10 Legendary LA Restaurants Once Favored By Marilyn Monroe
Welcome to a culinary time machine! Today, we’re strutting down Hollywood Boulevard and beyond, visiting the iconic spots that served as Marilyn Monroe’s favorite haunts.
Grab your fanciest fork and a healthy dose of curiosity, as we unveil where the legendary blonde bombshell dined. These spots are a mix of nostalgia-soaked history and mouthwatering delight. Let’s dig in!
1. Musso & Frank Grill, Hollywood
This place is where Hollywood legends dined. Musso & Frank Grill is a timeless classic, echoing with the whispers of movie stars past.
Opened in 1919, it’s older than the Oscars! The menu is a blend of vintage charm and mouthwatering dishes. Imagine Marilyn, in all her glory, savoring a plate here.
The red leather booths and classic décor make it a true Hollywood relic. It’s a spot where the past meets the present deliciously.
2. The Original Pantry Café, Downtown LA
Where can you find a diner that’s never closed since 1924? The Original Pantry Café, a piece of LA history, is always open.
Known for hearty breakfasts and endless coffee, it’s a bustling hub of nostalgia. Picture Marilyn Monroe strolling in for a stack of pancakes.
The café’s timeless vibe makes every visitor feel like a star. With its bustling atmosphere, it’s a delightful throwback to simpler times and hearty meals.
3. Tropicana Bar At The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Hollywood
Did you know Marilyn once lived here? The Tropicana Bar at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is a glamorous escape. Nestled poolside, it exudes classic Hollywood allure. Imagine sipping a soda while stars twinkled overhead.
The setting is an elegant mix of palm trees and nostalgia. It’s a place where legends relaxed and the Hollywood elite mingled. Stars like Marilyn turned it into their personal oasis, a true gem of Tinseltown history.
4. Formosa Café, West Hollywood
Are you ready for some Hollywood intrigue? Formosa Café, with its striking red lanterns, was a favorite among stars like Marilyn.
The café offers a unique blend of Asian flair and Hollywood mystique. It’s been a haunt for film industry elites since 1939.
Stories of secret rendezvous and glamorous nights seep from its walls. Formosa’s charm lies in its ability to transport you to another era, filled with whispers of old Hollywood.
5. Canter’s Deli, Fairfax District
Did someone say pastrami paradise? Canter’s Deli is a staple of the Fairfax District. Known for its delicious deli sandwiches, it’s a go-to for late-night cravings.
Marilyn would have enjoyed the bustling atmosphere and mouthwatering menu. The deli’s charm is in its authenticity and history.
Since 1931, it’s been serving up joy on rye. It’s a spot where culinary tradition and celebrity clientele intertwine, creating a unique dining experience.
6. Dominick’s, Beverly Boulevard
Where did the Rat Pack dine? Dominick’s was a beloved Italian haven. Marilyn was a regular, drawn by its charming ambiance and comforting cuisine. Imagine enjoying pasta under candlelight, surrounded by Hollywood legends.
The cozy setting offered a perfect escape from the limelight. Dominick’s was a spot where stories unfolded over spaghetti, a place of warmth and camaraderie. Though it closed in 2015, its legacy lives on.
7. Perino’s, Downtown LA
However you slice it, Perino’s was the epitome of elegance. This fine dining gem was where stars like Marilyn gathered for exquisite meals.
Known for its sophisticated ambiance and impeccable service, it was a beacon of culinary excellence. The restaurant’s high ceilings and white tablecloths painted a picture of classic elegance.
It was a spot where Hollywood’s elite celebrated life’s grand moments. Perino’s was a true culinary masterpiece.
8. C.C. Brown’s, Hollywood
When did ice cream become legendary? At C.C. Brown’s, it was always legendary! Known for inventing the hot fudge sundae, this spot was Marilyn’s sweet escape.
The parlor’s nostalgic charm and creamy delights made it a Hollywood favorite. Imagine indulging in a sundae while the world outside sparkled with stardom.
It was a place where sweet dreams came true, leaving a delicious mark on Hollywood history. A treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.
9. Rainbow Bar & Grill (Formerly Villa Nova), West Hollywood
How did a restaurant become a rock ‘n’ roll landmark? Rainbow Bar & Grill, formerly Villa Nova, transitioned from a star-studded eatery to rock history.
Marilyn and Joe DiMaggio had their first date here. Cozy yet electrifying, it’s a spot where great food meets legendary music.
The lively atmosphere still echoes with the energy of a thousand stories. A place where romance and rock intertwined, leaving a legacy of glamour.
10. Barney’s Beanery, West Hollywood
This spot is a quirky legend! Barney’s Beanery is a vibrant slice of Americana. Known for its eclectic decor and hearty menu, it was a favorite of Marilyn’s.
The radiant atmosphere is a playful blend of rustic charm and colorful antics. Imagine grabbing a burger while surrounded by Hollywood’s creative minds.
Truly, a place where casual dining meets star-studded tales. Barney’s quirky character continues to attract visitors from all walks of life.
