Just a few short years ago, the idea of hanging out in Hollywood held about as much appeal as spending an evening in New York’s Times Square. It was crowded, gritty, and—aside from enduring tourist attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Dolby Theatre—largely the kind of neighborhood you’d hurriedly pass through. But thanks to a fresh batch of world class restaurants, buzzy bars, and glossy hotels, the historic neighborhood is suddenly poised to reclaim its throne as one of Los Angeles’ best to see and be seen.
These days, most of the action is centered around the neighborhood’s newly revitalized Vinyl District—a highly-walkable eight-block stretch nestled in the shadow of the iconic Capitol Records Building between Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards—but there are plenty of hot spots just a stone’s throw away as well. In fact, Hollywood boasts so many great destinations that it’s entirely possible to spend more than a few evenings hopping around the neighborhood and still not see them all. To make it a little easier, we’ve compiled some of our favorites below.
Where to Eat
The star of the Vinyl District’s dining scene, Mother Wolf is an ode to classic Roman cuisine. The massive dining room is decorated in lush shades of red and accented by gleaming, beveled mirrors and always filled with well-healed revelers lingering over negronis and heaping plates of Chef Evan Funke’s carbonara and cacio e pepe.
Horses
Though located on a quiet stretch of Sunset on the western edge of Hollywood, Horses is one of the hottest reservations in town. It's the kind of place where snagging a table makes you feel very in-the-know. Still, with its old school charm and convivial atmosphere, it somehow manages to feel like a neighborhood spot. Come early to beat the crowd, grab a seat at the bar, and order the endive Caesar salad and the secret pasta with vodka sauce.
Where to Drink
A recording studio by day and a lively music venue by night: Gold Diggers is one of Hollywood’s most unique—and memorable—destinations. There’s always something worthwhile on the event calendar, from all-vinyl dance parties to show tune singalongs. And just in case you’re having so much fun you don’t want to leave, there are 11 chicly designed guest rooms upstairs complete with Sonos speakers and Parachute linens.
Where to Stay
Though technically The Aster is a private club, it’s entirely possible to make it your homebase for a few nights without a membership: its 35 well-appointed guest rooms are open to anyone to book. Located right in the heart of Hollywood, just steps away from the Vinyl District, The Aster is also worth a visit even if you aren’t staying overnight; its stellar rooftop restaurant, Lemon Grove, boasts a deliciously innovative menu of citrus-driven fare as well as some of the best views in Hollywood. You’ll feel like you’re in on one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Mama Shelter
Eclectic, youthful, fun: Mama Shelter is the kind of hotel that feels like its own little world. And though it’s a short walk from the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks—Amoeba Records, Arclight Cinema, and The Hollywood Walk of Fame—there’s plenty within its walls to keep you from venturing beyond its walls, including a Cali-inspired restaurant, bustling cafe, and convivial ground floor bar. The sun-drenched rooftop, however, is the real draw; with its colorful seating, playful snack menu, and live entertainment, it always feels like the best party in town.
The Thompson Hollywood
Located in the epicenter of the Vinyl District on trendy Wilcox Ave, the recently-opened Thompson is an elegant ode to California Mid-century Modernism, with just the right amount of Old Hollywood glamor. The decor is colorful yet understated, with plenty of clean lines, lush velvet, and warm wood. Upstairs, there’s a serene rooftop pool, while many guest rooms have private balconies from which to take in views of the Hollywood Hills.
