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The Culinary Scene: Food and Drinks in Tinseltown

Discover the vibrant flavors and iconic establishments that make Hollywood’s food and drink scene as legendary as its silver screen

Hollywood’s Culinary Renaissance

Hollywood has always been known for its glitz, glamour, and star-studded sidewalks, but in recent years, the neighborhood has undergone a remarkable culinary transformation. No longer just a tourist destination for celebrity sightings and studio tours, Hollywood now boasts one of Los Angeles’ most dynamic food and drink scenes. From historic establishments that have served the stars for decades to innovative new concepts pushing culinary boundaries, the food landscape in Tinseltown offers something for every palate and budget.

Whether you’re a local looking to explore new flavors or a visitor wanting to experience authentic Hollywood dining beyond the typical tourist traps, this guide will take you through the must-visit establishments and emerging trends shaping the neighborhood’s gastronomic identity.

Historic Hollywood Eateries

Musso & Frank Grill

No discussion of Hollywood’s culinary history would be complete without mentioning Musso & Frank Grill. Established in 1919, this iconic restaurant has been serving classic American and European dishes for over a century. As Hollywood’s oldest restaurant, its red leather booths have hosted countless celebrities, from Charlie Chaplin to Quentin Tarantino.

What to order: The perfect martini (stirred, not shaken), their legendary Broiled Strip Steak, and Lobster Thermidor. For a true taste of old Hollywood, try the off-menu Fettuccine Alfredo, reportedly prepared using a recipe given to the owners by Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks after their honeymoon in Italy.

The Formosa Cafe

Recently restored to its former glory, The Formosa Cafe has been a Hollywood fixture since 1939. With its distinctive red exterior and vintage train car dining room, this establishment combines authentic Chinese cuisine with classic American fare. Its walls are adorned with photos of the many celebrities who have dined here over the decades.

What to order: Their famous dumplings, Orange Chicken, and a classic Mai Tai from the bar that once served Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall.

Celebrity Chef Hotspots

Gwen

From celebrity chef Curtis Stone, Gwen combines a European-style butcher shop with a sophisticated restaurant. The focus here is on fire-centric cooking and ethically sourced meats from small farms.

What to order: The charcuterie board featuring house-made selections and the fire-roasted lamb.

Hidden Gems: Local Favorites

Luv2eat Thai Bistro

Located in a strip mall off Hollywood Boulevard, this authentic Thai restaurant has developed a cult following among locals for its unapologetically spicy Southern Thai specialties.

What to order: The Phuket-style crab curry and jade noodles with BBQ pork.

Craft Cocktail Revolution

The Spare Room

Located inside the historic Roosevelt Hotel, The Spare Room combines craft cocktails with vintage gaming. This speakeasy-style bar features a two-lane bowling alley and custom-made board games alongside innovative cocktails.

What to order: The Smoking Jacket (bourbon, smoked tea, vanilla, and bitters) or ask for a custom creation from their talented mixologists.

La Descarga

This Cuban-themed speakeasy requires entry through a closet door and features rum-focused cocktails, live music, and occasional burlesque performances. The intimate setting and strict reservation policy create an exclusive atmosphere.

What to order: The Tapping the Admiral (aged rum, cognac, and aromatic bitters) or their classic daiquiri.

Coffee Culture in Tinseltown

Groundwork Coffee Co.

Housed in a historic Hollywood building, this California-based roaster offers meticulously sourced single-origin coffees and signature blends. The industrial-chic space attracts screenwriters, actors, and industry professionals.

What to order: Their Cold Brew or the Bitches Brew, a blend of dark-roasted coffees with hints of dark chocolate.

Food Trucks and Pop-Ups

Kogi BBQ Truck

Roy Choi’s revolutionary Korean-Mexican fusion truck helped launch the entire food truck movement and still makes regular stops throughout Hollywood. Follow their social media accounts to track their schedule.

What to order: The Short Rib Taco or the Kimchi Quesadilla.

Smorgasburg LA

While not limited to Hollywood, this weekly Sunday food festival features over 100 vendors and has become a launching pad for many concepts that later establish permanent locations in the neighborhood.

What to order: Sample as many different vendors as possible – from Lobsterdamus’ grilled lobster to Broad Street Oyster Co.’s lobster rolls.

Plant-Based Paradise

Crossroads Kitchen

Chef Tal Ronnen’s upscale vegan restaurant attracts celebrities and food enthusiasts alike with sophisticated plant-based dishes that appeal to omnivores and vegans equally.

What to order: The Artichoke Oysters and the Impossible Cigars (plant-based meat wrapped in crispy pastry).

Gracias Madre

This plant-based Mexican restaurant features organic ingredients and a stunning outdoor patio. Their cocktail program, featuring organic tequilas and mezcals, is as impressive as their food menu.

What to order: The Flautas de Camote (sweet potato flautas) and a Purista Margarita made with organic tequila.

International Flavors

Ruen Pair Thai

This no-frills Thai restaurant in East Hollywood serves authentic dishes at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among chefs and locals seeking genuine Thai flavors.

What to order: The Papaya Salad and Chinese Olive Fried Rice with minced pork.

Osteria Mozza

Part of Nancy Silverton’s Mozza Restaurant Group, this upscale Italian establishment features a distinctive mozzarella bar and handmade pasta dishes that have earned multiple awards.

What to order: Burrata with bacon, marinated escarole, and caramelized shallots, followed by their famous Orecchiette with sausage and Swiss chard.

Tasting Your Way Through Hollywood

Hollywood’s culinary landscape has evolved far beyond tourist traps and chain restaurants. Today, it stands as one of Los Angeles’ most exciting food destinations, offering everything from historic establishments where you can soak in film history to cutting-edge restaurants pushing culinary boundaries. The neighborhood’s diversity is reflected in its food offerings, with authentic international cuisines sitting alongside farm-to-table California concepts.

Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a local looking to rediscover your neighborhood, exploring Hollywood through its food and drink scene provides a taste of both its storied past and dynamic present. From legendary martinis at Musso & Frank to innovative plant-based cuisine at Crossroads Kitchen, the flavors of Hollywood are as diverse and captivating as the neighborhood itself.

So the next time you find yourself walking along the Hollywood Walk of Fame or taking in a show at the Pantages Theatre, venture beyond the obvious dining choices and discover the culinary gems that make Hollywood a true food lover’s destination.

Have you experienced any of these Hollywood culinary hotspots? Share your favorite food and drink recommendations in the comments below!

About the Author: A passionate food explorer and Hollywood history enthusiast who has spent years discovering the best bites and sips that Tinseltown has to offer.

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