Today is Iconic American Restaurant Day! Here are some of our favorites:

Pacific Dining Car

Located at 1310 W. 6th St. and opened in 1921, this iconic LA fixture is almost 100 years old. When you enter the classic railcar, you can actually picture celebrities sitting there in the 1930s and 1940’s. Check out their vintage menu at www.pacificdiningcar.com.

Geoffrey’s Malibu

Formerly known as the Holiday House, Geoffrey’s has stunning views that overlook the Pacific Ocean. It was designed after World War II by Richard Neutra, winner of a variety of  architectural awards. Geoffrey’s Malibu has welcomed numerous Hollywood celebrities like Frank Sinatra & Marilyn Monroe. A member of our Watson family once saw Sean Penn sitting at the next table looking at the panoramic view of the beautiful blue sea.

Musso & Frank’s Grill

At 6667 Hollywood Blvd, this iconic relic of Hollywood was established in 1919. The vintage interior decor of red leather booths, an antique phone booth, and beautiful wood ceilings make it truly feel that you have stepped onto a movie set. The menu has barely changed in 100 years.  Due to its iconic status and proximity to Hollywood, Musso & Frank has been featured in numerous movies and television series: Ocean’s Eleven, Mad Men, and The Kominsky Method.  You’ll even find that Charlie Chaplin’s favorite dish was the grilled lamb kidneys.  

Cielito Lindo

This iconic restaurant of Southern California is in the heart of the famous Olvera Street, one of the oldest boulevards in Los Angeles.  Cielito Lindo is easy to find with its colorful facade, and they have been serving all Mexican favorites since 1934.  For the most authentic Mexican experience stop by Cielito Lindo for their taquitos smothered in green sauce. Then go ahead and tour the Avila Adobe on Olvera Street, the oldest standing residence in the City of Angels.

Lou Malnati

Though this one is not local, we had to mention the best, original Chicago deep dish.  Lou Malnati began working with his father who was instrumental in creating the deep dish pizza in 1940. In 1950 they co-managed Pizzeria Uno. With 30 plus years of experience Lou ventured out and opened the first Lou Malnati’s in Lincolnwood, Illinois.  As of April 2016 Lou Malnati owns and operates 57 restaurants in the Chicago Metropolitan area.  We order online and have it shipped to Los Angeles to satisfy our cravings.  It comes in a well sealed, good-looking box with cold packs. This amazing service lets us enjoy authentic Chicago deep dish from the comfort of our home in LA. 

What’s your go-to iconic American restaurant? Go support them today!