HYPERION PUBLIC
NEIGHBORHOOD FAVES OFFER KILLER COMFORT FARE

A neighborhood favorite in Silver Lake and Studio City, the folks at Hyperion Public like to call themselves a restaurant and pub “by the people, for the people.” Democracy in action, the two locations have a thriving sports bar scene, as well as popular dining rooms that are often packed with guests enjoying generous portions of pleasing comfort food.

Founded by three friends who all met through their children when they were in preschool, Hyperion Public is a friendly, family affair and that’s the laidback vibe that exists at both locations. The menu has been described as approachable and innovative.

“We do not want to be a flash in the pan," says Executive Chef Paddy Aubrey. "I encourage my team to come to me with ideas for our menu. The number one rule: put a spin on it, make it unique to us.”

Call it elevated pub grub, innovative dishes include F Yeah Fries, as well as Oh My Goodness Dip. More than just a community pub, Hyperion Public, which serves $15 bottomless mimosas every day until 3pm, is no-longer a locals-only secret.

"It doesn't matter where you are from, you are here," says co-founder John K. Speaks who goes by “Speaks”. "It does not matter if you do not know anyone. Pull up a chair and within five minutes you are going to make a friend.”

After visiting the original Silver Lake location for drinks looking out onto the scene on Hyperion Avenue, I was taken by the vibrant, energetic scene at the Studio City location. Starting dinner off with cocktails, I found the Build-A-Buck (your choice of vodka, gin, rum, bourbon or tequila with ginger beer and fresh lime juice) refreshing and easy-going. Likewise, The Hot Mezcal with Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, angostura aromatic bitters, habanero tincture, and lime juice was a very nice hot and spicy cocktail.

Recommended starter items from the Beginnings section of the menu, which are meant to be a fun, shared experience, you can’t go wrong with the tasty Avocado Fries or the decadent and delicious Truffle Mac & Cheese—an instant favorite. Consider the F Yeah Fries served with Chef Paddy’s signature Oh My Goodness Dip and Applewood smoked bacon a must-have item. And if you get the Spicy Blueberry Wings with house-made ranch or blue cheese, well, you will not be sorry.

If you want some “greens” then get the Brussels Sprout Cobb from the Salad sections. A mix of crispy Brussels sprouts, chopped egg, cherry tomatoes, Applewood bacon, crumbled blue cheese and balsamic reduction, this salad is excellent. Even if you’re not specifically looking for a salad, I highly recommend this solid winner.

Recently, I wrote about the Best Fried Chicken Sandwiches in L.A. and while the C.W.A. (Chicken With Attitude) wasn’t in contention to make the list, the sandwich, a toppling tower of fried chicken breast, crispy onions, bacon coleslaw, toasted jalapeños, sliced dill and BBQ blue cheese dressing is a filling favorite among regulars.

My entrees pick is the Gen. Tso’s Uncle Riki’s Fish as it was flavorful and extremely delicious. A winning combination of seared market fish, General Tso’s sauce, crispy black rice salad, and grilled lemon baby bok choy, I can go for another helping right now!

If you save room for dessert, you can’t go wrong with the heavenly Salted Caramel Pie with vanilla bean whipped cream or the divine Mexican Chocolate Puddin’ Pie with Mexican chocolate pudding, cheesecake, whipped cream and graham cracker crust. Yes, these are overindulgent but exactly what you want when you order dessert on a night out. Go for it!

Hyperion Public Silver Lake, located at 2538 Hyperion Avenue, is open from Monday through Wednesday from 12pm to 10pm; Thursday and Friday from 12pm to 11pm; Saturday 9am to 11pm and Sunday 9am to 11pm. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm. Call 323-761-6440. 

Hyperion Public Studio City, located at 12969 Ventura Boulevard, is open from Monday through Thursday from 12pm to 10pm; Friday 12pm - 11pm; Saturday 10am to 11pm; Sunday 10am to 10pm. Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 3pm. Call 818-464-3750. 

Story by Jose Martinez

Photography By: Acuna-Hansen