Celebrity-owned restaurants in Los Angeles
When you think of Los Angeles, you often think of Hollywood, the Land of Celebrities. Some people come to L.A. expecting to see a movie or television star on each corner. The reality is that L.A. is an enormous city and, while you might see a recognizable actor or musician, you won't always realize it; they tend to blend right in with the rest of us. You're more likely to spot a celebrity when at the grocery store or getting a coffee than out doing something glamorous. However, a good place to spot a famous face is in a celebrity-owned restaurant. Not only do the owners of these restaurants visit often, but the restaurants also tend to draw the owners' equally high-profile friends. Even better, the food is often quite good, especially at these places:
Ago (8478 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood): Ago is partly-owned by Robert De Niro, who you will often see hanging out at the bar with his friends. This Italian restaurant is known for their pasta and seafood dishes. Eat at the bar and get to know the regulars, a real cast of characters. You can stay at the nearby Petit Ermitage.
Beso (6350 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles): Beso is owned by Eva Longoria and celebrity chef Todd English. It's a steakhouse by way of Latin America. Always packed, you'll be delighted by the decor and after dinner nightlife. Dance while the hottest DJs spin, or just taste the various obscure tequilas while you watch the A-list crowd mingle. It's located just steps from Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.
Dominick's (8715 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood): Dominick's is the oldest establishment of the bunch, recently renovated by its new owners who include Laura Dern and her husband, Ben Harper. Sit on the patio for a charming evening under the twinkling lights. Or, sit inside where old-Hollywood is still alive. Sunday night is when the action really hits, with their $15 Sunday Supper prix-fixe menu and wine for $10 a bottle. You can walk there from the Sofitel Los Angeles or you can take a short taxi from Le Parc Suites.
- Lesley Bracker
Photo courtesy of Beso