Musso & Frank Grill

Musso & Frank Grill Los Angeles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Musso & Frank Grill is not just a restaurant—it’s a living testament to Hollywood’s golden era, where history, culture, and classic American dining converge. Opened in 1919, this legendary establishment has welcomed generations of stars, writers, and filmmakers. Its enduring charm is reflected in its preserved ambiance, signature cuisine, and location amid Hollywood’s most iconic landmarks.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit: history, visiting hours, reservation tips, menu highlights, accessibility information, nearby attractions, and more. For official updates, visit the Musso & Frank Grill website, and see further insights from The Real Los Angeles Tours and Star Track Tours.

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Years (1919–1927)

Musso & Frank Grill began life as Frank’s Café in 1919, opened by Firmin “Frank” Toulet at 6669 Hollywood Boulevard, when Hollywood was still a fledgling neighborhood (Hollywood Photos). It quickly became a destination for the East Coast film community and was soon renamed Frank’s François Café. In 1923, Toulet partnered with Joseph Musso, and the restaurant adopted its current name (Wikipedia). French chef Jean Rue, whose tenure spanned 53 years, established a menu that still influences the kitchen today (Bite Eat Repeat).

Ownership Transitions and Relocation (1927–1930s)

In 1927, the restaurant was purchased by Joseph Carissimi and John Mosso, Italian immigrants who moved Musso & Frank next door to its present address at 6667 Hollywood Boulevard (Musso & Frank Official History; LA Conservancy). This era also saw the debut of the exclusive Back Room in 1934, a private enclave for Hollywood’s elite (LA Ghost Tour).

The Golden Age of Hollywood and Literary Connections

By the 1930s and 1940s, Musso & Frank Grill had become the heart of Hollywood’s creative community, frequented by writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald (who proofread novels in its booths) and Orson Welles (who worked on “Citizen Kane” here) (The Real Los Angeles Tours; LA Conservancy). The proximity to the Stanley Rose Bookstore fostered a unique synergy with the literary world. Edmund Wilson’s “The Boys in the Back Room” chronicled the writers who made Musso & Frank their base (The Real Los Angeles Tours).

Hollywood Legends and Enduring Celebrity Appeal

Hollywood’s biggest names—Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Rita Hayworth, Steve McQueen, Alfred Hitchcock, and many more—have dined here (Discover Los Angeles; Secret Los Angeles; Magazine C). Chaplin’s favorite booth is still a highlight. Today, the restaurant continues to attract stars and industry insiders, with its New Room preserving the original 1934 furnishings (LA Conservancy).

Culinary Traditions and Signature Dishes

Musso & Frank Grill’s menu is a celebration of classic American and continental fare, featuring dishes unchanged for decades. In 1927, it was the first restaurant in America to serve fettuccine Alfredo, courtesy of Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks (Wikipedia). Other classics include Welsh rarebit, lobster Thermidor, sand dabs, chicken pot pie (Thursdays only), and the legendary martini, often considered the best in Los Angeles (Bite Eat Repeat). The restaurant is also known for the longevity of its staff, with only three executive chefs in over a century and legendary bartender Manny Aguirre renowned for his martinis (Hollywood Photos).

Visiting Hours, Reservations, and Entry

Current Hours (as of July 2025):

Tuesday – Saturday: 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Sunday: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Closed Mondays

Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially for evenings and weekends. Book via phone at (323) 467-7788 or online at the Musso & Frank website (Hollywood Partnership).

Tickets/Entry Fees: None. Pay only for your meal and drinks.

Dress Code and Ambience

While Musso & Frank Grill does not enforce a strict dress code, smart casual attire is encouraged to match the elegant, historic setting (ShunVogue).

Recommended: Collared shirts, dress pants, dresses, stylish separates.
Discouraged: Athletic wear, flip-flops, tank tops, shorts.

The restaurant’s classic interior—wood paneling, red leather booths, and vintage décor—evokes old Hollywood glamour.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking: Validated valet parking is available at the rear for a flat fee of $25 (Hollywood Partnership). Street parking is limited; public transit options include the Hollywood/Vine Metro Red Line station.

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, including entrances and restrooms. Notify staff of any special needs when reserving.

Musso & Frank Grill’s menu is a showcase of timeless American steakhouse favorites:

Prime Steaks: Bone-in ribeye, filet mignon, prime rib
Seafood: Lobster Thermidor, sand dabs, crab Louie
Appetizers: Meatballs & Polenta, Shrimp Cocktail, Grilled Portobello Mushroom
Classic Dishes: Welsh rarebit, Reuben pastrami sandwich
Sides: Lyonnaise potatoes, potatoes au gratin, sautéed mushrooms
Desserts: New York cheesecake, diplomat pudding

Cocktails: The iconic stirred martini, Manhattan, Negroni, and Sazerac (CN Traveler).

Dietary Options: Vegetarian choices available; vegan and gluten-free options are limited—call ahead for details.

(Musso & Frank official menu; The Infatuation)

Special Events, Tours, and Group Dining

Occasionally, Musso & Frank hosts special events and themed dinners honoring Hollywood history. Guided tours can sometimes be arranged through local providers. For private dining or group events, early planning is recommended (Musso & Frank official menu).

Service and Atmosphere

The restaurant is celebrated for its old-school hospitality—many servers have decades of experience. Evenings offer a vibrant, nostalgic atmosphere, and the bar is a popular spot for classic cocktails and solo diners (CN Traveler). Weekends and award seasons are busiest; weeknights provide a quieter experience.

Location and Nearby Attractions

Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 467-7788
Website: mussoandfrank.com

Situated in the heart of Hollywood, Musso & Frank Grill is steps from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Pantages Theatre, and other landmarks (Questo). It’s an essential stop on any Hollywood historical site itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need a reservation?
A: Strongly recommended, especially for evenings and weekends.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, you only pay for your meal and drinks.

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Smart casual attire is encouraged.

Q: Are there vegetarian/gluten-free options?
A: Vegetarian options are available; gluten-free and vegan options are limited.

Q: Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with accessible entrances and restrooms.

Q: Can I host private events?
A: Yes, with advance notice.

Visual Experience and Media Enhancements

Enhance your planning with images of the dining room, classic dishes, and cocktails. Virtual tours and maps are available on travel apps and the official website.

Booking and Contact

Reservations: Musso & Frank Reservations
Menu & Hours: Musso & Frank Menu
Instagram: @mussoandfrank

Summary & Recommendations

Musso & Frank Grill is a living monument to Hollywood’s past, offering an authentic experience that blends timeless cuisine, storied atmosphere, and a prime location among the city’s most celebrated sites. With its legendary dishes, welcoming staff, and historical ambiance, it remains a must-visit for anyone seeking the true spirit of Los Angeles. For a seamless experience, make reservations in advance, dress smartly, and plan to explore nearby Hollywood attractions. For the latest updates and travel inspiration, follow Musso & Frank Grill on social media and consider the Audiala app for curated Hollywood experiences and tours.