Have you ever wondered how the paparazzi get those candid shots of stars strutting or stumbling from the toniest clubs in LA or New York? You don't have to be one of the glitterati to mix and mingle with the rich and famous; you just have to know where to find them.
If you're a West Coast star-hunter, get to Los Angeles and make one of these hot spots your favorite haunt. Be forewarned, though: while LA style is ostensibly more freewheeling than New York's fashion-conscious standards, you'll still want to dress the part if you hope to get through the door at these chic clubs and bars.
Chateau Marmont
Chateau Marmont is a true Los Angeles muse known for both housing and inspiring creative minds and becoming a celebrity in its own right for over 80 years. From John Belushi to Jim Morrison, the Chateau has a star-studded and occasionally troubled history, but like a Mouseketeer with a checkered past, that only adds to its allure for some musicians and actors. The restaurant at Chateau Marmont is exclusive, but by all accounts provides an epic feast. If you go for lunch, you might just see a whippet-slim starlet indulging in a salad with dressing on the side and a glass of air at the table next to yours.
Hemingway's
Hemingway's has exactly the kind of vintage, yet bookish character you'd expect from its name. All the drinks on the menu are Hemingway-themed, but once you place your order, take your movable feast to the lushly appointed patio. The library at the club is extensive, but who has time to read when you're busy looking for a pop-star or a Kardashian?
The Spare Room
You might mistake something named The Spare Room for another boutique hotel, but you'd only be half right; although it's part of the Roosevelt Hotel, the spare in this case refers to bowling. The venerable Roosevelt offers its guests a miniature two-lane bowling alley and board games in the bar. Part of the fun for non-celebrities is hoping that someone Facebook-update-worthy might sneak in for a game of Jenga.
Soho House
One of the most exclusive LA hotspots is the Soho House situated in West Hollywood. The club's strict members-only policy keeps the paparazzi and celeb-stalkers at bay while providing their superstar clientele with everything from a private film room and a penthouse bar to a terrace lined with olive trees. The views from the top are stunning, especially when they include a few celebrities enjoying the high life.
Switching to the other side of the country the East Coast has its share of celebs as well, and that means there's no shortage of star-studded hangouts in the Big Apple. While VIPs have a habit of abandoning clubs in NYC just as they turn hot, a few staples remain in from season to season.
Top of the Standard
Top of the Standard is the quintessential New York celebrity hotspot. It has jaw-dropping views, the swankiest digs, and the hardest door to get through. IF you can get in, you'll be hobnobbing with an A-list crowd on creamy leather couches or dancing your face off next to 'you know who' while the likes of Kanye and other mega-stars belt out surprise sets from atop the bar.
PH-D
PH-D Rooftop Lounge is another awe-inspiring hotel haunt with impeccable views, an exclusive policy, and a reputation for lavish service. Situated at the top of the Dream Downtown hotel, PH-D is one of the newer spots to see-and-be-seen and offers plenty of room so rubbing elbows with your favorite stars doesn't become an all too literal expression.
La Esquina
To the uninitiated, La Esquina may sound like a fancy club, but it's actually a brasserie and bar situated below a taquería that specializes in serving Mexican delicacies and welcoming A-list crowds. When calling for reservations, it helps if you have a famous name, but everyone's welcome (as long as you book 21 days in advance). If you're lucky enough to get in, you'll eat some incredible carne asada, chile relleno, or ceviche washed down by an authentic michelada or two. You may be so distracted by the fantastic food, amazing tequila, and chill scene that you don't recognize Madonna sitting at the table right next to you.
Jimmy at the James Hotel
The elegant James Hotel in New York has a more casual side: Jimmy at the James, the boutique hotel's rooftop bar. Urbane and relaxed, Jimmy at the James Hotel has a more cerebral celebrity clientele; it's more Susan Sarandon than Snooki. The Jimmy is accessible to hotel guests, but it closes for private parties. Because it's small, that happens fairly often, so plan on visiting the hotel's other bars if you find a private shindig underway.
The Lobby Bar at the Bowery Hotel
The Lobby Bar at the Bowery Hotel has the kind of rich, clubby atmosphere you might expect from a century ago, and its standards of service are as high as its ambience would lead you to expect. If you're looking for somewhere that makes you feel glamorous, this is an excellent choice -- if you can get in, that is. Officially, you have to stay at the hotel to get into the bar; unofficially, stars are always welcome.
If you visit one of these trendy spots and find a rock star or two in the crowd, try to act normal. The hottest celebrities go to the most exclusive spots so they don't have to sign autographs.
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