For decades, famous actors have extended their talents beyond the screen and into the culinary world, turning their love for food into popular restaurants. From gourmet dining experiences to laid-back casual joints, celebrity-owned eateries offer fans the chance to dine like the stars. Whether it’s a sushi spot, a burger joint, or a refined Italian trattoria, these actors have made their mark on the restaurant scene, combining star power with great food. Let’s explore some restaurants owned by famous actors that are worth checking out.
Mark Wahlberg – Wahlburgers: More Than Just Burgers
Wahlburgers, owned by the Wahlberg brothers—Mark, Donnie, and their chef brother Paul—has become a household name. This celebrity-owned burger chain first opened in Hingham, Massachusetts in 2011, and has since expanded to dozens of locations across the U.S. What makes Wahlburgers stand out isn’t just the famous last name, but its emphasis on comfort food with a gourmet twist. The success of the restaurant even led to a hit reality TV show, which aired for 10 seasons on A&E. Whether you’re craving a burger, tater tots, or a signature shake, Wahlburgers is the place to experience a taste of the Wahlberg family’s culinary creativity.
Ryan Gosling – Tagine: A Moroccan Experience in Beverly Hills
Known for his versatility as an actor, Ryan Gosling also ventured into the food business with his Moroccan-inspired restaurant, Tagine, located in Beverly Hills. Co-owned with Chef Ben Benameur, the cozy yet upscale restaurant offers guests a unique and intimate dining experience. The menu, full of authentic Moroccan dishes, from lamb tagine to couscous, reflects Gosling’s passion for different cultures and cuisines. Tagine has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a warm atmosphere and rich flavors that transport diners straight to Morocco.
Lady Gaga – Joanne Trattoria: A Tribute to Family and Art
Lady Gaga’s restaurant, Joanne Trattoria, located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is a heartfelt homage to her late aunt, Joanne Germanotta. Beyond serving delicious Italian fare, the restaurant has a unique artistic edge. True to Gaga’s creative spirit, Joanne Trattoria not only supports local artists by hosting art displays, but it also features live performances from local musicians and regular drag shows. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Italian meal or looking for a restaurant that celebrates both food and art, Joanne Trattoria delivers on all fronts.
Robert De Niro – Nobu: Sushi with Star Power
Few celebrity restaurants have achieved the worldwide success of Nobu, co-owned by Robert De Niro and famed chef Nobu Matsuhisa. This luxurious Japanese restaurant has its roots in the 1980s when De Niro became a regular at Chef Nobu’s LA sushi restaurant. The two later partnered to open Nobu in New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood in 1994, and the rest is history. Today, Nobu boasts locations around the globe, with its blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and contemporary twists making it a hit among foodies and celebrities alike. De Niro’s dedication to high-quality dining is evident in every dish served at Nobu.
Michael Imperioli – Scarlet: A Speakeasy-Style Gem
Best known for his role on The Sopranos, Michael Imperioli has long had a passion for the restaurant industry. In the mid-90s, he and his wife opened Ciel Rouge, a speakeasy-style bar in Tribeca. Although the bar closed in 2005, the couple returned to the restaurant scene nearly 20 years later with Scarlet, located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The new venture continues the speakeasy theme, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and small plates. For fans of Imperioli, Scarlet offers a chance to experience his flair for both acting and hospitality.
Sandra Bullock – Walton’s Fancy & Staple: A Taste of Austin
Walton’s Fancy & Staple in Austin, Texas, is as charming and welcoming as its owner, Sandra Bullock. This upscale neighborhood café and bakery serves hearty comfort food in a casual setting. Opened in 2009, Walton’s is Bullock’s second restaurant in Austin, following the closure of her previous establishment, Bess Bistro. The menu features a mix of sandwiches, salads, and pastries, all made from scratch with local ingredients. Bullock’s love for Austin and its vibrant culture shines through Walton’s, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
Ludacris – Chicken + Beer: Southern Comfort with a Twist
If you’re in Atlanta, a visit to Ludacris’ Chicken + Beer is a must. Named after his successful album, this Southern-inspired restaurant serves up fried chicken and craft beers that are sure to satisfy. Located in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Chicken + Beer offers travelers a chance to indulge in some authentic Southern comfort food before catching their flight. Ludacris has created a menu that reflects his Southern roots, with a focus on hearty, flavorful dishes that keep guests coming back for more.
Norman Reedus – Nic & Norman’s: A Gastropub for All
Norman Reedus, beloved for his role as Daryl Dixon in The Walking Dead, co-owns Nic & Norman’s, a gastropub with locations throughout the Southeast. Co-owned with The Walking Dead director Greg Nicotero, this rustic yet refined eatery offers a menu that ranges from juicy burgers to fresh salads, all served in a laid-back atmosphere. Reedus’ fans will appreciate the actor’s personal touch throughout the restaurant, from the decor to the curated menu. It’s a perfect spot to grab a bite while enjoying the hospitality of one of TV’s most iconic stars.
Susan Sarandon – SPiN: Serving Up Ping Pong with Your Food
Actress Susan Sarandon took a unique approach to the restaurant industry when she co-founded SPiN, a chain of table tennis clubs and restaurants, in 2009. Combining the casual fun of ping pong with great food and drink, SPiN became a hit with its lively atmosphere and interactive dining experience. With multiple locations across the U.S., the concept has proven to have staying power beyond the initial ping-pong craze. For those looking for a fun night out with friends or a unique date spot, SPiN offers both delicious food and entertainment.
Dan Aykroyd – House of Blues: Music, Food, and Soul
Dan Aykroyd’s passion for music, specifically the blues, led to the creation of the House of Blues chain in 1992. Co-founded with Isaac Tigrett, who also started the Hard Rock Café, House of Blues quickly became a go-to spot for live music lovers. The chain blends Southern-inspired cuisine with live performances, offering a full cultural experience. Though House of Blues is best known for its music, the food—think BBQ ribs, cornbread, and fried chicken—is just as big a draw. Aykroyd’s dedication to the preservation of blues music and culture is evident in every House of Blues location.
Eva Longoria – Beso: A Taste of Glamour
Eva Longoria, the star of Desperate Housewives, ventured into the restaurant world with Beso, an upscale steakhouse in Los Angeles. Although the restaurant faced its fair share of challenges, it became known for its glitzy atmosphere and delicious food. Unfortunately, Beso ultimately closed its doors, but it remains a notable example of the risks and rewards of celebrities entering the restaurant industry. Longoria’s experience underscores the fact that even with star power, the restaurant world can be unpredictable.
Kevin Hart – Hart House: A Vegan Venture
Kevin Hart is known for his comedic talents, but he also tried his hand in the food industry with Hart House, a plant-based fast-food chain in Los Angeles. Hart’s goal was to create an affordable vegan option for those looking to enjoy meat-free meals. While the concept initially found success, it faced stiff competition in the crowded vegan market, and Hart House closed all of its locations in 2024. Despite the closure, Hart’s passion for healthy eating and sustainability helped raise awareness about the benefits of plant-based diets.
Issa Rae – Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen: Uplifting Communities, One Cup at a Time
Issa Rae, the powerhouse behind HBO’s Insecure, co-owns Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen, a café that focuses on uplifting Black neighborhoods in Los Angeles. With locations in Inglewood and View Park, Hilltop offers high-quality coffee, along with a menu of healthy and delicious meals. Rae’s restaurant serves as both a meeting place for the community and a hub for local artists and entrepreneurs. Her mission to create inclusive spaces reflects her dedication to supporting her community both on and off-screen.
Danny Trejo – Trejo’s Tacos: Where Bold Flavors Meet Bold Personalities
Everyone knows Danny Trejo for his tough-guy roles in films, but in real life, he’s all about bringing people together through food. Trejo’s Tacos, his chain of taco shops across Los Angeles, is a favorite among locals for its bold flavors and inventive takes on traditional Mexican dishes. The menu includes everything from vegan tacos to carne asada, making it a hit with all kinds of diners. Trejo’s larger-than-life personality is infused into the restaurant, creating a fun and welcoming vibe that keeps customers coming back for more.
Channing Tatum – Saints and Sinners: A Bourbon Street Favorite
Channing Tatum co-founded Saints and Sinners, a bar and restaurant located on New Orleans’ famous Bourbon Street. With its playful, bordello-inspired décor and lively atmosphere, Saints and Sinners is a go-to spot for tourists and locals alike. The menu features classic Creole and Cajun dishes, such as gumbo and po’boys, paired with a robust cocktail menu. Tatum’s love for New Orleans shines through every aspect of the restaurant, from its food to its festive ambiance.
Justin Timberlake – Southern Hospitality: Bringing Memphis BBQ to NYC
Justin Timberlake, a proud Memphis native, co-founded Southern Hospitality in 2007, bringing a taste of authentic Memphis BBQ to New York City. The restaurant quickly became a popular spot for fans of slow-cooked meats, southern sides, and great drinks. Although Timberlake may not be hands-on with the day-to-day operations, his influence is reflected in the restaurant’s attention to quality and its lively atmosphere. For those looking to enjoy a true Memphis BBQ experience in the heart of NYC, Southern Hospitality delivers on flavor and charm.
Jessica Biel – Au Fudge: A Kid-Friendly Haven
Jessica Biel co-founded Au Fudge, a restaurant designed with families in mind. Located in West Hollywood, Au Fudge combined organic, kid-friendly meals with a full bar and upscale dining options for adults. With play areas and nannies available for kids, parents could enjoy a meal while their children were entertained. Though Au Fudge closed in 2018, it remains a great example of how Biel tried to blend her passion for healthy food with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Jon Bon Jovi – JBJ Soul Kitchen: Pay What You Can
Rock legend Jon Bon Jovi opened JBJ Soul Kitchen, a nonprofit restaurant with locations in New Jersey. The concept is simple yet impactful—there are no prices on the menu. Guests are encouraged to pay what they can, and if they can’t pay, they can volunteer in exchange for a meal. JBJ Soul Kitchen is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community-driven initiative aimed at helping those in need. This unique concept aligns with Bon Jovi’s long-standing charitable efforts, making it a place where food and philanthropy come together.
Robert Redford – Zoom: Dining in the Heart of Sundance
Film legend Robert Redford co-founded Zoom, a casual yet sophisticated restaurant located in Park City, Utah, in the heart of the Sundance Film Festival. Redford’s influence on the restaurant was not just about food but also about creating a welcoming atmosphere for artists and filmmakers during the festival. Zoom became known for its relaxed vibe, farm-to-table cuisine, and stunning views. Though it closed in 2017, Zoom was a significant part of Park City’s dining scene for years.
Hugh Jackman – Laughing Man Café: Coffee with a Cause
Hugh Jackman is more than just a Hollywood star; he’s also a philanthropist who co-founded Laughing Man Café in New York City. The café, part of Laughing Man Coffee, donates 100% of its profits to support educational programs and community development in coffee-growing regions. The café offers a variety of coffee drinks and pastries, making it a great place for a caffeine fix while supporting a good cause. Jackman’s passion for making a difference is evident in every cup served at Laughing Man Café.
Final Thoughts
Celebrity-owned restaurants offer a unique opportunity to dine with a touch of Hollywood glamour. From upscale eateries to casual joints, these famous actors have brought their passion for food to the table, creating dining experiences that are both delicious and star-studded. Whether you’re a fan of sushi, Italian food, or Southern comfort, there’s a celebrity restaurant out there for every palate.
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