Ori Menashe

Bestia & Bavel - Los Angeles

Ori and his wife Genevieve were both born in the Los Angeles area–Genevieve was raised in Southern California, while Ori and his family moved to Israel where he spent his formative years.

Ori grew up traveling with his family and was exposed to fine dining across the globe, but it wasn’t until his year-long stay in South America, where he realized his passion for cooking. 

In 2001, Ori returned to Los Angeles and spent time in the kitchens of Pizzeria Mozza, All’ Angelo, and under chef Gino Angelini at Angelini Osteria, where he worked for four years as chef de cuisine.

In 2012, Ori and Genevieve pursued their dream of opening their first restaurant, Bestia and in 2018 their second restaurant, Bavel. In June, 2022, the team opened their third project, Saffy’s, named after Saffron, Ori and Genevieve’s daughter.