Issa Rae expands her entrepreneurial empire with Somerville, a new restaurant celebrating Black culture in South Central LA

ISSA Rae is adding another title to her growing list of entrepreneurial ventures: restaurateur. The actress, writer, producer, and mogul—already known for launching a production company, a coffee shop, a record label, and even a Prosecco collection—has opened Somerville, a new restaurant in South Central Los Angeles.

Rae shared the news of the restaurant's opening on November 26 via Instagram, giving fans an exclusive look at a private soft launch event. In her post, she reflected on the vision behind the project, one that’s deeply personal and rooted in her connection to the community.

"I always wanted a neighborhood lounge to complement the special community that is View Park-Windsor Hills," Rae wrote. "The genius GVO Gentlemen said, how about a restaurant? @somerville.slauson — an ode to the classic, artistic past of Black South Central L.A. And sure, the ambiance will be fantastic, but the food and cocktails will keep you coming back… I said: 🏃🏾‍♀️🍽️🍸🤤."

Nestled in the heart of View Park-Windsor Hills, Somerville is a love letter to the rich cultural tapestry of Black South Central L.A., offering patrons an elevated yet approachable space to indulge in fine dining while soaking in the area’s artistic and historic roots. 

The restaurant’s mission is clear: it’s “an ode to the past, a toast to the present, and a celebration of the progress in between.”

Rae is joined by her talented business partners, Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan, whose combined expertise has helped bring the vision of Somerville to life.

The menu at Somerville combines progressive American cuisine with a nod to the rich culinary traditions of South Central. Guests can indulge in shareable plates like shrimp cocktails, caviar, and fried chicken sliders, or enjoy entrees such as pan-seared ora king salmon, halibut, and braised Australian lamb shank. For sides, there’s everything from truffle fries to collard green lasagna and baked macaroni and cheese.

With this new restaurant, Rae continues to expand her footprint in the business world. Beyond her acting career, she’s proven herself to be a savvy entrepreneur, having launched a production company, a coffee shop, a record label, and even a Prosecco collection in recent years.