While lolling in the Chateau lobby, sharing tapas at A.O.C., and chasing down another Hollywood Hills party, we had an epiphany.

Everyone’s searching for the perfect evening. But amid the velvet rope, the reservation hell, and the valet vitriol, where to find that at-home feeling without sacrificing the cool factor?

Dominick’s, deal makers’ haunt since 1948, has been redone in just the way you’re looking for. New owners Warner Ebbink and Brandon Boudet (101 Coffee Shop) have transformed the formerly dark interior into an open space with a marble bar, Thonet chairs, and red leather booths. Outside, fruit trees surround a family-style table (built by Warner) and brick fireplace.

Small plates make things even cozier: veal parmigiana; wood-grilled artichoke; whitefish picatta; and gnocchi with pecorino, tomato, and basil. Desserts include peaches stuffed with amaretto cookies and ricotta fritters with Nutella sauce. Best of all, the kitchen’s open late, and everything — from the infused grappa to the gelato — is made in-house.

A house, in fact, that seems destined to become home.

Dominick’s, 8715 Beverly Boulevard, between San Vicente and Robertson Boulevards (310-652-2335).