Stargazing in the City of Angels: Where To Find LA’s Elite
By: Olivia Nerpouni
The excitement of celebrity culture sparkles like city lights in the glitzy universe of Los Angeles. From the iconic palm-lined streets of Beverly Hills to the trendy enclaves of West Hollywood, the City of Angels is a playground where stars and star-seekers come together. But where do the A-listers really hang out when they are not on the red carpet? Contrary to popular belief, celebrity stars are not always confined to exclusive clubs or haute couture boutiques. For a more organic encounter with the rich and famous, celebrity hopefuls have to do one thing – act normal!
For those seeking an authentic brush with Hollywood royalty, consider strapping on your hiking boots and embarking on an adventure through the picturesque trails of Runyon Canyon. Located in the rolling hills of Hollywood, this scenic trail not only treats hikers to panoramic views of the city skyline, but also provides ample opportunities for spontaneous celebrity encounters. Some stars that have been spotted at Runyon Canyon in recent years include Channing Tatum, Shawn Mendes, Justin Bieber, Amanda Seyfriend, Chris Pine, and more. So grab your water bottle and camera – your favorite actor might just be a few paces ahead.
Perched above the busy streets of West Hollywood, CATCH LA restaurant is a place where seafood and celebrity sightings converge. Its retractable rooftop and one-of-a-kind views of downtown Los Angeles offer an unforgettable dining experience. Every aspect of the ambiance is designed to tantalize the senses, and CATCH LA’s sophisticated atmosphere attracts the attention of A-listers city-wide. From truffle sashimi to A5 Japanese Wagyu, the menu is as star-studded as the clientele. Keep your eyes peeled – Cindy Crawford or Sylvester Stallone might be seated at the table next to you!
Along the picturesque coastline, the Malibu Country Mart is known not only for its upscale shopping and dining, but also for its star-studded selection of visitors. Here, guests can explore designer boutiques and artisanal shops, where you might spot stars like Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, or Kate Beckinsale enjoying a smoothie and a moment of anonymity. Beyond celebrity sightings, the Mart welcomes locals and visitors alike to indulge in gourmet cuisine or sip cocktails with ocean views, making it a must-see destination in Los Angeles.
Since its grand opening in 2011, Craig’s has been a magnet for the Hollywood elite. Located on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood, this cozy eatery serves up classic American comfort food with a side of star power. Jennifer Lopez, Hugh Jackman, Brad Pitt, and George Clooney are just a handful of celebrities that have dined at the establishment since its opening. From juicy burgers to vegan delicacies, Craig’s has something on their menu for every palate. And who knows? You might just spot your favorite A-lister while savoring a slice of Hollywood history.
For paparazzi and celebrity enthusiasts alike, the red carpet at TCL Chinese Theatres is a prime location to catch a glimpse of famous stars. Whether attending a highly-anticipated film premiere, a star-studded fundraiser, or an exclusive restaurant opening, celebrities often make appearances at the movie theater to mingle with fans and industry insiders. But even when the red carpet is not rolled out for a premiere, a visit to TCL Chinese Theatres is still a must for anyone seeking a brush with Hollywood royalty. As you stroll through the Forecourt of the Stars, you will be surrounded by the handprints and signatures of legendary actors and actresses from decades past, immortalized in concrete for generations to come. Each footprint reflects years of cinematic legacy, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of their moviestar favorites.
In the City of Angels, celebrity sightings can be as common as palm trees and sunshine – if you know where to look. So, whether you are hiking through Runyon Canyon or dining at Craig’s, keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready – you’ll never know when you’ll cross paths with a Hollywood icon!