Restaurant Filming Locations in L.A.
Making movies is so much more than just finding the perfect actors to immortalize the written characters on screen. It is also about setting the scene for the characters. And there is no better setting than some of the great restaurants and bars we have in LA. Some of them have been around since the beginning of Hollywoods glory days. Plus, like any star, they look great on camera. Here are 5 of our favorite LA restaurants immortalized on film.
Boardners
Boardners
A Hollywood legend, Boardners bears the history of Hollywood in its walls. First opened in 1927 and named “My Blue Heaven” by singer Gene Austin, it was THE place to go, complete with hat check girls. After Austin sold the establishment, it still thrived – in the 30’s as a “hair salon” (which was really a front for Prohibition-era illegal card club and gambling speakeasy) and then eventually as it is known today. Keeping the tradition alive over 70 years later, you can still walk in there and order a Moscow Mule, Mint Julep and Pimms every night. You can also see this icon of Hollywood in movies such as LA Confidential, Ed Wood, Gone Girl and Leaving Las Vegas.
Cicada
Cicada
If you are looking for a great meal accompanied by some big band music, then Cicada is your place. Located in the famed James Oviatt building in Downtown Los Angeles, Cicada offers amazing Northern Italian and California fusion cuisine. Since the building that houses Cicada is on the National Register of Historic Places, walking through the restaurant is like walking back in time with its 1920’s Art Deco Design. You might recognize Cicada on the big screen in movies such as Mr & Mrs Smith, Indecent Proposal and Pretty Woman or on the small screen in the award winning show Mad Men. While the menu is on the pricer side of town, you won’t forget the experience.
The Ivy
The Ivy
If you are interested in catching sight of a celebrity or two during your stay in LA and grab a bite to eat at the same time, then you will want to make a reservation at the Ivy. Located on Robertson Blvd., the Ivy serves nouvelle American cuisine and is a favorite of celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, the Kardashian family, Jessica Simpson, Patrick Stewart and Tom Hanks among others. You might also recognize it from Get Shorty. Either way, this famed Beverly Hills restaurant is a great way to star gaze and get a real dose of the Hollywood Experience.
Formosa Cafe
Formosa Cafe
Another Hollywood favorite, the Formosa Cafe has been around since the 1920’s. Famed movie stars such as Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable have graced the tables as well as Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner. Today’s celebrities such as Johnny Depp, Christian Slater, Brad Pitt, Britney Spears and Bono have enjoyed the Asian fusion cuisine inside this famed building. You can asi see The Formosa on the big screen in LA Confidential, The Majestic, Still Breathing and Swingers.It was saved from being torn down in the early 90’s and named an historical landmark. Unfortunately, the restaurant closed down last year. However, it was purchased in early 2018 and the new owners plan to renovate and re-open it. We will keep you posted on when that happens!
Randy’s Donuts
Randy’s Donuts
Who doesn’t love donuts? We do. And so does Tony Stark – if his reclining in the Big Randy’s Donut sign while eating a sugary confection in Iron Man 2 is any indication. Ok, it’s more of a bakery than a restaurant, BUT it’s just too good not to include in this list. And who doesn’t like dessert? This yummy donut store is a landmark building located near LAX. It is well known for its 32 1/2 food gigantic donut on the roof that you can see from almost anywhere. And the best part is you can get a warm and yummy donut any time of the day – Randy’s is open 24 hours AND it has a drive thru in case you want to pick up those donuts in your pajamas.
We can take you to all of these places and more on one of our 5-Star rated Private Tours! Choose from our All LA in a Day, the half day Hollywood Experience, or even Build Your Own Tour of any length and choose exactly what you want to see. We have had a 5-star rating on TripAdvisor since 2011 and all of our tours are completely private, custom tours with just you and your family — like your friend in LA taking you around town.
Call us at 800-549-6625 or email us today to book!