Hidden Gems of LA: Celebrity Favorite Restaurants

Key Takeaways

• Los Angeles is home to numerous celebrity hotspots, including restaurants, shops, and beaches, where you can spot A-listers in their natural habitats.
• You don’t have to break the bank to dine at celebrity-frequented restaurants, as many low-key eateries offer affordable options.
• Some of the most popular celebrity hangouts in LA include Canter’s Deli, The Smoke House, Casa Vega, Bob’s Big Boy, and In-N-Out Burger.
• These restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from classic American diners to Mexican and Italian eateries, and are often located in historic buildings with nostalgic atmospheres.
• Visiting these restaurants can provide a unique glimpse into the lives of celebrities and the rich history of Los Angeles’ entertainment industry.

Introduction to Celebrity Hangouts in LA
Los Angeles has long been a magnet for aspiring stars, with many flocking to the city to pursue careers in film, television, music, and social media. While not everyone achieves their dreams, those who do often settle in the city, creating a plethora of celebrity hotspots to visit. From luxury shops on Rodeo Drive to oceanfront homes in Malibu, there are numerous places to spot A-listers. However, you don’t have to go on a expensive shopping spree or trespass on private property to rub elbows with the stars. Instead, you can visit one of the many low-key restaurants that are secret celebrity hangouts.

Canter’s Deli: A Historic Celebrity Hangout
Canter’s Deli is an iconic 24-hour eatery that has been feeding Los Angeles since 1931. Located on Fairfax Avenue, the restaurant is marked by a retro neon sign and features a New York-style deli counter, traditional Jewish deli fare, and fresh baked goods. The dining area is bursting with 1950s-style decor and walls adorned with framed black-and-white photos of famous former diners, including Elizabeth Taylor, Dick Van Dyke, and Marilyn Monroe. With a 24-hour menu and an attached dive bar pouring cocktails alongside nightly live music, Canter’s has a laidback vibe that appeals to celebrities and civilians alike.

The Smoke House: Old Hollywood Charm
The Smoke House is another classic restaurant that oozes Old Hollywood charm. Opened in 1946, the restaurant has been faithfully serving Burbank for almost 80 years and has been a go-to hangout spot for actors and filmmakers. The walls are adorned with vintage movie posters and framed photos of famous former diners, including Judy Garland, Robert Redford, and Kirk Douglas. The restaurant has also had a starring role in movies and television shows like "Argo," "The Office," and "Desperate Housewives." With a motto of "fine food at a fair price," The Smoke House offers an affordable dining experience, especially during happy hour, which features $7 cocktails and bar bites under $10.

Casa Vega: A Timeless Los Angeles Gem
Casa Vega is a family-owned Mexican restaurant that has been a Tinsel Town staple since 1956. Located on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, the restaurant has drawn in luminaries like Cary Grant, Marlon Brando, and Miley Cyrus. The restaurant is prominently featured in Quentin Tarantino’s "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" and offers a signature margarita crafted by the director himself. With cozy red booths, brick-lined walls, and a low-lit vintage atmosphere, Casa Vega is a timeless Los Angeles gem that has been a favorite among filmmakers, celebrities, and everyday patrons for over 70 years.

Bob’s Big Boy: A Classic American Diner
Bob’s Big Boy is a classic burger chain that has been a celebrity haunt for decades. Founded in Glendale in 1936, the restaurant has nearly 70 locations across the US, but the Burbank location, opened in 1949, is the oldest outpost still standing. The restaurant is nestled in a mid-century Googie-style building and features a retro diner atmosphere, complete with a gallery of framed photos showcasing its most illustrious past regulars, including Bob Hope, Debbie Reynolds, and Mickey Rooney. Today, you might run into A-list regulars like Drew Carey or Jay Leno, who often attend the weekly Friday Night Car Show in the parking lot.

In-N-Out Burger: A California Staple
In-N-Out Burger is a California staple that has been a favorite among celebrities and locals alike since 1948. The Sunset Boulevard location is particularly popular, especially during Hollywood’s awards season, when stars like Adele, Julia Roberts, and Miley Cyrus stop by for a late-night burger run. The restaurant has become an award show tradition, with the Vanity Fair Oscar’s Party catering the famous burgers since 1994. With a range of menu options, including cheeseburgers, fries, and shakes, In-N-Out Burger is one of the few places in Los Angeles where you can chow down with award-winning stars.

Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city that is steeped in history and entertainment, and its restaurants are no exception. From classic diners like Canter’s Deli and Bob’s Big Boy to Mexican eateries like Casa Vega and burger joints like In-N-Out, there are numerous celebrity hangouts to explore. Whether you’re a foodie, a film buff, or just looking for a unique experience, these restaurants offer a glimpse into the lives of celebrities and the rich history of Los Angeles’ entertainment industry. So, next time you’re in LA, be sure to stop by one of these iconic eateries and see if you can spot any A-listers in their natural habitats.