NYC's Best Restaurants For Celebrity Sightings
Celebrity sightings at restaurants are a common place, but sometimes even for jaded New Yorkers it is exciting to see a celebrity dining next to them. From Times Square to Midtown and the Meatpacking District, people can head to one of these restaurant to catch a glimpse of a celebrity. By John Friia/Annie Reuter
Carmine's
Multiple Locations
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Whether New Yorkers are walking around the Upper West Side or waiting to see a Broadway show in Times Square, they can head to Carmine's for family-style Italian cuisine and a chance to spot a celebrity. For over 25 years, Carmine's has attracted countless celebrities, including Drew Barrymore, Tina Fey, Ryan Lochte, Tim Gun and former New York Rangers Adam Graves.
Bagatelle
1 Little West 12th Street
New York, NY 10014
212-488-2110
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People can visit Bagatelle for a chance to see their favorite celebrity. Among the long list that have dined and returned to the restaurant, include Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, Sofia Vergara, Paris Hilton and the cast of "The Real Housewives of New York." Bagatelle once had Jamie Foxx step into the DJ booth during one of their vibrant parties.
The Polo Bar
1 East 55th Street
New York, NY 10022
212-207-8562
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One of New York's most exclusive restaurants is also a place to see a celebrity dining with friends or family. The Polo Bar has hosted Hillary Clinton, Andy Cohen, Gwyneth Paltrow and Tamron Hall. The space honors the Ralph Lauren brand with artwork of horses, polo matches and sports. People that snag a reservation can choose from a robust menu filled with seasonal American dishes, including the signature Polo Bar Burger topped with tomatoes, lettuce, onions, pickles, cheddar and crispy bacon.
Beautique
8 West 58th Street
New York, NY 10019
212-753-1200
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As people have an intimate dinner at Beautique in Midtown, they might not realize that beyond the kitchen is a high-energy lounge. The subterranean restaurant hosts internationally acclaimed DJs and celebrities, including Kendall Jenner, A$AP Rocky and Leonardo DiCaprio. While people dance the night away and rub shoulders with famous people, they can sip the French 75 with cognac, lemon and champagne.
Rao's
455 East 114th Street
New York, NY 10029
212-722-6709
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Reservations at Rao's might seem impossible, but for the lucky New Yorkers that get in should not be surprised to spot a celebrity. The East Harlem 10-table Italian restaurant has hosted Leonardo DiCaprio, rapper Fat Joe, former President Bill Clinton, former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, and baseball legend Hank Aaron. Rao's offers a memorable dining experience and a rotational menu, but people can always expect to order a dish of their meatballs.
The VNYL
100 3rd Avenue
New York, NY 10003
917-675-7725
Blending together the charm of old New York and today, The VNYL is a four-level restaurant in the East Village owned by actor Adrian Grenier. Inspired by the 1970s, this restaurant and bar is a spacious venue boasts comfy leather couches, a vinyl record collection and table service. Celebrities that have flocked to the East Village hotspot, include Lindsay Lohan, Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Questlove, Jason Sudeikis and Derrick Rose.
The Spotted Pig
314 West 11th Street at Greenwich St.
212-620-0393
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Jay-Z is an investor and regularly frequents this West Village gastropub. While the restaurant prides itself on privacy, Jude Law, Luke Wilson, David Schwimmer, Courtney Love and Mario Batali have reportedly been spotted here. Stop in and try their popular burger or grab a drink and people watch at the bar. Learn more here.
Spice Market
403 W. 13th Street
New York, NY
You can imbibe some Southeast Asian delicacies at the Spice Market, where Hugh Jackman once ran into Jill Zarin of "Real Housewives of New York City." Keep your eyes peeled -- you never know who might be dining nearby. Take a photo of the decorated restaurant interior, and feel free to sneak another of the celebrities at the table next to you too. Just make sure your flash is turned off!
Avenue
116 10th Ave.
New York, NY
212-337-0054
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A hotbed for celebrity gawking, former "Dancing with the Stars" partners Kirstie Alley and Maksim Chmerkovskiy have been spotted here. Vanessa Hudgens has also been seen dancing up a storm while Fergie and the rest of the Black Eyed Peas have performed at the club.
Lucky Strike
42nd St & 12th Ave
New York, NY
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Movie stars, musicians and athletes frequently go for a bowl at Lucky Strike. Gerard Butler, Jim Carrey and NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon are some A-listers that have visited the space. Known as the ultimate social entertainment experience, their Manhattan location includes a Luxe Lounge for the famous who'd rather remain discreet.
Southern Hospitality
645 9th Avenue
New York, NY
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An ideal place to wind down, the original location of Justin Timberlake's restaurant on the Upper East Side has hosted a secret show by the musician/actor/heartthrob. It's also where Derek Jeter went with then girlfriend Minka Kelly to celebrate his 3,000th hit. Relax and grab a pint or order some fried pickles.
Annie Reuter is a freelance writer and music blogger. She is the founder and head writer of YouSingIWrite.com.
