Hermosa Beach
Updated on Apr 25 2024 12:37pm
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Hollywood with our ultimate guide to spotting celebrities in Tinseltown. From the legendary Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where stars like Scarlett Johansson and Justin Timberlake frequent the chic Lobby Bar and The Spare Room, to the trendy Beauty & Essex, where Selena Gomez and Cardi B have celebrated in style, our curated list reveals the hottest spots where the elite dine and unwind. For a taste of Italian cuisine and celebrity sightings, Jon & Vinny's is a must-visit, attracting comedians like Pete Davidson. Meanwhile, Crossroads Kitchen offers upscale vegan dining favored by the likes of Jane Fonda and Beyoncé. Whether strolling through Franklin Village, catching a show at the Upright Citizens Brigade theatre, or browsing the aisles of Gelson's Gourmet Market, Hollywood's allure extends beyond the red carpet, offering countless opportunities for chance encounters with the stars.
The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel stands as a legendary haven for celebrities, boasting a rich history of hosting generations of Hollywood's elite. Rumored celebrity sightings at this iconic establishment include a constellation of stars such as Joe Jonas, Bruce Willis, Scarlett Johansson, Demi Lovato, Jessica Biel, Justin Timberlake, Kate Bosworth, Penélope Cruz, Orlando Bloom, Ryan Phillippe, Cameron Diaz, Zac Efron, and many more. From the chic Lobby Bar and the laid-back Tropicana Pool & Cafe to the vibrant atmosphere of The Spare Room, celebrities often gravitate to the hotel's distinctive spaces. The Golden Age-inspired Shirley Brasserie, tucked away off the lobby, adds to the allure, making it a prime spot for spotting your favorite stars indulging in the glamour of Hollywood's yesteryears.
Nestled within the glamorous Dream Hotel complex in Hollywood, Beauty & Essex emerges as one of Tinseltown's trendiest hotspots, boasting an all-encompassing experience curated by the renowned TAO Group. This stylish compound houses the signature Tao Asian bistro, Luchini pizzeria and bar, Avenue upscale bar and lounge, The Highlight Room rooftop lounge, and the grand restaurant and lounge, Beauty & Essex, adorned with a magnificent 20-foot oval skylight. A-list celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Kylie Jenner, and Cardi B, who celebrated her birthday here in 2018, have graced the venue. Chef Chris Santos captivates their palates with share-friendly plates like Caesar toast with crispy chicken skin and a 24-ounce bone-in ribeye served with truffle Hollandaise, elevating the dining experience to a star-studded affair. Frequented by Hollywood's elite, including Beyoncé and Jay-Z, The Weeknd, Selena Gomez, and Paris Hilton, Beauty & Essex stands as a testament to luxury and celebrity allure in the heart of Hollywood.
Jon & Vinny's is not only renowned for its delectable Italian cuisine but also for being a celebrity magnet. A favored date night spot for A-list couples, this charming eatery has hosted the likes of Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson, who shared slices of pizza in the relaxed ambiance. The dynamic duo of Chrissy Teigen and John Legend has also graced the restaurant, as well as the iconic power couple Jay-Z and Beyoncé, adding to the star-studded allure of Jon & Vinny's. The red carpet premiere of the new Hulu show, The Kardashians, brought a Hollywood spectacle to the Italian hot spot, with Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson joined by Kourtney Kardashian, Travis Barker, Jonathan Cheban, and Tracy and Roy Romulus for an unforgettable dining experience. With its casual yet chic atmosphere and a menu that entices even the most discerning palates, Jon & Vinny's remains a must-visit destination for both food enthusiasts and those hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities enjoying a slice of Hollywood life.
If you're aiming to casually mingle with Hollywood's elite, a visit to Crossroads Kitchen is a must. Under the culinary mastery of renowned chef Tal Ronnen, this upscale vegan dining establishment has become a haven for countless entertainers seeking the finest in plant-based cuisine. Whether vegan or not, the allure of Ronnen's culinary creations has attracted a who's who of celebrities, including luminaries like Jane Fonda and Paul McCartney. What sets Crossroads apart as the epicenter of LA's plant-based dining scene is its ability to defy stereotypes associated with vegan food. Celebrities indulging in vegan delights find solace in comfortable booths, perusing extensive wine lists, and savoring Ronnen's seasonal menus featuring delectable offerings like the spinach and artichoke tart and stuffed squash blossoms. The star-studded list of patrons extends to Alicia Silverstone, Addison Rae, Jay Z, Beyoncé, Ellen DeGeneres, Tobey Maguire, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, Miley Cyrus, and more, while celebrity chefs from the Food Network have also showered the restaurant with acclaim.
Step into the glamorous world of Hollywood at Mother Wolf, a sprawling Italian restaurant that may not be as star-studded as it once was, but still offers a high probability of celebrity sightings, with familiar faces from Super Bowl commercials and beyond. The ballroom-esque dining room sets the stage for a lively atmosphere, adorned with ornate chandeliers and a negroni-fueled bar area that rivals the sophistication of Sunset Tower. The ambiance is a unique blend of Las Vegas allure, Carbone's elegance, and the grandeur of a Roman banquet hall, all condensed into the iconic Madonna Inn. As you savor the culinary delights, with a focus on pasta favorites like cacio e pepe and all’amatriciana, keep your eyes peeled for celebrities. Mother Wolf has played host to the likes of Brad Pitt, Chrissy Teigen and Mark Wahlberg, adding to the restaurant's allure as a celebrity hotspot. Recently, the Simply Giada star, Giada De Laurentiis, fresh from her fabulous trip to Italy, graced the venue with her presence, indulging in a feast of burrata with peaches, various pasta dishes, and delightful gelato alongside friends. Mother Wolf continues to be a go-to destination for those seeking a taste of Italy and the chance to dine amidst Hollywood's glitterati.
Photo by Elizabeth Daniels
Nestled in West Hollywood, The Nice Guy stands as an exclusive and iconic fusion of a restaurant and a nightclub, capturing the essence of a Goodfellas-themed spot. Founded by John Terzian and Brian Toll, also the visionaries behind LA favorites Bootsy Bellows and Shorebar, this establishment has become synonymous with upscale and trendy dining. Known for its reservation-only policy, The Nice Guy attracts an eminent clientele, including celebrities like Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Selena Gomez, Drake, and Katy Perry. The interior pays homage to the Mafia era with vintage marble and brass accents, creating an intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation and camaraderie. With an alluring mix of Italian-inspired cuisine and a strict no-photos policy to safeguard the privacy of its high-profile patrons, The Nice Guy remains a coveted and elusive hotspot, ensuring a celebrity sighting for those fortunate enough to secure a reservation.
Katsuya Hollywood stands as a beacon of sophisticated dining, seamlessly blending culinary excellence with avant-garde design by Philippe Starck. The ambiance is a masterpiece of bold, provocative, and dramatic decor, adorned with illuminated photographs paying homage to the iconic Geisha. A haven for Hollywood's elite, Katsuya Hollywood offers a glamorous presentation of sushi that lures starlets such as Taylor Swift, Brad Pitt, Kate Hudson, Cameron Diaz, Pamela Anderson, and Gwyneth Paltrow. The allure of exquisite Japanese cuisine combined with the chance to dine amid the opulent atmosphere makes Katsuya Hollywood a premier destination for those seeking both culinary artistry and celebrity sightings.
Osteria Mozza, a renowned Hollywood Italian restaurant, stands out as a hotspot for celebrity sightings, drawing a diverse clientele that includes Rihanna and Thomas Middleditch. Owned by the esteemed chef-lebrity Nancy Silverton, the restaurant has earned its reputation as a culinary gem. The allure extends even to power couple Beyoncé and Jay-Z, who have graced this establishment with their presence. With a Michelin star, Osteria Mozza is celebrated for its commitment to traditional Italian cuisine and seasonal delights, offering an unforgettable dining experience. For those craving Mozza's famed pizza, the adjacent Pizzeria Mozza serves up a delectable selection, ensuring that visitors can savor the best of Italian cuisine in this star-studded locale.
Joan's on Third has solidified its status as a premier celebrity hangout, drawing in Hollywood's A-listers with its New York-style deli charm and delectable offerings. Frequented by the likes of Ian Somerhalder, Sarah Hyland, Miranda Cosgrove, Johnny Knoxville, and cast members from Broad City, Joan's on Third has become a hotspot where paparazzi often capture celebrities enjoying a meal al fresco, generating a constant buzz around the establishment. With an ambiance that effortlessly blends trendiness with friendliness, Joan's on Third has also played host to Robert Duvall, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Moon Zappa, making it a culinary emporium that transcends its delicious fare to become a social nexus for notable figures. For those hoping to catch a glimpse of stars like Nikki Reed, Alexander Skarsgard, Brooklyn Decker, Nicole Richie, Kate Bosworth, Jared Leto, or Selena Gomez, the insider tip is to head inside, perhaps snagging a seat at a communal table, as the celebs often opt for a more discreet dining experience while still contributing to the vibrant energy of this celebrity-loved locale.
Step into the rich history of Hollywood at Musso & Frank Grill, founded by Joseph Musso and Frank Toulet in 1919, quickly establishing itself as one of LA's best restaurants and bars. With an iconic appearance and a classic menu featuring mouthwatering steaks, Musso & Frank has become a Hollywood institution, featured in top movies like Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Ocean's Eleven. The legendary establishment has been graced by Hollywood royalty of the past, including Charlie Chaplin and Marilyn Monroe, and continues to be a celebrity hotspot today. Expect to rub elbows with the likes of George Clooney or Brad Pitt while savoring a beer at the historic bar. The large red booths have hosted iconic figures such as Jack Nicholson, Michael C. Hall, Tom Selleck, and Sandra Oh. Musso & Frank Grill remains a timeless dining spot where you can order a Martini and steak, soaking in the ambiance that has attracted famous diners like Sean Connery, Keith Richards, Johnny Depp, and Quentin Tarantino, who prominently featured Musso's in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Celebrating its centennial, this legendary venue promises a glimpse into Hollywood's golden era and a chance encounter with today's stars.
TCL Chinese Theatre, an iconic Hollywood landmark since 1927, continues to be a magnetic draw for celebrities during film premieres. The ornate Asian-themed movie house is a red carpet hub, attracting stars eager to promote their latest movies. The premiere events, complete with arc lights and paparazzi, create a glamorous spectacle, providing the public and photographers alike with opportunities to catch glimpses of their favorite film stars. Even outside of premieres, the TCL Chinese Theatre is a Hollywood treasure worth visiting. Its Forecourt of the Stars showcases handprints and signatures of over 200 celebrities, including memorable imprints from Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe in her signature high-heel pumps, John Wayne in cowboy boots, and even R2D2 from Star Wars leaving distinctive wheel prints in cement. A visit to TCL Chinese Theatre offers a delightful blend of Hollywood history, cinematic grandeur, and the allure of celebrity imprints.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of celebrities in a more casual setting, the renowned Runyon Canyon, located at emerges as one of the best spots in the city for encountering the rich and famous. Contrary to the notion that stars are exclusively found in traditional celebrity hangouts, Runyon Canyon provides a unique blend of outdoor activity and celebrity sightings. The list of notable personalities spotted on these trails includes Charlize Theron, Natalie Portman, Orlando Bloom, Justin Bieber, Channing Tatum, Kathy Griffin, and Elle Macpherson. Situated just west of Hollywood's Chinese Theatre, between Franklin Avenue and Mulholland Drive, Runyon Canyon's accessibility makes it a preferred location for stars and industry titans. The breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the proximity to the heart of the city contribute to Runyon Canyon's allure, making it a favored destination for both fitness enthusiasts and those hoping to catch a star in action. Many celebs have been known to bring their dogs along as well.
In the charming neighborhood of Franklin Village in Hollywood, celebrity sightings are practically a local pastime. To increase your chances of spotting A-listers, start your evening with a dose of laughter at the Upright Citizens Brigade theatre (UCB), a renowned venue where many comedy icons kick-started their careers. As you enjoy the improv show, keep an eye out for familiar faces such as Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Justin Long, Amanda Seyfried, or even Robert Pattinson, as they have been known to frequent the theater. Following the entertainment, plan your dinner at La Poubelle, a romantic French bistro that often attracts the glitterati. Cap off the night with a visit to Birds for a nightcap, where the odds of rubbing shoulders with the stars remain high. An insider tip: if you spot a celebrity at UCB, don't be surprised to find them unwinding at Birds or La Poubelle afterward, turning your night out into a potential star-studded experience.
Navigate the aisles of Gelson's Gourmet Market on Franklin in Hollywood, and you might just find yourself in the midst of a celebrity encounter. While scouring restaurants from Malibu to Beverly Hills may yield limited results, this upscale grocery store in Franklin Village becomes a hotspot for spotting famous faces. Imagine locking eyes with Alison Brie at the deli counter or reaching for almond milk alongside Jon Hamm—these aren't just fantasies but regular occurrences at Gelson's. Celebrities like Mila Kunis, Robert Pattinson, and Amanda Seyfried have been spotted among the high-priced niche items and upscale clientele of this renowned market. As the go-to spot for almond moms and party hosts, Gelson's offers more than just groceries—it provides an opportunity to casually share the aisles with Hollywood's elite, turning your everyday shopping experience into a star-studded affair. Prepare for the unexpected and keep your eyes peeled as you navigate this celebrity-frequented gourmet haven in the heart of Hollywood.