In recent years, the celebrity dining scene in Los Angeles has evolved, leaving the once-popular restaurant Craig’s in West Hollywood facing a decline in star power. While the establishment was once the go-to destination for celebrity sightings, the dynamics have shifted, prompting photographers and fans to seek new venues for their encounters.
Craig’s, known for its signature dish, the Honey Truffle Chicken, was a vibrant hub for celebrity activity in the early 2010s. It became synonymous with sightings of big names like Kim Kardashian and George Clooney, often drawing a throng of paparazzi eager to capture the latest celebrity moments. However, according to veteran photographer sources, the trend has now shifted, and the allure of Craig’s has diminished.
Photographers are reporting a noticeable change in behavior among celebrities, with many opting to use back entrances to avoid unwanted attention. “The restaurant was — and is still — a celebrity hot spot,” one photographer remarked. “But most stars are using the back entrance, making it hard for photographers to get photos, and the ones that use the front door are not high on the celeb food chain.” This sentiment reflects a broader shift in both the economic landscape and social trends impacting the visibility of celebrities at Craig’s.
The change in clientele is evident, as photographers now find more lucrative opportunities at other establishments, such as Alba Los Angeles, which has become a new focal point for celebrity sightings. Stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Hailey Bieber, and Kendall Jenner frequent these newer venues, leaving Craig’s less appealing for those looking to capture high-profile images. The photographer commented, “You’re not going to make money off a photo of Heather McDonald,” underscoring the decline in demand for images from Craig’s.
Despite the changing trends, Craig’s continues to attract a range of notable guests. Last year, former Vice President Kamala Harris dined at the restaurant with her husband, Doug Emhoff, and a group of influential producers. These high-profile visitors prove that while celebrity sightings may be less frequent, the restaurant still holds a place in the hearts of some esteemed patrons.
While the nostalgia for Craig’s remains strong among long-time patrons, the restaurant now faces the challenge of adapting to a shifting landscape where once-bankable stars have moved on to new hotspots. One local resident, known for her connections to past celebrity haunts, shared that she now reserves visits to Craig’s for special occasions, such as Mother’s Day with her son, highlighting how even loyal customers have adjusted their dining habits.
As the celebrity dining scene continues to evolve, Craig’s must navigate the pressures of changing trends and shifting celebrity behaviors. The restaurant’s legacy as a premier destination may endure, but its current standing in the Los Angeles dining landscape reflects broader societal changes affecting the visibility and accessibility of celebrities.
