Formosa Cafe West Hollywood
Step into Old Hollywood at Formosa Cafe, a 1939 gem with a historic rail car and celebrity photos, serving Asian fusion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe
Formosa Cafe West Hollywood
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Old Hollywood at Formosa Cafe, a 1939 gem with a historic rail car and celebrity photos, serving Asian fusion.
"Dine in a vintage rail car surrounded by Hollywood history – a truly unique LA experience!"
🎯 Book a Rail Car Seat
Request to sit in the historic rail car for a truly unique dining experience!
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
The walls are covered in old Hollywood celeb photos – perfect for a photo op!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Rail Car Dining
Inside the restaurant
Dine in a genuine 1939 Pacific Electric rail car, a truly unique and nostalgic experience.
Old Hollywood Ambiance
Throughout the restaurant
Immerse yourself in history with walls adorned with photos of legendary stars.
Asian Fusion Cuisine
Dining areas
Enjoy a menu featuring delicious Asian-inspired dishes, with many recommending the walnut shrimp.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Dine in a Rail Car?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Rail Car Seat
Request to sit in the historic rail car for a truly unique dining experience!
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
The walls are covered in old Hollywood celeb photos – perfect for a photo op!
🍤 Try the Walnut Shrimp
Many reviewers rave about the Walnut Shrimp as a must-try dish.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Be prepared for paid parking lots nearby; it can be a hassle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Rail Car Seat
Request to sit in the historic rail car for a truly unique dining experience!
📸 Capture the Nostalgia
The walls are covered in old Hollywood celeb photos – perfect for a photo op!
🍤 Try the Walnut Shrimp
Many reviewers rave about the Walnut Shrimp as a must-try dish.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Be prepared for paid parking lots nearby; it can be a hassle.
💰 Pricey but Worth It?
Some find it overpriced, but many agree the atmosphere makes it worthwhile.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Formosa Cafe is celebrated for its incredible Old Hollywood atmosphere and unique dining experience, particularly the historic rail car. While many praise the delicious Asian fusion food and attentive service, some find the prices high and parking inconvenient. It's a place where the ambiance often steals the show.
"Delicious Chinese food with unique menu items all delivered in a fantastic old school Hollywood atmosphere. From the pictures on the wall of the great stars of the past and the booths where Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe and Burt Reynolds hung out, you can feel the history and reminisce about the past. The boa, lettuce wraps, scallion pancakes, fried tofu, and chicken salad all were excellent choices. They also had great drink choices. The only downside was that parking was in a paid parking lot and the restaurant prices were very high."
AdamLTW
"Come for the history, not the food.
There was a time period in Hollywood when Asia was fetishized. The architecture, Asian women in tight dresses, and the color red. This restaurant (and the Chinese theater) are relics of that history.
Ordered their lunch box as takeout on a weekday. To be fair, I think the appeal of this place is the atmosphere and interior aesthetic. You get the chance to sit in the theoretical exact same spot as some of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. I didn’t experience any of that, so I’ll just review the food.
Their food is targeted toward an older American generation who wanted to say they’ve had a taste of Asia without the actual commitment to eat anything authentic. But in a time when younger generations seek out the latest authentic niche food spot to post on their socials, The Formosa is far-and-away out of date.
The fried rice is under-seasoned, if seasoned at all. The orange chicken is edible but not orange and a tiny bit bitter. The walnut shrimp had a nice bite to it with your standard coconut flavoring. Generally speaking, their food is edible. And to top it off, it’s all rather overpriced.
I’m not the target demographic for The Formosa and I’m sure that many people go and have a great time. But, respectfully, if you’re not a tourist and you’re just looking for food, I would try looking elsewhere first."
Dylan Yang
"With the history of this place I was expecting decent to ok food but I was happily mistaken. Everything was fabulous and the fries cauliflower was the absolute best I have ever tasted. The service was attentive, the atmosphere was iconic, and the food was top notch. Must vist!"
Sarah Beckcom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Formosa Cafe is located at 7156 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046. It's easily accessible by car, ride-sharing services, and public transport. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing due to parking challenges.
Parking is available in nearby paid parking lots. Some visitors have noted it can be a hassle and an added expense.
For convenience, especially if you plan to enjoy cocktails, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings or if you specifically want to dine in the historic rail car.
Formosa Cafe is typically open Sunday-Wednesday from 12 PM to 11 PM, and Thursday-Saturday from 12 PM to 12 AM. Food is served until 10 PM nightly. Always check their official website for the most current hours.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Formosa Cafe. You only pay for food and drinks.
Yes, you can request to sit in the historic rail car when making your reservation. It's a popular spot, so book in advance! 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Formosa Cafe serves Asian fusion cuisine with American influences. Popular dishes include walnut shrimp, lettuce wraps, and orange chicken.
Some reviews mention that prices can be high, but many feel the unique atmosphere and quality of food justify the cost.
The Walnut Shrimp is frequently recommended as a standout dish. Other popular choices include the boa, lettuce wraps, and scallion pancakes.
While the menu is primarily Asian fusion, they do offer some dishes like fried tofu and vegetable dumplings that can cater to vegetarian preferences. It's best to inquire about specific vegan options when ordering.
Yes, Formosa Cafe offers takeout options, which can be a good way to experience their food if you prefer to dine elsewhere or are on a tighter schedule.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The cafe is filled with vintage decor, old Hollywood celebrity photos, and the iconic rail car, making it a very photogenic spot.
The rail car interior, the walls covered in black and white celebrity photos, and the unique architectural details are prime photo opportunities.
Yes, feel free to photograph your delicious meals! The presentation is often as appealing as the taste.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Asian fusion menu offers a variety of dishes that can appeal to different palates, though it's always a good idea to check the menu beforehand to ensure it suits your family's preferences. Keep in mind that it can get busy, particularly on weekends, so consider visiting during off-peak hours if you have younger children. While parking can be a bit of a challenge, ride-sharing can simplify arrival and departure. The restaurant's atmosphere is generally welcoming, making it a suitable spot for a family outing that combines a bit of history with a meal.
🥂 Couples & Date Nights
The Asian fusion menu provides a good selection of dishes to share, encouraging conversation and connection. Enjoying cocktails in this historic setting adds to the overall experience. While some reviews mention higher prices, the unique environment and the quality of the food are often cited as making it a worthwhile splurge for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.
📸 Instagrammers & History Buffs
The chance to dine inside a vintage rail car is a major draw for visually documenting your visit. Beyond the visual appeal, the cafe's deep roots in Hollywood history provide a rich narrative for enthusiasts. Understanding its past as a celebrity hangout adds another layer to the experience. Combine this with their well-regarded Asian fusion dishes, and you have a recipe for a highly shareable and engaging outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Hollywood History
+1One of the most distinctive features is the incorporation of an old Pacific Electric rail car into the dining space. This unique element offers an unparalleled dining experience, allowing guests to literally eat within a piece of transportation history. Many visitors specifically request to be seated in this iconic rail car, highlighting its appeal as a major draw.
+1While the ambiance is a significant part of its charm, some reviews suggest that the food, while enjoyable, might not be the primary reason for visiting for some. However, many still find the Asian fusion menu to be delicious and well-executed, with specific dishes like the walnut shrimp receiving high praise. The combination of historical significance and a satisfying culinary offering makes Formosa Cafe a memorable destination.
Navigating the Dining Experience
The restaurant's operating hours are generally from noon until late evening, with food service typically ending around 10 PM, so plan your meal accordingly. The menu at Formosa Cafe offers a blend of Asian fusion dishes. While some diners find the prices to be on the higher side, many agree that the overall experience, including the atmosphere and the quality of the food, justifies the cost. Popular recommendations include the walnut shrimp, lettuce wraps, and scallion pancakes.
Parking can be a consideration in West Hollywood. While there are paid parking lots nearby, some visitors find it to be a minor inconvenience. Opting for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft can be a convenient alternative, especially if you plan to enjoy the cafe's cocktail offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit