From the North Coast to San Diego, several bars and restaurants in California have served as filming locations for well-known movies. These establishments continue to attract visitors who want to experience a piece of film history.
In Sacramento, Club Raven—known locally as “The Dirty Bird”—was featured in the 2017 film Lady Bird. While the main character does not enter the bar, it remains a notable spot for fans of the movie.
On the Sonoma coast, The Tides Wharf & Restaurant appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 thriller The Birds. According to reports, the owner allowed filming there in exchange for a small speaking role. The restaurant now offers piano bar nights and seafood dinners.
San Francisco’s Tosca Cafe was used in Basic Instinct (1992), where Michael Douglas’ character is seen drinking. The cafe has been open for nearly a century and serves drinks like its signature House Cappuccino 1919—a cocktail created during Prohibition. Sean Penn reportedly helped keep Tosca Cafe open when it faced closure in 2013.
The Hitching Post II in Buellton played a key role in Sideways (2004). Known for Santa Maria-style barbecue and an extensive wine list that includes Pinot Noirs and Merlot blends, it attracts both movie fans and food enthusiasts.
Burbank’s Smoke House has been operating since 1946 and appeared in both La La Land (2017) and Argo (2013). Located near Warner Bros. Studios, it has hosted celebrities such as Bob Hope, Judy Garland, and George Clooney over the years.
In Los Angeles, The Dresden featured prominently in Swingers (1996), with live performances by house act Marty & Elayne still ongoing several nights each week. The bar is also known for its long-standing house cocktail, Blood & Sand.
West Hollywood’s Formosa Café was shown in L.A. Confidential (1997). Since opening in 1939 near United Artists studios, it has welcomed stars from Clark Gable to Brad Pitt. Its current menu combines classic cocktails with contemporary dishes.
The Prince Bar & Restaurant in Koreatown served as a setting for Chinatown (1974) and later appeared on television series such as Mad Men and New Girl. It is recognized today for its Korean-style fried chicken.
Cicada Restaurant & Club occupies an Art Deco building downtown Los Angeles that became famous after Julia Roberts dined there with Richard Gere in Pretty Woman (1990). While escargot may no longer be on offer, guests can enjoy retro cocktails alongside modern cuisine during live music events.
Paco’s Tacos Cantina provided the backdrop for Tom Cruise’s first date scene with Renee Zellweger in Jerry Maguire (1996). Visitors can order traditional Mexican dishes or sit at tables seen onscreen.
Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace near Joshua Tree National Park began as a set built by Roy Rogers and Gene Autry for western films before becoming a real bar hosting musical acts today.
Finally, Kansas City Barbecue in San Diego was used for scenes from Top Gun (1986), including Tom Cruise singing “You’ve Got That Loving Feeling.” The establishment displays memorabilia from both local military patrons and the film itself.
