Celebrity culture extends far beyond the world of movies, TV shows, and music. Some of the biggest names in entertainment have ventured into the culinary world, opening restaurants that showcase their personal tastes and love for food. These celebrity-owned establishments often carry a sense of glamour and exclusivity, attracting fans and foodies alike. Whether it’s a high-end restaurant serving Michelin-worthy dishes or a laid-back spot offering comfort food, these dining destinations are more than just places to eat—they are a fusion of star power and gastronomic excellence.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top celebrity restaurants that offer a taste of the good life, where the food is just as exciting as the famous faces behind the counters.
1. Nobu – Founded by Robert De Niro, Nobu Matsuhisa, and Meir Teper
Location: Multiple worldwide locations (New York, Los Angeles, London, Dubai, etc.)
Cuisine: Japanese-Peruvian fusion
When it comes to celebrity restaurants, Nobu is perhaps the most iconic. Founded by actor Robert De Niro, celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and restaurateur Meir Teper, this world-renowned chain combines Japanese and Peruvian influences into an unforgettable culinary experience. The restaurant is famous for its innovative sushi, including the signature Black Cod Miso and deliciously tender Yellowtail Jalapeño.
A Nobu restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to indulge in luxurious sushi and creative dishes in an ultra-chic atmosphere. Nobu’s success has turned it into an international brand, with locations spanning across the globe, from Los Angeles to London and Dubai.
2. Spago – Founded by Wolfgang Puck
Location: Beverly Hills, California (plus other locations)
Cuisine: California cuisine with European influences
Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck’s Spago is an institution in Los Angeles dining. Known for its elegant yet approachable approach to California cuisine, Spago offers a menu that is constantly evolving to incorporate the best local ingredients. Some signature dishes include the Smoked Salmon Pizza and the famous Lobster Salad.
Spago became synonymous with Hollywood’s elite in the 1980s when it first opened and quickly became a hotspot for celebrities to dine and socialize. If you’re in Beverly Hills and want to experience the epitome of fine dining, Spago is the place to be.
3. The Spotted Pig – Founded by April Bloomfield and Ken Friedman
Location: New York City, New York
Cuisine: Gastropub with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients
The Spotted Pig in New York’s Greenwich Village has gained fame as a celebrity favorite. Co-founded by April Bloomfield, an award-winning chef, and Ken Friedman, the restaurant was one of the first to elevate the humble gastropub experience. Known for its Chargrilled Burger with Roquefort cheese and the signature Shoestring Fries, The Spotted Pig offers hearty, comforting dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Celebrities like David Bowie, Beyoncé, and Jay-Z have been spotted enjoying meals at this cozy, stylish spot. The combination of delicious food, trendy décor, and celebrity clientele makes it one of New York’s most coveted dining destinations.
4. Jams – Founded by Jean-Georges Vongerichten
Location: New York City, New York
Cuisine: Contemporary American
Award-winning chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten has made a name for himself with a string of high-profile restaurants, and Jams in New York is one of his standout successes. The restaurant blends fresh ingredients with international influences to create inventive and mouthwatering dishes. The menu features classics like Crab Salad with avocado, and Parker House Rolls—but with a refined twist that is signature to Vongerichten’s style.
Jams offers a contemporary yet comfortable setting, perfect for dining in style like a true celebrity. It’s one of the best spots in New York to see not just incredible food but the rich and famous enjoying their meals.
5. Rocca – Founded by Robert De Niro
Location: New York City, New York
Cuisine: Italian
You can’t talk about celebrity restaurants without mentioning Robert De Niro once again. In addition to Nobu, De Niro is also behind Rocca, a stylish Italian eatery that serves both traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Guests flock to Rocca for its wood-fired pizzas, delicious pastas, and Italian-inspired cocktails.
The ambiance is upscale and relaxed, with a perfect balance between fine dining and neighborhood charm. The restaurant quickly became a favorite for locals and celebrities alike, cementing its place in New York’s gastronomic scene.
6. Pizzana – Founded by Chris and Caroline O’Connel
Location: Los Angeles, California
Cuisine: Neapolitan Pizza
If you’re craving Neapolitan pizza, Pizzana is the place to go. Chris and Caroline O’Connell, along with renowned chef Daniele Uditi, launched Pizzana with the goal of bringing authentic Italian pizza to Los Angeles. The restaurant has received rave reviews for its perfect dough, fresh mozzarella, and inventive toppings, including the famous Cacio e Pepe Pizza.
Hollywood stars like Kylie Jenner and Kourtney Kardashian have been spotted indulging in these mouthwatering pizzas. The warm, trendy atmosphere combined with exceptional pizza makes Pizzana a favorite hangout for both foodies and celebrities in L.A.
7. 212 Steakhouse – Founded by Asher and Roni Haim
Location: New York City, New York
Cuisine: Steakhouse
For the ultimate steak experience, 212 Steakhouse in New York delivers a luxurious dining experience for those craving top-tier cuts of meat. Asher and Roni Haim created the restaurant to be a high-end steakhouse that caters to New York’s elite. The menu features Dry-Aged Steaks, Wagyu Beef, and decadent sides like Truffle Mac and Cheese.
Celebrity guests and wealthy patrons flock to this elegant venue for a taste of luxury and the ultimate in prime cuts. If you’re looking to dine like a star and indulge in the finest steaks, 212 Steakhouse is the place to be.
8. Ellen’s Stardust Diner – Founded by Ellen Hart
Location: New York City, New York
Cuisine: American Diner
If you’re looking for a fun, energetic dining experience in Times Square, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a must-visit. Known for its singing waitstaff, who are aspiring Broadway performers, this retro-style diner offers classic American comfort food like Milkshakes, Burgers, and Mac and Cheese. Celebrities from Liza Minnelli to Justin Timberlake have dined here, attracted by the lively atmosphere and hearty meals.
Ellen Hart, the founder, created a one-of-a-kind experience where delicious food meets entertainment. If you’re in New York and want to see a show while you dine, Ellen’s Stardust Diner offers a fun and unforgettable experience.
9. Catch LA – Founded by Eugene Remm, Mark Birnbaum, and Michael Hirtenstein
Location: Los Angeles, California
Cuisine: Seafood and Contemporary American
In Los Angeles, Catch LA has become the go-to dining spot for celebrities, offering a menu focused on seafood and contemporary American cuisine. Founded by Eugene Remm, Mark Birnbaum, and Michael Hirtenstein, Catch LA has garnered attention for its Instagram-worthy dishes, including Lobster Mac and Cheese, Tuna Tartare, and show-stopping Crab Cakes.
With its stunning rooftop views and trendy ambiance, Catch LA is frequented by stars like Selena Gomez, Gigi Hadid, and Justin Bieber. It’s the place where food and celebrity culture collide, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to rub elbows with the stars while enjoying mouthwatering seafood.
10. The Butcher’s Daughter – Founded by Heather Tierney
Location: New York City, New York
Cuisine: Vegetarian and Plant-Based
For celebrities who prefer plant-based dining, The Butcher’s Daughter in New York City is the perfect spot. Founded by Heather Tierney, this stylish, plant-based café offers fresh and innovative vegetarian dishes such as Avocado Toast, Coconut Chia Pudding, and Mushroom Toast.
The restaurant is known for its healthy, Instagrammable meals and trendy atmosphere, attracting celebrities like Selena Gomez and Kendall Jenner. It’s the perfect place to grab a delicious, healthy bite while enjoying the vibrant energy of downtown Manhattan.
Celebrity restaurants offer much more than just great food—they provide an experience. Whether you’re dining at Nobu for an exquisite sushi dinner, enjoying a lively night at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, or savoring a fine steak at 212 Steakhouse, these dining spots bring together food and star power in unforgettable ways. Each restaurant reflects the unique personality and passion of its celebrity owner, making them not just places to eat, but destinations in their own right. So next time you’re looking for a meal that’s fit for a star, check out one of these top celebrity restaurants for a truly memorable dining experience.