Amidst the eclectic energy of Sunset Boulevard, a fusion of culinary dreams and creativity thrives. Trae Meyer-Whalley and Simon Pompan, the visionaries behind Galerie On Sunset, have decided to refresh the restaurant space when dining has become increasingly transactional. The new restaurant on Sunset Boulevard is inspired by both 70s rock music and Classic Hollywood aesthetics, featuring a checkerboard tile design that sparkles and pays homage to both styles. With burgundy leather booths and a soundtrack spanning from the 60s to the 80s, Galerie is not merely a restaurant, but a time capsule that evokes a sense of intimacy and occasion. 

Inviting guests to step into a time capsule and experience culinary offerings by Chef Gabriel Lindsey, Meyer-Whalley and Pompan,they highlight the importance of personal connection and nurturing emerging talents within his burgundy booths. With a vision that encompasses sensuality, artistry, and intentionality, striving to revive the enchanting evenings of yesteryear that leave a lasting impression long after the last bite.

Below, Meyer-Whalley shares his vision with us, discussing how Galerie seeks to unite the excitement of the past with the vibrancy of the present, crafting an unforgettable dining experience.

How did its 1970s glam-rock history and classic Hollywood legacy shape the emotional tone you envisioned for a night at Galerie? ‍

We did not design Galerie as a literal tribute to glam rock, but rather as a space that captures the spirit of that era, inspired by the places the icons of this period actually hung out. Being on the Sunset Strip, we wanted to pay homage to a historic area that these icons actually lived through and imagined a room where they would feel at home, sitting in burgundy leather booths, smoking a cigarette on the patio, with a soundtrack rooted in the 60s, 70s, and 80s that feels sexy and vibey while still building energy as the night unfolds. Our opening art exhibition leans punk and rebellious, with subtle nods to vintage 70s rock band flyers that feel authentic to the time. The vintage analog photo booth with its concealing curtain adds intimacy and a bit of mischief, giving guests a physical keepsake that feels personal.

Classic Hollywood shaped the polish of the space. The checkerboard tile references old Hollywood, but we picked a shinier finish with a subtle sparkle that nods to the glam side of rock. As the night progresses, the lighting drops, and during our nightlife period, the room is lit almost entirely by a single disco ball, creating a moody, cinematic glow that feels true to the era’s sense of drama and sensuality. That period in music was defined by theatricality, bold self-expression, and artists who fused fashion and sound into one decadent identity, redefining what was magnetic and culturally powerful. Ultimately, Galerie draws from those nuances to create an environment that feels sexy, romantic, and timeless, designed for guests who value style and atmosphere just as much as the culinary experience. 

What about classic Hollywood feels necessary to revive in our present moment? 

What feels necessary to revive from classic Hollywood right now is the sense of intention. There was a level of care in how people dressed, how rooms were lit, and how evenings unfolded that made going out feel meaningful rather than disposable. It was less about instant visibility and more about presence and mystique.

For us, another important piece is the relational aspect of that era. Hospitality was built on familiarity, not pay-to-play barriers. In a moment where memberships often dictate access, we are more interested in cultivating a clientele through personal relationships and a strong point of view. By telling a clear story and leaning into art, fashion, music, and entertainment, we naturally attract a like-minded crowd without requiring a bought membership as the common denominator. The goal is to build genuine repeat guests who feel known and connected to the space.

Old Hollywood also carried a certain magic because of its proximity to celebrity and creative ambition. We strive to be a home for young actors, musicians, and creatives, creating a room where emerging talent and all our guests can coexist. Ultimately, it is about restoring a sense of occasion and connection, making a night out feel elevated, intimate, and worth remembering.

 What aspects of French and American dining do you think work best together, and how do you see that play out at Galerie? 

Much of classic American dining is rooted in French technique, so the two naturally go hand in hand. For us, American dining was the starting point because of its comfort, approachability, and the power of recognizable staples done well. In a hospitality landscape that can feel chaotic and a broader financial climate where guests are more thoughtful about spending, we believe people gravitate toward food that is satisfying, simple, and straightforward, rather than overly intricate for the sake of it. Flavor should always take precedence over complication.

The French influence steps in to elevate those classics, adding refinement and a touch of decadence so the dishes still feel special. It is less about making things fussy and more about applying technique, flavor, and restraint to enhance what people already love. That French element also mirrors the sensuality of the room itself, bringing a layer of elegance and allure that complements the design and atmosphere. The result is food that feels comforting at its core, but special and elevated in execution.

The programming feels deeply intentional. How do you decide which artists or musicians feel like a natural fit for Galerie?

On Thursdays, we showcase the same jazz band each week because they embody the balance Galerie strives for. They blend classic standards with modern songs reinterpreted in a soulful jazz style, reflecting our larger mix of nostalgia and contemporary culture. They regularly invite guest band members who each bring their own distinct style and creative perspective, which keeps the performances evolving and reinforces the artistic environment we aim to foster. Just as importantly, they interact with guests, pass the mic, and make the experience feel immersive rather than staged.

For DJs on weekends, the priority is not a specific genre but their ability to create a fun environment that resonates with the unique mix of guests in the room each night. We gravitate toward DJs who can read the floor intuitively and draw people into dancing. We rarely direct what they play, and guests typically arrive not knowing what genre of music to expect. The dinner playlists already have all the sexy and cool music you can want. After 11 pm, the energy shifts and the focus turns fully toward dancing, creating a dark, intimate atmosphere where guests can truly let go. In a nightlife moment where many feel the culture of dancing has faded, we intentionally dim the room, set the disco ball in motion, and foster an environment where people feel comfortable moving freely.