

My favorite family dish growing up was definitely xorovats—Armenian barbecue. There’s nothing quite like perfectly grilled meat hot off the charcoal grill, wrapped in soft lavash bread. The smell of the charcoal burning is so nostalgic, bringing back memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and stories. It’s a simple dish, but amazing in flavor and the experience it creates. At The Culver Hotel, we’re always looking to capture that same sense of connection through food, whether it’s with a comforting meal in the Lobby or a dish that brings people together.

What is your biggest satisfaction as a chef?

The greatest satisfaction comes from building a team and creating that special camaraderie in the kitchen. At The Culver Hotel, it’s all about fostering an environment where each team member grows in their skills and confidence. There’s a unique energy during busy service, and when I see my team enjoying their work and supporting each other, that’s what makes the long hours worth it. We’re more than just a kitchen—we’re a united team, working together to create memorable dining experiences for our guests.

What were the inspirations when you were creating the menu for Lillie's? And how does the Sober October Cocktail menu continue this ethos?

The menu at The Culver Hotel is inspired by a desire to celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that resonates with the hotel’s historic charm. The Sober October Cocktail menu reflects that ethos by focusing on vibrant, creative flavors that show you don’t need alcohol to enjoy a great drink. Each mocktail is crafted with the same care and attention to detail as our cocktails, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

What makes Lillie's special?

What makes The Culver Hotel unique is its ability to blend timeless elegance with a lively, contemporary feel. Nestled in the heart of Culver City, the hotel honors its rich history while offering fresh, innovative dining experiences. Our culinary approach stays rooted in classic flavors but incorporates seasonal, local ingredients, making each dish both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Whether guests are here for a special celebration or just a casual night out, The Culver Hotel offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that creates lasting memories. We’re all about bringing people together through great food, history, and charm.