Chateau Marmont

There’s something undeniably intoxicating about walking into Chateau Marmont. This iconic castle perched along the Sunset Strip has been the backdrop for countless Hollywood legends—and scandals—for nearly a century. It’s the kind of place where you half-expect to spot a major celebrity picking at their branzino in the lush courtyard, and honestly, you probably will.

Getting a table here requires some persistence. This is a proper five-star hotel, so forget about casually strolling in hoping for a seat. Brunch and lunch reservations are available online, but dinner is a different story—you’ll need to email, and availability can be hit or miss. The exclusivity is part of the allure, though. Once you’re in, sipping a $35 vesper while live jazz floats through the lobby, the price of admission starts to make sense.

Let’s be honest about the food: you’re not coming here for culinary fireworks. The spaghetti bolognese is the clear winner—mountains of parmesan melt into the pasta creating an indulgent, cheesy experience. The cocktails are strong and expertly made, which helps justify their premium prices. Other dishes can run a bit underseasoned, so manage expectations accordingly.

Chateau Marmont is less about what’s on your plate and more about the experience of being there. It’s perfect for impressing out-of-town visitors, celebrating with someone else’s corporate card, or simply basking in that unmistakable old Hollywood glamour. Just don’t be surprised when your two-hour table limit is up—the next batch of aspiring starlets is already waiting at the door.