Old celeb photos decorate this watering hole built in 1939 & serving Asian eats alongside nostalgia. Based on 409 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.3 stars. Price $$
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Takeout ✔️ No-contact delivery
Address:
7156 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046
Phone: (323) 850-1014
Social Profile: 
Hours
| Friday | 12 PM–12 AM |
| Saturday | 12 PM–12 AM |
| Sunday | 12–11 PM |
| Monday
(Labor Day)
|
12–11 PM
Hours might differ
|
| Tuesday | 12–11 PM |
| Wednesday | 12–11 PM |
| Thursday | 12 PM–12 AM |
Menu
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Menu Photos
Photo Gallery
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Reviews
Thomas Albinson
Iconic venue with great food. Portions are generous. We (party of 4) got the Chinese barbecue pork (serves 2-4), spicy fried rice with chicken, scallion pancakes, and had more than what we could eat (so took it home). The barbecue was authentic, beautiful, and tasty. The presentation was amazing. The buns were very fresh. The fried rice was excellent too. I think I’d go with shrimp next time. We got drinks as well. The Matador was fruity and refreshing with a wedge of fresh pineapple – a perfect summer drink. The staff was both professional and friendly. Parking is on the street. We parked (free) a few blocks away. The history of Formosa is rich with Hollywood lore. The ceiling is border with signed photos of many legends.
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Dominik Suter
Entrance has a gatekeeper, nice touch with all the weirdos roaming the streets in Hollywood area. Late hours are a great bonus with kitchen closing in the AMs. Kung Pao chicken was a nice fusion dish, maybe not quite a shareable size but spicing and flavor grew on me. Spicy Dan Dan noodles was a below average noodle dish, the steamed white rice was best I had in years.
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eric henderson
All the food was amazing. Service was a little spotty but I think that’s just because they were so packed with people. It’s cool to sit in one of the old original train cars from the area. I heard the nightlife gets crazy in there. They said they had a live DJ coming. Definitely will go back next time we are in LA
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Harp Sandhar
Theyprovideexcellentcustomerservice. Codywentaboveandbeyondtoaccommodate us. Thishistoric restaurantprovidesdeliciousmealsandalovelyatmosphere. Highly recommended!!
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Sean Johnson
Fantastic dinner spot. If you’re into Chinese-American food, this is a must-try.
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Jim Boyce
The Formosa Cafe is a fantastic place to have a cocktail, eat some food, and walk back into 1940’s era Hollywood. They make tasty tiki style drinks. (The Singapore Sling and Mai Thai was very good.) If you’re into mid-century history of Hollywood, then you’re in luck. Legend has it that Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel used the Formosa as an HQ for his operations, and it’s commemorated with a photo of him above “his” booth complete with an encased floor safe that was used by Bugsy. There are booths in the main room lounge that are named for celebrities that frequented them. (The Marilyn Booth, The Elvis Booth, etc) The cafe has also been used in films such as LA Confidential. It’s a fun place; check their social media/website for weekly special events.
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Random Topics Truly
On this special day, we’re reminded of the love and memories we share as a family. What better way to celebrate than with amazing food and good company?
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James Jordan
We had a great time here last night. Our server (manager?) Was so fantastic and really set the tone so we’d have a great evening.
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Glenn DiResto
Loved going to this classic Chinese restaurant. When you first walk in you are in awww with the cozy and fun atmosphere. Really enjoyed the old Hollywood pics and the lighting.
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Alonzo Burke
Formosa cafe is such a fun and unique experience. It’s been around since 1939 and has such a fun history that includes many celebrities. Every time I go to LA, I always make a reservation here and am never disappointed. For this latest trip, my party requested to be seated in the train car. The vibe here is so fun and romantic.
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