As a seasoned observer of the ever-evolving landscape of creative culture, I find myself intrigued by the emergence of these unique hotspots that have sprung up across Los Angeles and Montreal. From the enchanting Maru Coffee in Los Feliz to the covert Canyon Coffee in Echo Park, it seems as though the quest for the next hidden gem is a never-ending pursuit for the digital self-chroniclers of today.
In the golden age of Hollywood, specifically during the 2000s, the popular restaurants in Hollywood were as renowned as their famous actors. Establishments like Spago, The Polo Lounge, and Dan Tana’s were frequented by a multitude of stars who would navigate past swarms of paparazzi to enter their crowded dining areas. However, times have changed. Today’s celebrities, such as those on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, tend to prefer more discrete and low-key locations. These aren’t necessarily restaurants but rather upscale grocery stores, fitness centers, and coffee shops. The Hollywood Reporter spoke with over a dozen influencers and social media experts to create this current guide of where trendsetters convene in 2024. What we discovered is that the menu takes a backseat to a venue’s lighting and picture-perfect atmosphere. As one TikToker put it, “You choose the place for the shot.
1. The Bungalow
Run by veterinarian Brent Bolthouse from The Hills, this Santa Monica lounge boasts an impressive coastal view and attracts a mix of A-list to D-list celebrities. Lady Gaga is a frequent visitor, as per Bolthouse, while lesser-known stars like James Kennedy also drop by. “It’s amazing when someone with 3 million followers shows up at The Bungalow,” says Bolthouse about fostering relationships with content creators. “We’re not just fishing – if someone aligns with our brand, we might offer them a table with no minimum and cover their drinks. Many of them come on their own accord.
2. The Victorian
The Santa Monica eatery and event venue caters to both public events and private soirees for the vibrant young Hollywood scene. Adir Tal, one of the partners, has developed personal ties with numerous celebrities and social influencers over his two decades in nightlife and music. He proudly shares that these individuals often visit to lend their support. Instead of viewing such visits as a nuisance or a threat to brand integrity, businesses should welcome them, according to Tal. “Many establishments have regulations that hinder marketing efforts, like banning photographs or flash,” he explains. “We designed an aesthetically pleasing venue that influencers enjoy and use for content creation, and we encourage it. We don’t discriminate against them.
3. Belles Beach House
What’s lacking in this Venice tiki-style restaurant, as suggested by TikToker Kaila Uli, is a runway. She mentioned it during discussions about locations for model brunches, and that’s when she learned about Belles. The venue offers an intricate setting that encourages people-watching, with staff actively encouraging photography and videography. Content creators can produce content by filming each other while they ‘work’, and popular figures like Emma Chamberlain and Kendall Jenner have collaborated with Belles to endorse their beverage and alcohol brands.
4. ALO Gym
The elite gym situated atop the Alo Beverly Hills Headquarters is renowned for its high-end amenities (such as infrared saunas, cryotherapy chambers, and cold plunge pools), along with recording studios where content creators produce podcasts post-workouts. Individuals who are accepted into its database gain complimentary Alo apparel. Notable figures like Glen Powell and Kaia Gerber are often seen there, but it’s primarily a social hub for influential figures such as Jake Shane and Alix Earle.
5. Gracias Madre
You can enjoy a meal and record a video in its elegantly furnished open dining area, or unwind from the hustle and bustle of public life in one of this upscale vegan Mexican restaurant’s intimate indoor or outdoor spaces in West Hollywood. An added perk is that their food is quite tasty.
6. Barney’s Beanery
Interestingly enough, this popular gastropub chain, known for its casual, dive-like atmosphere, has recently attracted a new wave of Gen Z patrons, making it something akin to a hangout spot. As influencer and reality star Marco DelVecchio put it, “It’s like Soho House, but without the membership fees and with better food.” The Santa Monica and West Hollywood branches in particular seem to draw a significant number of young celebrities, such as Rob Rausch from Love Island and long-time YouTuber iDubbbz.
7. Offsunset
Ever since its debut in 2021, Offsunset has established its reputation as a celebrity hotspot, thanks to Stafford Schlitt’s carefully crafted guest lists featuring big names such as Leo and Kim K. “During COVID, we only had three tables available, and my friends were particular about the company they kept,” he explained. “Every invite needed to be approved through my phone.” This exclusivity attracted the ultra-rich. “Billionaires would gladly pay $55,000 for a table just to be part of it, and I even sold tables for $100,000.” Nowadays, Offsunset welcomes a diverse crowd on most weekend nights, which often includes TikTok stars, Instagram models, and YouTubers.
8. Community Goods
Tip-offs from Justin Bieber and Hailey’s frequent visits led people to discover an ordinary house on Melrose Street. Now, every weekend, a youthful crowd gathers outside, dressed in fashion recommended by influencers, seeking more than just coffee and pastries. They are drawn to the carefully selected items, such as unique hot sauces from independent labels or stylish stationery, and the Instagram-worthy, trendy decor.
9. Apt200
Established in 2013 by promoter Nathan Gannage, Apt200 was designed to emulate the ambiance of a dimly lit, casual living room setting often found at house parties, right here in Montreal. As Gannage puts it, “We offer an atmosphere that sets us apart from typical club environments.” Interestingly, he maintains that the popular internet figures who frequent the venue are more like actual friends than paid influencers. Among the notable patrons are rapper Kaytranada, singer Burna Boy, and music industry personality Zack Bia.
10. Maru Coffee
As a gamer exploring the digital landscape of L.A., I’ve discovered that the creative hub isn’t just confined to the glitzy Westside. Instead, I’ve been noticing an influx of intrepid content creators setting up shop further eastward over the past few years. Unassuming yet stylish cafes like Maru in Los Feliz (and Canyon in Echo Park, No. 11) have emerged as popular spots for both filming and being filmed, attracting food bloggers, Instagrammers, and TikTok sensations alike.
11. Canyon Coffee
According to TikToker Candace Reels of Canyon Coffee in Echo Park, “It’s a place worth visiting and perfect for observing people,” she says. “You’ll undoubtedly run into faces from the internet community there.” The owners describe it as not feeling like a typical “hotspot” because it was designed to be understated and discreet: “Our aim was to create a space that feels inviting, friendly, and welcoming. We only play records, don’t offer public Wi-Fi, and subtly encourage more chats and traditional activities.” However, as Reels notes, because influencers (with their hotspots and mobile Wi-Fi) are always searching for the next hidden gem to keep their content engaging, a distinct atmosphere can help make a place memorable. Unfortunately, once it becomes overexposed, they move on to the next undiscovered location.
Sportsmen’s Lodge (Off-Map)
The fashionable Studio City hotel, with an abundance of stylish retail stores like Reformation, Vuori, and Alo Yoga, along with numerous picturesque spots perfect for content creation, has emerged as a popular hotspot. As a Sportsmen representative explains, it’s the unique ambiance and authentic allure that are drawing in a continuous flow of notable figures, without requiring targeted influencer outreach programs.
Erewhon (Off-Map)
As a gamer, I’d say this upscale grocery store in Studio City, known for its collaborations with celebrities and influencers on trendy smoothie brands (Hailey Bieber’s being the most renowned, but Bella Hadid, Sofia Richie, and Winnie Harlow also have their own), is the epicenter of all the buzzworthy, social media-driven activities in L.A. Star shoppers are almost as captivating as the eye-watering prices.
Fryman Canyon (Off-Map)
These days, it’s challenging to go for a hike in Runyon Canyon without encountering a selfie stick every few steps. Instead, influencers are gravitating towards Fryman Canyon within Wilacre Park, which offers more open views. Amanda McCants, a TikToker, humorously notes that 70% of your Raya matches can be found on this trail, referring to the youthful, popular crowd who are capturing (and somewhat disturbing) the tranquil beauty of the well-maintained 2.5-mile path.
Here’s an engaging way I could rephrase that statement from a fan’s perspective:
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2024-10-12 22:25