Every First Tuesday
A Night of Short Films
Join us the first Tuesday of every month for a night of short films. Catch a curated selection of short films in an intimate setting doors open every first Tuesday.
HOST YOUR EVENT AT FORMOSA
Book a private event at the 1939 Hollywood landmark where Sinatra, Bogart, and Anna May Wong once gathered. Birthday parties, corporate dinners, fundraisers, film shoots, and full venue buyouts welcome.
BIRTHDAYS · CORPORATE · FUNDRAISERS · FILM SHOOTS · FULL BUYOUTS
BOOK AN EVENTWhat's On This Week
Two recurring evenings, every week and every month, no reservation required.
Every Wednesday | 8:00 PM
Day Mori
Experience the mystery of close-up magic with Day Mori every Wednesday night at 8pm. Pull up a seat and prepare to be amazed - live magic, up close and personal, every Wednesday at 8pm.
A Legacy of Stardust & Secrets
Since 1939, The Formosa Cafe has been the unofficial headquarters for Hollywood's elite. From Frank Sinatra to Marilyn Monroe, our walls have absorbed decades of cinema history.
When you host an event here, you aren't just booking a room. You are stepping into a legendary narrative, offering your guests an authentic piece of Los Angeles nightlife culture that cannot be replicated.
Past Events at Formosa
A look at recent gatherings hosted across our spaces.
Request Availability
We host private events in the evenings for groups of 30-200. Please answer the questions below and someone from our team will reach out with availability and additional information. Thank you for your interest in McGrail Vineyards! During the winter months we can accommodate up to 70 people in our barrel room.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does The Formosa Cafe take reservations for events?
For private events and large group bookings, please submit an availability request using the form on this page and our events team will follow up directly with availability and next steps. For general dining, reservations are strongly recommended especially on weekends, though walk-ins are always welcome based on availability.
What kinds of events does The Formosa Cafe host?
We host a wide range of private and semi private events including birthday parties, corporate dinners, company happy hours, fundraisers, film premieres, rooftop gatherings, holiday parties, and full venue buyouts. We have comfortably accommodated groups from intimate parties of 20 to full buyouts of up to 200 guests across our different spaces.
What are The Formosa Cafe's hours?
Sunday through Wednesday we are open from 12PM to 11PM. Thursday through Saturday we are open from 12PM to 12AM. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 12PM to 4PM.
Where is The Formosa Cafe located?
We are located at 7156 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046. We sit at the heart of West Hollywood just off the intersection of Santa Monica and Formosa Avenue, making us easy to find from anywhere in Los Angeles.
Is there parking available at The Formosa Cafe in West Hollywood?
Yes. The Formosa Cafe has an on-site parking lot accessible via a side entrance off Santa Monica Blvd. Additional parking is also available at the West Hollywood Gateway shopping centre directly adjacent to the restaurant. We recommend arriving a few minutes early on busy Thursday through Saturday evenings.
What kind of food does The Formosa Cafe serve?
We offer a full Chinese American dining menu drawing from Formosa's culinary legacy since the 1920s, alongside a craft cocktail program and full bar. For private bookings, speak to our team about menu options and packages suited to your event. Our brunch menu is available on weekends for daytime events.
Has The Formosa Cafe been used for film and TV productions?
Yes. The Formosa Cafe is one of Los Angeles's most sought after filming locations. Its vintage interiors, iconic red trolley car, neon signage, and atmospheric lighting have made it a favourite for music videos, editorial shoots, television productions, and film projects for decades. For filming inquiries please contact filming@1933group.com.
Is The Formosa Cafe a historic landmark?
Yes. The Formosa Cafe is one of West Hollywood's most celebrated historic landmarks, originally opened in 1939 directly across from the Samuel Goldwyn studio. It is home to the oldest surviving red train car in existence dating back to 1904, and houses an original archive of autographed celebrity photographs and Hollywood memorabilia spanning the golden age of the industry.
How do I get in touch to book a private event?
Fill out the request form on this page or reach out directly at formosa@1933group.com or by calling (855) 964 2348. Our events team will respond with availability, space options, and next steps.