Derek Berry has certainly found his niche in the hospitality industry, specializing in pop culture (and typically nostalgia-tinged) themed pop-up restaurants. His projects have been inspired by the likes of 90210‘s Peach Pit, Breaking Bad, and, most famously, Saved by the Bell. According to Food and Wine, that latter “Saved by the Max” restaurant proved so popular it traveled around the country. For his latest project, Berry is diving into a similar era of classic television in the hopes of replicating that huge hit: a Golden Girls pop-up restaurant.
Slated to open in Beverly Hills this July, the “Golden Girls Kitchen” promises to be “a fully functioning restaurant and bar that transports guests the moment they walk through the doors and into the world of this endearing fan favorite.” And importantly, the fast casual concept — which will have a focus on desserts — is officially licensed by the show itself, making for a truly authentic experience. “Bringing Golden Girls to life has always been a dream of mine,” explained Berry, who is launching the kitchen through the events platform Bucket Listers where he serves as director of experiences. “Our team is confident that both die hard fans of the show and first timers alike will leave with a deeper appreciation for the show’s lasting legacy.”
Attending the pop-up will require tickets, which will sell for $50 a pop, but comes with a reserved seat, a guaranteed dining window, a choice of an entree, and cheesecake. Additional items will be sold a la carte — and if you prefer to dine while watching reruns from the comfort of your own couch, you can even order for local delivery. As for the food, The Golden Girls Kitchen will serve items like Sophia’s Lasagna (meat or vegan), The Dorothy: A Miami Style Sandwich, and Blanche’s Georgia Style Cookies — though organizers say “local chef collaborations” will also occasionally land on the menu. Meanwhile, the full beverage menu will offer drinks such as Tea Arthur and Rose on Rosé.
That said, the key to the experience is the venue itself and the Instagram-worthy photos that hopefully come with it. “Cozy up to the kitchen table, grab some sun on the lanai, or snap a selfie in front of everyone’s favorite palm print,” Bucket Listers writes. “Take a spin through Shady Pines on your way to the popup store featuring an exclusive range of brand new Golden Girls merchandise, not available anywhere else.” Finally, throughout the pop-up’s run, the Golden Girls Kitchen promises other surprises like special events, panels, and additional merch drops.
Tickets aren’t available yet, but the event is already up on the Bucket Listers website where interested fans can join a waiting list for notification of when they go on sale.
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Photo Credit: Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com