KOTI CREATIVE

Leena Culhane is an interdisciplinary artist and creative powerhouse merging her diverse background in art, music, and entrepreneurship with a deep-seated passion for hospitality. A UCLA graduate with degrees in Theatre and Comparative Literature, Leena’s career is a testament to her ability to blend artistic vision with integrated design and operational acumen.

While navigating her career as a musician, Leena maintained a strong connection to the restaurant industry between tours, working at several beloved haunts across Los Angeles and Nashville. It was while opening Philip Krajek’s beloved Folk in 2018 that Leena was inspired to imagine one day opening her own place. That opportunity came in 2020, when, amidst global upheaval, she met her business partner, Brian Bornemann, and the two set to work founding and operating Crudo e Nudo, their first of several joint ventures. This pandemic-born pop-up quickly became a darling of the Los Angeles food scene, earning a coveted spot in the LA Times' 100 Best Restaurants in 2023 as well as rave reviews and honorable mentions from KCRW, The New Yorker, Bon Apetit, Food & Wine, and many others. The 600 square foot space - first designed to respond to the constraints of social distancing and later packed to the gills on a regular basis - garnered national acclaim for its innovative business structure, independent spirit, and ethereal menu, making a significant impact during one of the toughest times for the industry.

Following the success of Crudo e Nudo, Leena opened two additional restaurants in as many years: Bella Dea in the West Village and Isla in Santa Monica. In these ventures, she is responsible for shaping brand identity, creative direction, interior design, and fostering an ethos of warmth and connection that resonates deeply with guests. Her hands-on approach to managing teams, design, and brand philosophy is a fundamental artery in the heart of her restaurants.

In 2024, Leena launched KOTI CREATIVE, a full-spectrum design studio that reflects her belief that good design is hospitality. Koti is a nod to Leena’s Finnish roots and translates to dwelling while evoking a larger sense of arrival in one’s home. Her spaces capture a true sense of place in a world where unique, neighborhood touchstones are becoming increasingly rare.

Leena is eager to connect with fellow creatives and potential collaborators who are passionate about people, spaces, and stories. She welcomes opportunities to share and create extraordinary experiences in commercial and residential projects alike.