Celebrity-owned restaurants often get a bad rap. Many assume they’re overhyped cash grabs riding on a famous name rather than delivering genuine quality. But amidst the skepticism, there are standout establishments where A-listers have poured their passion, creativity, and business savvy into creating dining experiences that truly shine. From Hollywood icons to music legends, these 12 celebrity-owned restaurants across the globe prove that fame can indeed translate into fantastic food, memorable vibes, and a reason to book a table. Let’s dive into the list.
1. Nobu – Robert De Niro (Multiple Locations Worldwide)
When you think of celebrity restaurants, Nobu is often the gold standard. Co-founded by Robert De Niro, chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and producer Meir Teper in 1994, this Japanese-Peruvian fusion empire has grown from a single Los Angeles location to a global phenomenon with outposts in New York, London, Tokyo, and beyond. De Niro’s involvement isn’t just a name-drop—he’s a hands-on partner who helped shape Nobu’s sleek, sophisticated identity.
What makes it worth visiting? The food. Nobu’s black cod with miso is legendary—tender, buttery, and perfectly balanced with sweet and savory notes. Pair it with yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño or the tiradito, a Peruvian-inspired dish that showcases Matsuhisa’s knack for blending cultures. The ambiance—think minimalist chic with a touch of Hollywood glamour—elevates the experience. Whether you’re at the Malibu beachfront or the Dubai location with its Arabian Gulf views, Nobu delivers consistency and excellence that keep it a favorite among foodies and celebs alike.
2. The Nice Guy – John Terzian (with input from celebs like Justin Timberlake) (Los Angeles, CA)
Technically, The Nice Guy is owned by hospitality group H.Wood, led by John Terzian, but its celebrity ties—Justin Timberlake among its high-profile investors—make it a star-studded affair. This LA hotspot blends a Rat Pack-inspired vibe with modern Italian cuisine, drawing a crowd of A-listers and locals who appreciate its exclusivity (reservations are notoriously tough).
The menu shines with dishes like truffle pizza and spicy rigatoni alla vodka, but the real draw is the atmosphere: dimly lit, retro-cool, with leather booths and a speakeasy feel. Timberlake’s influence reportedly extends to the playlist, ensuring the tunes match the mood. It’s not just a place to see and be seen—it’s a legitimately delicious dining experience that lives up to its hype.
3. Wahlburgers – Mark Wahlberg, Donnie Wahlberg, and Paul Wahlberg (Multiple Locations, USA)
The Wahlberg brothers—Mark, Donnie, and chef Paul—turned their family burger joint dream into a thriving chain that’s now a household name. Starting in Hingham, Massachusetts, in 2011, Wahlburgers combines casual comfort with a touch of celebrity flair. Paul, the culinary mastermind, ensures the food holds its own, while Mark and Donnie bring the star power (and a reality TV show).
The signature Wahlburgers are juicy and flavorful, with options like the “Our Burger” (a classic beef patty with Paul’s special sauce) stealing the show. Sides like tater tots and sweet potato fries add a nostalgic kick. It’s unpretentious, affordable, and genuinely good—perfect for a laid-back meal where you might just spot a Wahlberg slinging patties behind the counter.
4. Tagine – Ryan Gosling (Beverly Hills, CA)
Ryan Gosling’s foray into the restaurant world came with Tagine, a Moroccan-inspired gem he co-owned in Beverly Hills from 2004 to 2015. Though he’s since stepped away, the restaurant remains a testament to his taste (and its current management keeps the spirit alive). Gosling reportedly helped design the intimate, dimly lit space, complete with Moroccan tiles and plush seating.
The menu dazzles with dishes like lamb tagine with apricots and couscous, bursting with rich, aromatic flavors. The chicken pastilla—a flaky pastry filled with spiced poultry and dusted with powdered sugar—is a standout. Tagine’s charm lies in its authenticity and attention to detail, proving Gosling’s involvement was more than a Hollywood whim.
5. Mother Wolf – Evan Funke (with ties to Quentin Tarantino) (Los Angeles, CA)
Chef Evan Funke’s Mother Wolf isn’t directly owned by Quentin Tarantino, but the director’s vocal fandom and frequent visits have made it a celebrity-endorsed hotspot with a cinematic edge. Located in Hollywood, this pasta-centric restaurant has become a darling of LA’s food scene, with Tarantino reportedly calling it “the best Italian in town.”
Funke’s handmade pastas—like the sfoglia alla Bolognese or the ricotta-stuffed tortellini—are works of art, paired with sauces that sing with flavor. The vibe is lively yet refined, with an open kitchen adding a touch of theater.
Whether or not you spot Tarantino sipping Chianti, Mother Wolf’s culinary prowess makes it a must-visit.
6. Sugar Factory – Various Celebrities (Multiple Locations, USA)
The Sugar Factory isn’t owned by one celebrity but has been heavily backed by stars like Kim Kardashian, Drake, and Pitbull, who’ve invested in or promoted its over-the-top dessert and dining empire. With locations from Miami to Las Vegas, it’s a playground of indulgence—think Instagram-worthy milkshakes topped with candy and burgers that don’t skimp on flavor.
The “King Kong Sundae,” served in a goblet with 24 scoops of ice cream, is a spectacle, while savory options like the truffle burger hold their own. Critics might call it gimmicky, but the execution is spot-on, and the sheer fun of it all makes Sugar Factory a guilty pleasure worth experiencing.
7. Chica – Lorena Garcia (with ties to Eva Longoria) (Las Vegas, NV)
Venezuelan chef Lorena Garcia’s Chica, located in The Venetian Las Vegas, got a boost from Eva Longoria, who co-developed the concept and lent her star power. This Latin fusion spot celebrates bold flavors from across the Americas, with Longoria’s Mexican heritage shining through in dishes like the short rib enchiladas.
The arepas—crisp outside, tender inside—are a highlight, as is the ceviche with its zesty kick. The vibrant decor and lively energy make it a standout on the Vegas Strip. Longoria’s touch ensures Chica feels personal, not corporate, and the food backs up the buzz.
8. The Bedford – Ashton Kutcher (with Wilmer Valderrama) (New York, NY)
Ashton Kutcher and Wilmer Valderrama teamed up with nightlife pros to open The Bedford in NYC’s West Village in 2018. Housed in a former carriage house, this upscale American eatery channels a cozy, homey vibe—ironic given its celebrity roots. Kutcher’s reportedly hands-on with the vision, aiming for a spot that feels like a friend’s dining room.
The menu leans into comfort with dishes like truffle mac and cheese and a killer roasted chicken. Cocktails are a draw too, with seasonal twists keeping things fresh. The Bedford’s charm lies in its understated elegance—proof that Kutcher’s got more than tech investments up his sleeve.
9. JBJ Soul Kitchen – Jon Bon Jovi (Red Bank and Toms River, NJ)
Jon Bon Jovi’s JBJ Soul Kitchen isn’t your typical celebrity restaurant—it’s a pay-what-you-can community hub with a mission to fight hunger. Launched in 2011 by the rocker and his wife, Dorothea, it serves up soul-warming American fare in a welcoming, no-judgment space. Diners can pay a suggested donation or volunteer in exchange for a meal.
The food—think hearty soups, herb-crusted pork, and seasonal veggies—is fresh, local, and delicious. It’s not about flash but substance, reflecting Bon Jovi’s down-to-earth ethos. Eating here feels good in every sense, making it a standout worth supporting.
10. Pastis – Keith McNally (with ties to Robert De Niro) (New York, NY)
Pastis, the iconic NYC brasserie, was reborn in 2019 with restaurateur Keith McNally and a nod to Robert De Niro’s Tribeca influence (he’s a longtime collaborator). While McNally drives the vision, De Niro’s fingerprints are on the vibe—a throwback to old-school French cool with a New York edge.
Classics like steak frites and escargots are executed flawlessly, while the bustling, tiled interior screams Parisian chic.
It’s a place where celebs and regulars mingle, and the food’s so good you’ll forget who’s behind it. De Niro’s knack for backing winners shines again.
11. Crossroads Kitchen – Tal Ronnen (with ties to Travis Barker) (Los Angeles, CA)
Chef Tal Ronnen’s Crossroads Kitchen, a plant-based powerhouse in LA, counts Blink-182’s Travis Barker among its biggest fans and investors. Since opening in 2013, it’s redefined vegan dining with dishes like artichoke “oysters” and mushroom “scallops” that rival their meaty counterparts.
The vibe is upscale yet approachable, with a wine list that impresses even carnivores. Barker’s punk-rock cred adds a cool factor, but Ronnen’s culinary chops are the real star. It’s proof that celebrity backing can elevate a niche concept into a must-visit.
12. Pinky’s – Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick (New York, NY – Hypothetical)
Okay, Pinky’s doesn’t exist—yet. But if Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick ever opened a spot (inspired by Bacon’s “Six Degrees” fame), it’d be a quirky, all-American diner with a killer breakfast menu. Imagine fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon (naturally), and a jukebox pumping ‘80s hits. Until then, we’ll settle for the real gems above—but here’s hoping!
Why These Spots Stand Out
What ties these restaurants together isn’t just celebrity ownership—it’s the commitment to quality, personality, and a dining experience that transcends the fame factor. Whether it’s De Niro’s global empire or Bon Jovi’s community kitchen, these spots prove that when stars align with talented chefs and a clear vision, the results can be deliciously unforgettable. So next time you’re planning a meal out, skip the skepticism and give one of these 12 a try—you might just taste the difference fame can make.
