Best Restaurants to Experience “Old Hollywood” in Los Angeles:

Los Angeles, the glittering city of dreams, has long been a haven for the stars of old Hollywood. As you explore the streets and neighborhoods, you can still catch glimpses of the glamour and allure that defined the golden era of cinema. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this enchanting world is by visiting the classic and iconic restaurants that have played host to countless legends of the silver screen, and have been featured in countless Los Angeles films. We can’t wait to tell you about a few of our favorites!

Musso & Frank Grill (Hollywood)

Most recently featured in Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”, dining at Musso & Frank Grill is like stepping back in time. A timeless gem nestled on Hollywood Boulevard since 1919. Celebrities like Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and many more were all regulars here, and once sat in the same vintage decor you see now, with the waitstaff still donning their bowties and red coats to this day. But not only is it an incredible preservation of Hollywood’s golden days, it’s also a fantastic restaurant, with classic continental American Dishes, great steaks, and of course, the best Martinis in town.

From "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" (2019)

The Polo Lounge (Beverly Hills)

In our opinion, there is no more quintessential L.A. restaurant than breezy and elegant Polo Lounge, a legendary establishment nestled within the Beverly Hills Hotel since 1941. You simply haven’t had the full LA experience until grabbing lunch in their beautiful garden, filled with flowers, tea-time tables and chairs, and iconic turquoise umbrellas. So when you visit L.A. make sure to take some time and dine like Elizabeth Taylor, by having some classic Californian cuisine at the Polo Lounge.

The Smoke House (Burbank)

It doesn’t always get it’s dues because it’s in Burbank, but The Smoke House is an absolute haven for both Hollywood insiders and enthusiasts since 1946. Located near Warner Bros. and ABC studios, this cherished restaurant still exudes the old Hollywood charm that once attracted actors and industry professionals. Many legendary Hollywood meetings have been held over their incredible BBQ and Steaks. So go delight in the comfort of classic American dishes while basking in the rich history (and amazing bbq smells) that fill the air!

The Formosa Café (Hollywood)

Standing strong amongst the film studios in Hollywood, The Formosa Cafe has been around since 1925 and played host to starts such as Elvis Presley, Humphrey Bogart and Clark Cable, it was also spotted in the 1997 film “L.A. Confidential”. Tragically in 2017, Formosa Cafe shuttered its doors unexpectedly, but magically reopened with a new and modern design… which Angelenos hated. Formosa then closed again and rebuilt and refurbished its historic interior, and reopened to the public with much fanfare in 2021. It’s magical every time you step into its Chinese-themed interior, adorned with vintage memorabilia, old-world charm, and some of the best Chinese food in Los Angeles, Formosa is a great place to hear the whispers of Hollywood’s golden era.

From "L.A. Confidential" (1991)

Dan Tana’s (West Hollywood)

In 2014, Dan Tana’s was featured in The Hollywood Reporter, where celebrities like George Clooney, Robert De Niro, and Cameron Diaz discussed their deep love for the iconic restaurant, while Drew Barrymore claims to have even had her diapers changed there as baby. A West Hollywood institution since 1964, Dan Tana’s was founded by a Serbian soccer player who moved to Los Angeles with only $10 in his pocket, and started as a dishwasher at a burger stand before eventually buying the place and turning into the iconic Italian joint we know to this day. Dan Tana’s sports gorgeous red leather booths, lots of vintage sports memorabilia, and classic Italian tablecloths. After going out in West Hollywood, there is no better place to end the night with a beer and some incredible chicken Parmesan.
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The Ivy (West Hollywood)

While not as historic as Musso and Frank or the Polo Lounge, the Ivy has been a beloved hotspot for celebrities since 1983. Tucked away on the edges of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, The Ivy enchants with its charming cottage setting and vibrant patio adorned with flowers and Christmas lights most of the year. Indulge in Wood-Fried Pizzas and international cuisine while rubbing shoulders with A-list celebrities who have made The Ivy their go-to spot for glamorous lunches and star-studded gatherings, as it’s one of the prettiest restaurants you’ll ever go to.

The Prince (Koreatown)

Established in 1925, and originally known as “The Windsor”, the Prince is an old-school hideaway located in Koreatown, serving up delicious Korean-style fired chicken. During the Prohibition era it was renamed “The Prince” and used as a speakeasy, with it’s iconic red booths and horseshoe bar. Throughout the years it became known as a place where actors would go to have an affair or a secret industry meeting, but know has become a Los Angeles icon and has been featured in many movies, music videos, and TV Shows, like “Mad Men” and “New Girl”

From AMC's "Mad Men" (2008)
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El Coyote (Hollywood)

Located on Beverly Boulevard, El Coyote is a Mexican restaurant that has been serving classic dishes since 1931. It has a colorful history and has been a favorite spot for old Hollywood stars like Natalie Wood, Steve McQueen, and was the last place Sharon Tate was seen. The restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere, waitresses in elaborate dresses, and famous margaritas.

The Dresden (Los Feliz)

Featured in the movie "Swingers," The Dresden is a retro-style supper club that has been entertaining guests since the 1950s. Located in Los Feliz, it offers live entertainment with a nostalgic ambiance. The restaurant gained fame for its appearances in films and TV shows, as well as being located next door to the former “Rockwell” where Jeff Goldblum performed regularly with his Jazz band.

From "Swingers" (1996)

Tower Bar

Ok so maybe Tower Bar opened in 2005, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t capture the magic of Old Hollywood. This WeHo rooftop bar feels older than it is with it’s 60’s and 70’s inspired decor, and the fact that it was constructed inside Sunset Tower, an Art Deco building built in the 1920’s as an apartment complex for celebrities. So Tower Bar may not even be 20 years old, but the building it’s housed in was once called home by Howard Hughes, John Wayne, and Elizabeth Taylor. It’s one of the best spots in Hollywood to grab a drink, a burger, and take a dip in the pool. P.S. it has a sundae bar…

Honorable Mention: Tam O Shanter’s

Located in Atwater Village, The Tam O'Shanter has been serving Scottish and American cuisine since 1922. It is one of the oldest restaurants in Los Angeles and has attracted stars like Walt Disney and Bob Hope. The restaurant features a charming old-world atmosphere that feels like eating in a medieval castle, and is known for its prime rib and Scottish specialties.

Conclusion:

From La La Land (2016)

We only scratched the surface in this post (We didn't even get to Chateau Marmont, The Lighthouse Cafe, or Pat & Lorraine's), as there are so many Los Angeles staples featured in TV and Movies, that keep the flame of Old Hollywood Alive, but we hope you embark on this very SoCal culinary adventure.