Hollywood Celebrities turned Restaurateurs: Exploring Classic Era Icons and Current Stars
From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the hustle and bustle of the restaurant industry, many celebrities have ventured into the world of food and hospitality. Some have found success, while others have experienced the harsh realities of running a restaurant. This article will explore some of the most notable Hollywood celebrities who have turned restaurateurs, from classic era icons to current stars.
Classic Hollywood Icons Turned Restaurateurs
Many classic Hollywood stars have tried their hand at the restaurant business, with varying degrees of success.
- Frank Sinatra: The legendary crooner was a part-owner of Patsy’s Italian Restaurant in New York City, a favorite haunt of many celebrities.
- Dean Martin: Known for his love of food and drink, Martin was a part-owner of Dino’s Lodge, a popular Hollywood eatery in the 1960s.
- Thelma Todd: The actress, known as the “Ice Cream Blonde,” owned Thelma Todd’s Sidewalk Cafe in Pacific Palisades, California, in the 1930s.
- Alice Faye: The singer and actress owned The Palm Springs Racquet Club, a popular resort and dining spot for Hollywood’s elite.
Current Stars in the Restaurant Business
Today, many current Hollywood stars are also making a name for themselves in the restaurant industry.
- Robert De Niro: The acclaimed actor is a co-founder of Nobu, a high-end Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant with locations around the world.
- Ryan Gosling: The heartthrob actor co-owns Tagine, a Moroccan restaurant in Beverly Hills.
- Jessica Biel: The actress owns Au Fudge, a kid-friendly restaurant and bakery in Los Angeles.
- Mark Wahlberg: The actor and his brothers own Wahlburgers, a casual dining burger chain with locations across the U.S. and Canada.
Why Do Celebrities Open Restaurants?
There are many reasons why celebrities choose to open restaurants. For some, it’s a passion for food and hospitality. For others, it’s a business venture and a way to diversify their income. However, running a restaurant is no easy task, and many celebrity-owned eateries have closed due to financial difficulties or poor reviews. Despite the challenges, the allure of the restaurant industry continues to attract Hollywood stars, adding an extra dash of glamour to dining out.
Conclusion
From classic Hollywood icons to current stars, many celebrities have ventured into the restaurant business. While not all have found success, their forays into the world of food and hospitality add a unique twist to the dining scene. Whether it’s a high-end fusion restaurant or a casual burger joint, these celebrity-owned eateries offer a taste of Hollywood glamour.
