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Photo: Courtesy of Romanov
Mikayel Israyelyan, owner of West Hollywood hotspot Republic, has opened the palatial Romanov on a nondescript stretch of Ventura Boulevard. The churchly onion domes and arched windows belie the decadence within: Walk through the red glass doors to an elevator that opens to a spacious dining room and lounge filled with rich tapestries, mahogany furniture, red walls, hand-blown glass wall sconces, and chandeliers dripping with crystals.

Live performers take the small stage every night, and the bar features more than 200 imported vodkas. The menu combines Russian favorites like blinis and quail Kiev with steakhouse fare (prime rib, steaks, Niman Ranch pork chops). The Russian tea service with decorative urns and fruit-flavored preserves is a special treat. The secluded private Library Room has bookshelves filled with Russian literature, an ornate fireplace, a plasma TV, a 24-karat-gold-leaf ceiling, and hand-carved chairs. It holds 10 for seated events or 30 for receptions with the adjacent patio.