Sabbatikos

In Hollywood there stands a legendary establishment that has witnessed the glamour and history of Tinseltown for over a century—Musso & Frank Grill. Since its opening in 1919, Musso & Frank has been a Hollywood institution, offering old-school classic charm, exceptional service, and food served with a dash of Hollywood’s golden age. We were going to be visiting LA for the 4^th of July holiday and decided our 25^th wedding anniversary (and 30 years as a couple) would be a good excuse to splurge on an epic meal. And epic it was!

Located on Hollywood Boulevard, Musso & Frank is in the heart of Hollywood’s tourist district, not our favorite part of town. However, the iconic neon sign outside beckoned us into a venue where the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, and F. Scott Fitzgerald once dined.

Walking into Musso & Frank is like stepping into a bygone era. The restaurant’s interior is a stunning homage to the past; classic red leather semi-circle booths tucked into dark wood paneling with high backs for privacy, and anonymity further ensured by dimly lit vintage chandeliers. Every corner of Musso & Frank exudes Hollywood history, making it a favorite spot for both locals, tourists, and sometimes the famous, seeking a great serving of the Hollywood experience.

Hollywood stars have long made Musso & Frank their go-to spot. From silent film actors to modern-day celebrities, Musso & Frank have hosted them all. It has also long been a gathering place for literary legends. The famous Writers’ Room, a private dining area, has hosted the likes of Ernest Hemingway, William Faulkner, and Raymond Chandler. These literary giants found inspiration within these walls, penning their masterpieces over a hearty meal and a stiff drink.

The ambiance, the history, and the impeccable service create an irresistible allure and the interior photo policy allows them some privacy for a night out, with their famous faces tucked into private booths or lost in the throng of the kinetic bar.

We arrived early, so we could visit the bar and start our evening with their famous Musso & Frank Martini (always stirred, never shaken).

A little after 9pm our booth was ready and we were whisked out of the busy bar and into our dark and private booth where we were greeted with an envelope congratulating us for our 25 years. We didn’t waste time, we knew exactly what we wanted and ordered from the classic menu; rarebit, onion soup, prime rib, filet mignon, ribeye, and the Original Fettuccine Alfredo.

Legend has it, Hollywood silent era film stars Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford, discovered Fettucine Alfredo while on honeymoon in Rome at Alfredo Alla Scrofa restaurant. They begged for, but were denied, the recipe. They returned the next night with a golden fork and spoon, convincing Alfredo to share it. They brought the recipe back to Hollywood, where Musso and Frank prepared it for them. Even so, it was never added to the menu. However, today the statute of limitations has probably run out and it is prominently featured on their menu.

While the food and atmosphere were wonderful, the true stars of the evening were the staff, many of whom have dedicated decades or even their entire careers to Musso and Frank. Their impeccable and personable service made each of us feel like a star.

A visit to Musso & Frank Grill is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. A great place to celebrate a silver anniversary. Perhaps we’ll be back for our pearl anniversary.