On a balmy June evening in Los Angeles, PAPER gathered friends, family, and some of our favorite faces for an intimate Pride dinner at Zaytinya, the sleek hotspot at The Shay Culver City. In partnership with José Andrés Group and La Roche-Posay, the night brought together an eclectic crew of creators, icons and allies to toast queerness in all its beauty.
Hosted by PAPER’s own Brian Calle, the soirée was equal parts elegant and cheeky. Guests like Bonnie McKee — freshly featured in PAPER’s 40th Anniversary Paper People LA issue — mingled with digital darlings including James Charles, who made an entrance with Trevor Garcia in tow, and Terri Joe (AKA Kelon Campbell), who’s fast becoming a PAPER People legend in their own right.
There were familiar PAPER faces — like Mad Tsai and Kerri Colby — alongside rising stars like CLAY, Jardell William and OutLoud Fest performer Grant Knoche. Also spotted in the mix: La Demi and Khian Brown, bringing glam, charm and plenty of content-worthy moments. At every turn, guests were snapping pics, sipping cocktails and swapping glam secrets, all while enjoying Zaytinya’s signature spreads, grilled branzino and perfectly tender lamb shoulder — dishes that embody the restaurant's Mediterranean roots. The evening was elevated by a selection of beautiful cocktails — think herbaceous spritzes, citrus-forward pours and bold Mediterranean twists that had guests asking for seconds.
Beauty was, unsurprisingly, a key player. La Roche-Posay’s chic Mela B3 kits sat prettily on every place setting, and Emanuella Louis from the brand was on hand to celebrate skin-care as self-care. There was no formal program, no speech-y agenda. Just radiant faces, lit candles and organic moments of joy and connection.
This dinner followed the energy of PAPER’s NYC Pride and World Pride DC dinners at The Bazaar in both cities — but in true LA fashion, things skewed more laid-back and lush: think al fresco realness, West Coast stars, and a room that felt more like a family table than a press event. And at Zaytinya, the mezze-style menu, bright ambiance and signature hospitality creates an experience that feels like a journey to the Mediterranean, without ever leaving LA. Call it a celebration of chosen family, wrapped in glowy light and glossy lip.
Because if Pride is about love, expression and being seen — this night gave us all three. And yes, the skincare gift bags were everything.
Reserve a table at the host restaurant of the PAPER Pride LA Dinner at Zaytinya at The Shay Culver City.
Photography: Tyler Matthew Oyer
