A Comprehensive Guide to the Restaurants Featured on Vanderpump Rules
Since the premiere of Vanderpump Rules on Bravo in 2013, Lisa Vanderpump’s various O.C. restaurants have been integral to the show’s most riveting storylines. Viewers first got a glimpse of the cast’s lives while they worked at these Los Angeles hotspots, with SUR being one of the most prominent establishments.
The journey of these reality stars has seen many evolve from bartenders and waitresses to business moguls, yet Vanderpump’s restaurants have consistently remained central to the drama. Some former staff members even launched their own culinary ventures, frequently seeking Vanderpump’s expertise. However, as personal dramas unfolded, they occasionally impacted the financial health of these establishments. A prime example occurred in March 2023, when Tom Sandoval’s public breakup with Ariana Madix, attributed to his affair with Raquel Leviss, sent ripples through his professional life. Following the scandal, patrons increasingly turned away from Schwartz & Sandy’s, a bar co-owned by Sandoval and his friend Tom Schwartz. Their other venture, TomTom, which was also born out of Vanderpump’s guidance, faced similar scrutiny.
Here’s an overview of the notable restaurants featured on Vanderpump Rules over the years:
Villa Blanca: This once-popular restaurant specializing in Mediterranean cuisine was a starting point for several cast members. Unfortunately, Villa Blanca closed its doors in 2020 after over ten years in operation.
SUR: Opening in 1998, this lounge became a cultural phenomenon due in large part to its portrayal on Vanderpump Rules. The show highlighted the lives of its staff members, including notable personalities such as Stassi Schroeder and Jax Taylor. As of now, only a few, like Peter Madrigal and Charli Burnett, continue to work there.
Pump Restaurant: Following the success of Villa Blanca and SUR, Vanderpump expanded her restaurant empire with Pump, which launched in 2014. After nearly a decade, Pump closed in July 2023 but reimagined itself as a brunch venue associated with TomTom shortly after.
TomTom: This trendy bar debuted in 2018 through a collaboration between Vanderpump and her husband, Ken Todd, along with Sandoval and Schwartz. It features a menu filled with creative cocktails and seasonal dishes.
Schwartz & Sandy’s: Fans got a behind-the-scenes look at the launch of this establishment during seasons 9 and 10 of the show. After overcoming various hurdles, Sandoval and Schwartz opened Schwartz & Sandy’s in 2022, though they announced plans for its closure by the end of 2024.
Vanderpump à Paris: Inspired by Parisian elegance, this restaurant became the backdrop for some dramatic moments during season 10. It gained attention when Miloney and friends dined there, partly due to a connection with Garcelle Beauvais’ son, who serves at the restaurant.
Something About Her: A much-anticipated sandwich shop by Katie Maloney and Ariana Madix, this establishment was fueled by their success in merchandise post-Scandoval, raising significant funds for their venture ahead of its expected summer 2023 opening.
Wolf by Vanderpump: Season 11 offered glimpses into this upcoming Lake Tahoe spot, which promises hand-crafted drinks and a unique aesthetic, set to debut in winter 2024.
Pinky’s: Nestled within the Flamingo on the Las Vegas Strip, Pinky’s aims to offer a retro vibe with a drink menu that highlights an extensive martini selection.
As we assess the landscape of Vanderpump Rules, it’s clear that the intertwining of personal stories and business ventures has significantly shaped not only the cast’s lives but also the success of these restaurants.