Last April, I wrote about the opening of Royal/T art space and maid cafe in Culver City, CA. I vowed that I would dine here by the end of the summer. Well, it took me a bit longer… but I can now check this item off my list!

After visiting and photographing so many cosplay cafes for my Theme Restaurants book, the “novelty” of being waited on by a French maid seemed perfectly normal to me. But unlike in Akihabara, the gallery space is vast – high wood beam ceilings, elephantine glass windows – and dotted with works by my favorite contemporary Japanese artists (Takashi Murakami, Yoshitomo Nara). One of the walls held blow-ups street snaps from Phaidon’s Gothic & Lolita lookbook, which held its release party at Royal/T. Perhaps I shall do the same…

You simply must visit for yourself to experience the Zen-like space and the delectable dishes. Avocado on toast, ponzo salmon with edamame, and French toast served by an adorable cosplay maid… what more can one ask for? How about a second pot of the signature rose and soymilk tea?

Once you’re fed, you can grab some kawaii design objects as stocking stuffers. Similar to Kid Robot, the official store sells vinyl toys, prints, and plush figures inspired by anime character design. If I had a Christmas tree this year, I too would hang it with Hello Kitty heads and top it with an Okamoto tiger.

The recently-opened Valley of the Dolls shop sells Blythes and Pullip dolls (including the h.NAOTO ones). Some fanatics dress up like their dolls and ask the maids to speak to them like human beings… kinda creepy.

Bring your camera – Royal/T is the perfect space for a photoshoot. I love the private tea room with neo-Baroque/Rococo/Goth furniture straight out of my Interior Design Week. The current exhibit, “All of This is Melting Away” (united by the theme of transformation and disappearance), runs until December 31st. If you’re ever in Los Angeles, come by for afternoon tea – the cheery maids will make you feel like Marie Antoinette!