Have you ever daydreamed about what it would be like to star alongside Diane Keaton, Robert Redford, Christina Applegate, Scarlett Johansson, or even Vince Vaughn? Let’s be real – You may never get that chance, but you can step inside some of the most iconic restaurants which have been graced by their presence. With dazzling personalities and impressive histories, it’s no wonder these Rewards Network program restaurants were chosen to appear on the small and big screen.
1760 N Vermont Ave, Hollywood, CA
There is no doubt that a visit to The Dresden is like stepping back in time. Reminiscent of the supper clubs made popular by the Rat Pack in the ‘50s, the atmosphere was the perfect backdrop for several Hollywood productions including Tom Hanks’ That Thing You Do, Swingers (starring Vince Vaughn), What Women Want (starring Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt). There were slight cosmetic alterations done for the Dresden to play its part in the films, but never as much as when it was transformed into a Mexican restaurant Escupimos en su Alimento, which translates to “We Spit in Your Food”, for the cult classic Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.
168 1st Ave, New York, NY
With an owner still as passionate about the authentic Italian food that has been churned out of this kitchen for the last 110 years, this New York eatery made it to the big screen in Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery. Starring Diane Keaton, Alan Alda, Anjelica Huston, and Allen himself, this restaurant was highlighted in the scene where the A-list gathered to debate over murder theories.
1226 Lexington Ave, New York, NY
When you experience this classic luncheonette complete with soda jerks and malts, it’s no surprise it has been selected as the set for numerous projects. Legendary talent has graced this diner while filming movies like Three Days of the Condor (with Robert Redford and Fay Dunaway), The Nanny Diaries (starring Scarlett Johansson), and most recently Fading Gigolo (with Woody Allen and John Turturro).
930 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD
Red Maple found itself in the spotlight when House of Cards filmed a few scenes at this extraordinary Baltimore locale. The contemporary tapas restaurant and lounge with fireside tables made the perfect backdrop for Zoe Barnes, played by Kate Mara, to have a couple of after-work drinks in the first season.
1475 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC
Its proximity to the White House and history make Occidental Grill and Seafood a quintessential DC destination. While the elegant interior plays host to politicians, celebrities, and tourists on a daily basis, the patio was taken over for the filming of the Captain America: The Winter Soldier in the spring of 2013. The filmmakers were looking for an outdoor area that personified DC and found the right spot. Pay close attention and you may notice the exterior of Occidental in commercials and other film projects too.
How can your restaurant be featured?
In addition to compensating property owners for time, there are other benefits to having your restaurant featured in a TV or movie production like property improvements, promotional opportunities, and a regional economic boost. If you are interested in registering your restaurant, check out your state’s film and TV production page usually found through the Department of Economic Development website. Here are a couple of resources to get you started:
