Cafe de Flore
Food, Travel

Real-Life Restaurants Featured in Movies and TV Shows Where You Can Actually Eat

Movies and TV shows often transport us to fantastic worlds and exciting locales, but some of these locations are real-life restaurants where you can dine just like your favorite characters. Here’s a roundup of 7-10 iconic eateries featured on screen that are open to diners today.

Nobu – Los Angeles, USA

Featured In: Entourage (2004-2011)

Nobu, the renowned high-end Japanese restaurant, is featured in Entourage as a hotspot for celebrities and luxury dining. Known for its fusion cuisine and sophisticated setting, it’s a top choice for high-profile dining. Nobu’s appearance in Entourage underscores its status as a glamorous and iconic dining destination.

What to Try: The Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño.

Ristorante Da Enzo al 29 – Rome, Italy

Featured In: Eat Pray Love (2010)

Ristorante Da Enzo al 29 is featured in Eat Pray Love as a charming Roman trattoria. Known for its authentic Roman cuisine, it’s a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.

What to Try: The Cacio e Pepe and the Carbonara.

Katz’s Delicatessen – New York City, USA

Featured In: When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Katz’s Delicatessen, a legendary New York institution, is best known for its appearance in the classic rom-com When Harry Met Sally. The famous scene where Meg Ryan’s character has a “fake orgasm” in the restaurant has become iconic.

What to Try: The Pastrami on Rye is a must-try, along with their legendary pickles and matzo ball soup.

Katz's Delicatessen Restaurant
Katz’s Delicatessen Restaurant | Photo by: Beleg Langbogen | CC BY-SA 4.0

The Gray Dog – New York City, USA

Featured In: Friends (1994-2004)

While not as famous as Central Perk, The Gray Dog served as an inspiration for the fictional coffeehouse in Friends. Located in the West Village, it’s a cozy spot where you can enjoy a relaxed meal.

What to Try: The Mac & Cheese and the signature burgers are popular choices.

The George Inn – London, England

Featured In: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

The George Inn, located in Southwark, London, is featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the pub where Sirius Black is briefly seen. Known for its historic charm and traditional British pub fare, it’s a beloved spot in London.

What to Try: The Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding and the Classic British Ale.

The George Inn
The George Inn | Photo by: Ewan Munro | CC BY-SA 2.0

Balthazar – New York City, USA

Featured In: Sex and the City (1998-2004)

This trendy restaurant in SoHo served as the inspiration for the fictional French restaurant Balzac in the show. It’s a famous Sex and the City location, often associated with the iconic scene where Carrie and Samantha use a rather unconventional method to get a table.

Known for its chic atmosphere and excellent French cuisine, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

What to Try: The Steak Frites and the Balthazar Burger are top picks.

The Smokehouse – Burbank, USA

Featured In: The Office (2005-2013)

Michael wants his baby back ribs, and this is the perfect place to get them. The Smokehouse, a popular steakhouse in Burbank, appears in The Office as a favorite dining spot for the characters. Known for its hearty American fare and classic atmosphere, it’s a local favorite.

What to Try: The Baby Back Ribs and the famous Garlic Bread.

Café de Flore – Paris, France

Featured In: Midnight in Paris (2011)

Café de Flore is a historic Parisian café featured in Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris. Known for its literary and artistic history, it’s a quintessential spot for enjoying French café culture. It offers a slice of Parisian history and a chance to experience the ambiance of a café beloved by famous writers and artists.

What to Try: The Café de Flore Specialities like croissants and café au lait are recommended.

Cafe de Flore
Cafe de Flore | Photo by: ayustety | CC BY-SA 2.0

The French Laundry – Yountville, USA

Featured In: Chef’s Table (2015)

The French Laundry, located in Napa Valley, appears in the documentary series Chef’s Table. Known for its exquisite fine dining and Michelin-starred cuisine, it’s a celebrated destination in the culinary world.

The French Laundry represents the pinnacle of fine dining and provides an opportunity to experience the exceptional cuisine featured in the series.

What to Try: The tasting menu, which features innovative and seasonal dishes.

Harry’s Bar – Venice, Italy

Featured In: The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

Harry’s Bar, located in Venice, is featured in The Talented Mr. Ripley. This historic bar is known for its classic cocktails and Venetian cuisine. Visiting Harry’s Bar allows you to experience a piece of cinematic history while enjoying a renowned Venetian institution. Dining here will give you a taste of the traditional flavors of Rome featured in the film.

What to Try: The Bellini and traditional Venetian dishes.

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