Countless Celebrities Have Loved This Iconic Southern California Restaurant And Bar For Decades
By Natasha Kayes|Updated on May 27, 2024(Originally published March 07, 2023)
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
With all of the restaurants and bars in Southern California, and specifically in Los Angeles, there are a handful that have consistently drawn a celebrity following for decades. One such restaurant, The Polo Lounge, which grew from a hotel bar, has been a celebrity hotspot in Los Angeles for generations of Hollywood movers and shakers. Despite being known as Hollywood’s power-dining location, you do not have to be a star to eat here (but you just might see one!)
The Polo Lounge is the restaurant and lounge inside of the famous Beverly Hills Hotel. The hotel was built in 1912, the first hotel in the city, and was designated as a historic landmark in 2012. The restaurant got its name and gained popularity during the 1930s and 1940s.
The polished wood entrance to The Polo Lounge, adorned with a menu and historical photos, welcomes guests with the appearance of an exclusive club. A dress code is enforced, although relaxed and a bit more casual in the earlier hours, so leave the flip-flops at home and keep it classy.
The coolest dining room in the city is a luxurious, yet relaxed, vibe with its candy-striped ceiling, crescent booths, beveled mirror frames, and fresh flowers. This was once called “Hollywood’s commissary” and is as big a part of Hollywood life now as it ever was.
From the bar and lounge to the main dining room to the garden setting of the patio, there are particular seats that are sought out by those in the know.
There are so-called "power booths" where the big deals take place, seats that let you see everyone that steps through the front door, tiny private spaces for romantic dates, seats that keep you in the shadows but also in the know, and more.
Lush greenery, flowers, palm trees, Bougainvillea, and twinkle lights fill the pretty outdoor patio which is an idyllic setting for brunch, an afternoon cocktail, or dinner and star-gazing (both Hollywood and celestial!)
The Polo Lounge is the home of the famous McCarthy Salad, named after polo player Neil McCarthy who was a regular at the lounge in the 1940s, and the recipe has never changed.
Even the cappuccinos tell stories about the history of this place and its famous regulars through the years. Famed performers, like Charlie Chaplin and Fred Astaire, Hollywood deal-makers, socialites, etc. have been coming to The Polo Lounge to see and be seen for generations.
While many come for the Hollywood shoulder-rubbing, nearly everyone returns for the food. Whether you are here for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, you will be delighted by the contemporary dishes that blend classic American fare with an Italian touch and never disappoint.
Dining at The Polo Lounge is like becoming part of a long Hollywood story. Have you ever been to this celebrity hotspot in Los Angeles? We would love to hear about any Polo Lounge celebrity sightings you have had. If you are looking for more dining ideas, check out a few more bucket-list-worthy restaurants in SoCal.
For even more delicious eats in SoCal you can go on our road trip to the best barbecue restaurants in Southern California. With four spots to visit and a nice lengthy route, you will still have plenty of time to explore all the new spaces you will be visiting. Before you head out, you should take a look at our road trip packing list so you don’t forget any critical items.
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