Hollywood Mourns Dan Tana: Legendary West Hollywood Restaurateur Passes At 90

SoCal Says Goodbye to a True Hollywood Icon

Los Angeles is dimming its lights for one of its brightest stars - not a silver screen legend, but the man who fed them all. Dan Tana, the heart and soul behind the legendary Dan Tana’s restaurant in West Hollywood, has passed away at the age of 90. His death was confirmed by close associates on August 16, leaving a void in the city’s vibrant dining scene.

For those who’ve never cruised down Santa Monica Boulevard, Dan Tana’s is more than just a place to grab a plate of spaghetti - it’s a time capsule of Hollywood’s golden era. Since opening its doors in 1964, this Italian joint has been the go-to for A-listers and locals alike, serving up nostalgia with every bite of its classic dishes.

From the red-checkered tablecloths to the stories etched into every booth, Tana created a space that’s as much a part of LA’s fabric as the Walk of Fame. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy is far from over.

From Belgrade to Beverly Hills: Dan Tana’s Hollywood Journey

Born in Belgrade, Dan Tana’s path to Hollywood fame wasn’t the typical red-carpet story. He first landed in Canada as a professional soccer player, kicking goals before chasing dreams of acting in the U.S. But it was behind the scenes of Tinseltown’s dining world where he truly scored big.

While hustling as an actor, Tana worked at iconic LA spots like La Scala, soaking up the restaurant game. That grit paid off when he opened Dan Tana’s in 1964, taking over the old Dominick’s spot on Santa Monica Boulevard. Business started slow, but a glowing 1966 review in the Los Angeles Times dubbed it the city’s best new Italian spot, and just like that, Tana’s joint was the talk of the town.

“Dan Tana didn’t just open a restaurant; he built a family spot where Hollywood’s biggest names felt right at home,” said a longtime West Hollywood resident and regular patron.

A Star-Studded Hangout with SoCal Soul

By the 1970s, Dan Tana’s was the place to be, especially with the Troubadour music venue just a stone’s throw away. Rock royalty like Elton John and the Eagles were regulars, soaking up the old-school charm between sets. Rumor has it, the Eagles even penned their hit “Lyin’ Eyes” after people-watching over plates of pasta here.

The restaurant’s guest list reads like a Hollywood Hall of Fame - Frank Sinatra, Jack Nicholson, and George Clooney all had their favorite tables. Heck, there’s even a veal Milanese à la George Clooney on the menu! The decor, untouched for decades, still oozes that retro vibe, making every visit feel like stepping onto a classic movie set.

It wasn’t just about the food - though the Italian-American classics are unbeatable - it was about the warmth Tana brought to every interaction. His spot became a second home for generations of diners, from original patrons to their grandkids.

Dan Tana’s Enduring Legacy in West Hollywood

In 2009, Dan Tana handed the reins to a close friend, Sonja Perencevic, who vowed to keep the magic alive - and she’s done just that. The menu, the ambiance, the whole SoCal-meets-old-Hollywood vibe? It’s all still there, drawing crowds who want a taste of history with their tiramisu.

Dan Tana’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a community cornerstone. It’s where stories were born, deals were made over martinis, and Hollywood’s elite could let their guard down. Even today, it’s a must-hit spot for anyone craving that authentic LA experience.

As we mourn Dan Tana, his namesake eatery stands as a living tribute to his vision of hospitality. Whether you’re a celeb or just a curious tourist cruising through West Hollywood, stepping into Dan Tana’s feels like a warm hug from the man himself. His legacy - like the perfect marinara - will never fade.