We write a lot about theme parks around here, but every once in a while, something unique pops up that feels like it was made just for theme park fans. That’s precisely the case with The Gallery, a brand-new bar and dinner show in Downtown Los Angeles that blends cutting-edge technology with immersive storytelling—crafted by some of the same minds behind spectacular projection shows at Disney and Universal parks.
Created by Allureum, a company co-founded by Chuck Fawcett and Daren Ulmer, The Gallery represents a bold new step in immersive dining. Through their other companies, such as Medici XD, Fawcett and Ulmer have worked on high-profile themed entertainment projects, including Disneyland’s Wondrous Journeys, Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After, and Universal’s Super Nintendo World. Now, they’re using their expertise to create high-tech, narrative-driven restaurants—starting with The Gallery.
And just like a great theme park attraction, this is more than just dinner. With projection-mapped environments, interactive tables, and a mysterious guide known as The Curator, The Gallery transforms an evening out into an evolving story.
Let’s step inside…
This article is based on both a hosted Elementa experience and separate paid visits to Horizon Lounge. All opinions expressed are entirely our own.
Horizon Lounge: The First Act of The Gallery Experience
Every visit to The Gallery begins in Horizon Lounge, an upscale bar that doubles as an introduction to the dinner show experience—or a standalone destination for those just looking for drinks and small bites.
The focal point of the lounge is a massive projection-mapped cityscape behind the bar, where meticulously filmed live-action scenes play out inside the windows of towering skyscrapers. These glimpses into city life create an ever-changing environment that subtly sets the stage for the experiences beyond.
For guests who aren’t seated at the bar, additional “peek-ins” are scattered around the lounge, offering more chances to catch surprising details. A private event space—designed with its own projection-mapped city views—is also open for exploration when not booked.
The Drinks & Dining at Horizon Lounge
While the visuals are a spectacle, the food and drink at Horizon Lounge stand on their own. Cocktails range from $18 to $20, and food items start at $16, with the most indulgent option being a ribeye steak for two at $85.
We tried Devil’s Gate, described as “a brew of sweet spices that include cinnamon and ginger, paired with the vanilla, toffee, and smoky notes of Johnnie Walker Scotch.”
Most of the dishes in each part of the Gallery are unique, but a few (like the dessert) are available in both. Allergies can be accommodated, just let your server know.
NOTE: A few days after our hosted Elementa visit, we found ourselves back at Horizon for dinner on our own, where the service team was incredibly friendly (and literally dancing to the music).
Elementa: The Interactive, Projection-Mapped Dinner Experience
Beyond Horizon Lounge lies Elementa, the true heart of The Gallery. This two-hour, five-course dinner is an interactive experience where storytelling, projection mapping, and cuisine blend into a one-of-a-kind event.
The dining room itself is deceptively simple at first—just rows of tables arranged in an elegant setting. But as the show begins, the space comes alive.
Tables light up, respond to guest interactions, and even play a role in the show. As different courses are served, the projections react in real-time. Place an object on the table, and watch the scenery shift. Move your hand, and watch elements ripple in response.
Some interactions worked better than others, and since not everything is explained, it’s up to diners to determine what actions are possible. So forget what your mother told you when you were five and go ahead and play with your dinner!
Each course is a scene inspired by an element: Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and my personal favorite, Aether.
Meet The Curator
Not everything in Elementa is left to the guests. The show is guided by a live performer known as The Curator, who introduces each course and provides a narrative thread for the evening.
The musical score and effects were well-balanced, creating a comfortable atmosphere where guests could enjoy both the show and their conversations.
The Elementa Menu
Elementa is a five-course menu with an amuse bouche starter. Each course has vegan options and can be customized for those with allergies (simply email before your visit).
WATER: Hamachi & Seaweed | Kabocha Squash & Tamari-Shitaki Dashi Dressing
Vegan: Substitute Kabocha
The projection mapping can detect and light up your plate, which also causes it to interact with the elements (for example, bubbles bounce off the plate instead of passing through).
Final Thoughts: Is The Gallery Worth It?
The Gallery isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
For $200 per person (gratuity included), Elementa offers a blend of fine dining and immersive entertainment unlike anything else in Los Angeles. Drink pairings are available at an additional cost.
For a limited time, reservations are discounted by $25.
Location & Hours
- The Gallery is located at 330 W Olympic Blvd, Downtown Los Angeles
- Open Wednesday–Sunday evenings, 5 p.m.–10 p.m. (Fridays & Saturdays until midnight)
- The Gallery presents Elementa reservations can be made HERE.
Final Verdict?
If you love theme parks, immersive storytelling, and high-tech dining experiences, The Gallery is absolutely worth a visit. While some technical elements could use fine-tuning, the experience is ambitious, engaging, and unlike anything else in LA—exactly what we’d expect from the creative minds behind Disney and Universal’s biggest nighttime spectacles.
With The Gallery designed to rotate shows, Elementa may not be around forever. So if you want to experience this version, book your tickets soon.
What do you think of The Gallery? Should local theme parks be offering something like this? Because we can’t help but wonder… why don’t they?
