Taste of LA: Historic Gourmet Trolley Tours by LA Explained
This Spring and Summer, LA Explained invites hungry, history-loving Angelenos to step aboard a historic fleet of rare, restored trolleys for a one-of-a-kind gourmet tour through time, space, and taste.
This Season's Lineup features five legendary stops—Grandmaster Recorders, Formosa Café, Tail O' The Pup, and The Montalbán Theatre. Get ready to explore countless stories and savor the flavors that defined LA’s culinary and cultural landscape.
Climb aboard one of our Brunch or Sunset Cruises on Sundays (Starting May 18th) as we journey to some of the city’s most delicious destinations, exploring LA’s iconic architecture, vibrant culture, and diverse cuisine. Each stop is a celebration of the flavors and stories that define Los Angeles—brought to life through expert-guided tours, private menu tastings, and exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to some of the city’s most beloved eateries and iconic establishments. Welcome to Taste of: LA Gourmet Trolley Tours!
From iconic dishes to off-menu delights, our TASTE OF: LA Gourmet Trolley Tours will test your knowledge, tempt your tastebuds, and share the secret ingredients of L.A.’s flavorful past, present, and future! But there’s more to savor than just the food. Along the way, guests will visit historic sites tied to LA's legendary film, TV, and music legacy—the places and spaces that helped put Tinseltown on the map and made Hollywood a global symbol of entertainment. Each carefully curated pin, partner, and point of interest unveils a new chapter in LA’s culinary and cultural narrative, narrated by chefs, historians, and longtime local guides who share the stories and secrets behind these legendary landmarks firsthand.
Whether you’re a lifelong Angeleno or just visiting for the weekend, this experience is a must for anyone passionate about LA’s food scene and its hidden history. From famed façades to beloved bites, every stop is a window into the neighborhoods, legends, and local flavors that have shaped LA into the cultural capital it is today.
Bring your appetite, your curiosity, and your camera—this is LA like you’ve never tasted it before.
THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS:
#1: THE MONTALBÁN THEATRE
Where Hollywood History Takes Center Stage
We begin our Taste of LA journey at the iconic Montalbán Theatre—a living testament to Hollywood's golden age. Established in 1927 by the nephews of John Wilkes Booth (yes, that one—whose name is forever entwined with American theater history for an entirely different reason), this storied venue has hosted everything from Shakespearean productions to the rise of silver screen legends. As you sip on a selection of welcome cocktails by Yuzy & classic theatre concessions, Proprietor Gil Smith will lead an exclusive tour through the theatre's rich history, sharing behind-the-scenes stories of its cinematic legacy and architectural charm. You’ll walk the same hallways where Hollywood icons once roamed, catching glimpses of the craftsmanship and design that have preserved its timeless allure.
Before departing, you’ll ascend to the rooftop terrace for a sneak peek at the home of our brand-new Skyline Cinema Club—a breathtaking open-air movie series that will screen films all spring and summer long, celebrating the past, present, and future of Los Angeles. As a special bonus, all tour guests will receive a promo code for 20% off tickets to ANY screening!(For the full schedule, tickets, and more info on LA Explained's Skyline Cinema Club at the Montalbán, visit www.LAExplained.com/Movies) [Brunch & Sunset Cruises]
#2: GRANDMASTER RECORDERS
Tracks & Tastings: Where Music History Meets Modern Dining
Next, immerse yourself in the legendary sounds of Los Angeles at Grandmaster Recorders—a former recording studio turned culinary hotspot. Originally constructed in 1930 as the Bijou Silent Movie Theater, the building was transformed in 1971 by musician Alan Dickson into a state-of-the-art recording studio. Very quickly, it became a haven for musical legends. Icons such as Stevie Wonder, who wrote and rehearsed his iconic album Songs in the Key of Life here, along with David Bowie, Ringo Starr, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers, all recorded within its walls. The space thrived as a creative epicenter, attracting artists from across genres who were drawn to its laid-back vibe and unparalleled acoustics.
Today, Grandmaster Recorders pays homage to its rich musical heritage while offering a modern dining experience. Guests are invited to explore the historic interiors, including the 71 Studio Bar, which nods to its recording roots with vintage decor and original memorabilia from its star-studded past. The experience culminates on the Grandmaster Rooftop—a jewel set high above Hollywood. With sweeping views of the city skyline, the rooftop offers an unrivaled food and beverage program. Here, guests will sample a selection of artisanal pizzas—paired with the venue's signature range of Frosé & Seasonal Slushies while soaking in the sights & sounds where countless aspiring musicians became verified Rock & Roll royalty. [Sunset Cruise Only]
#3: THE FORMOSA CAFÉ
Where Tinseltown Toasts to Taiwanese Flavor & Chinese Tradition
Then, step into the golden age of Hollywood at the Formosa Café—a cherished hideaway for stars, mobsters, and moguls since its doors first opened in 1939. Nestled across from the former Samuel Goldwyn Studios, the Formosa's red vinyl booths and dimly lit corners have set the stage for countless stories and whispered secrets. Legends like Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart, James Dean, and Elvis Presley once wined and dined in its iconic train car dining room—an original Pacific Electric Red Car trolley that still stands as the oldest surviving red train car in existence.
As you explore its historic interiors, you’ll get a rare glimpse of Bugsy Siegel's secret safe, hidden within the floor of the Formosa during his heyday. Rumor has it the notorious mobster stashed everything from cash to compromising secrets right behind the bar—a detail that still adds to the cafe's mystique.
Adding to its rich history, the Yee Mee Loo Bar—an homage to Chinese Americans in Hollywood—features a stunning visual showcase curated by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Arthur Dong. His collection of rare photos and lobby cards tells the story of Chinese American influence during Hollywood’s golden age—a legacy preserved within the Formosa's walls. As you soak in the ambiance and explore its storied past, you’ll also get to sample some of upscale Taiwanese Chinese cuisine and sip on house-crafted cocktails that have kept its legacy alive for nearly a century. With walls lined with autographed photos of Hollywood's elite, you’ll truly taste the history of LA while indulging in flavors that honor its Chinese-American roots. [Brunch + Sunset Cruises]
#4: TAIL O’ THE PUP
A Bite of Nostalgia at LA’s Most Iconic Hot Dog Stand
Our next stop takes you to Tail o’ the Pup, one of Los Angeles’ most beloved examples of novelty architecture and a symbol of the city’s playful spirit. Originally opened in 1946 by dance duo Veloz and Yolanda, the iconic 18-foot-long hot dog-shaped stand was designed by Milton J. Black, the visionary architect known for Spanish Colonial Revival residences and iconic Deco landmarks like the Mauretania Apartments in Hancock Park.
Quickly embraced by locals and tourists alike, Tail o’ the Pup became a cultural icon—serving as a backdrop for countless films, TV shows, and famous photos that captured the spirit of mid-century Los Angeles. After closing its doors in 2005 and spending years in storage, the stand was meticulously restored by the 1933 Group and triumphantly reopened in 2022 at its new location on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. The revival not only preserved its unique design but also expanded its offerings, featuring an array of classic favorites and modern twists—from juicy hot dogs and hearty burgers to plant-based options, all served in a setting that pays homage to its storied past. During our visit, guests will have the chance to sample some of their most beloved creations, each bite a taste of LA nostalgia reimagined. Once you’ve savored this slice of local history, our shuttles will be ready to whisk you away to the next exciting destination on your Taste of LA journey... [Brunch + Sunset Cruises]
YOUR TICKET INCLUDES:
🍴 A Curated 3.5-Hour Culinary Adventure:
Experience the very best of LA’s food scene while uncovering its hidden history—all aboard a fleet of rare, restored historic trolleys that bring LA's golden era back to life.
🍔 Four (4) Unique Tasting Experiences:
Savor iconic dishes and local favorites at some of LA’s most beloved destinations.
🏛️ Guided Tours & Tastings:
Step inside LA’s most iconic eateries and cultural landmarks, with exclusive access and expert storytelling.
🔍 Behind-the-Scenes Access to Historic Locations:
Explore legendary sites that helped put Los Angeles on the map and shaped its global legacy.
📸 Photo Opportunities at Every Stop:
Capture the moment as you explore the city's hidden gems and stunning backdrops.
🍹 Drink & Cocktail Pairings (21+ Only):
Enjoy perfectly paired beverages at select locations to elevate your tasting experience.
🎟️ 20% Off Any Screening at Skyline Cinema Club:
Receive an exclusive discount to experience rooftop screenings at the historic Montalbán Theatre, where LA's cinematic legacy shines under the stars. For the current lineup, visit www.LAExplained.com/Movies
🛍️ BOGO Deal on Any LA Explained Merch:
Double up on your favorite LA Explained gear with an exclusive Buy One, Get One Free offer at checkout.