Bougie Beverly Hills rooftop restaurant closes due to disgusting vermin infestation: ‘major violations’

The Roof Garden, once a chic rooftop escape perched above the Beverly Hills Peninsula Hotel, has temporarily closed its doors after the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health slapped it with a major violation for a rat infestation.

The restaurant’s culinary team prides itself on crafting dishes with fresh, hyper-local ingredients, highlighting herbs and vegetables plucked straight from the hotel’s own garden, according to the website.

But on April 18, the LA County Department of Public Health handed the restaurant several violations — the most serious being a vermin infestation and issues with access to hot and cold water, according to online records reviewed by The California Post.

Managing Director, Offer Nissenbaum, told The Post the kitchen was temporarily closed after health inspectors found a “small, single number of insects” in an area that services the outdoor restaurant.

“Prior to this inspection, we had already recently fumigated the area as part of our routine maintenance. Following the visit, we immediately escalated our efforts and are working meticulously with our professional pest control partners to ensure the entire premises, both indoors and outdoors, exceeds all health standards,” Nessenbaum said.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this causes and can reassure guests there will be no pause in service. Health, safety and hygiene standards remain our highest priority,” Nissenbaum added.

Health departments require 120°F water for dishwashing and 100°F water for handwashing to prevent bacterial growth and ensure proper sanitation. The establishment at 9882 S Santa Monica Boulevard also received minor violations for food-contact surface sanitation.

Meanwhile, the Peninsula Beverly Hills has carefully cultivated its 5-star reputation since welcoming guests to Los Angeles in 1991.

The establishment is recognized as the only hotel in Southern California to have earned both the AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star awards every year since 1993.

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Before its closure, The Roof Garden was a highly rated rooftop experience, boasting a 4.5 rating across most platforms—often described as a “hidden gem” above the city noise.

The restaurant has not yet announced when it will reopen, but online reservations show availability beginning Thursday, Apr. 23.

The California Post has reached out to the restaurant for comment.