Romanian born Catalina Popescu opened the famous Catalina Bar & Grill back in 1986. Motivated by her love in jazz, and following the advice of the legendary Buddy Colette on presenting live music, the newest restaurant in Hollywood opened its doors on October 23, 1986. Since then, many renowned musicians have taken the stage including the likes of Dizzie Gillespie, Art Blakey, McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea, Ray Brown, Joe Williams, Max Roach, Carmen McRae, Betty Carter, Ron Carter, Joe Henderson, Benny Carter,Tony Williams..
For fifteen years “Catalina Bar and Grill” has been delighting audiences with its great music and exceptional cuisine. It is not rare to find among the patrons famous personalities such as Clint Eastwood, Howard Hesseman, Garret Morris, Cybil Sheppard, Ricardo Motalban, Della Reese, Dionne Warwick, Joe Pesci, Prince, Iman and David Bowie, and many others.
Owner Catalina Popescu opened the club in 1986. Nestled near Hollywood Blvd. on Cahuenga, the neighborhood is nondescript by day, but at night, unnoticed doorways open into packed nightspots. Catalina's welcoming wooden door gives way to an intimate red rectangular room. The courteous waitstaff stand at the ready to bring you anything from the tempting and imaginative menu, or the full bar. But most importantly, the Catalina's hallowed stage serves up some of the biggest names in the business. Watch for their relocation this fall to a new, larger Sunset Strip address near Highland (6725 Sunset Blvd.) with outdoor patio seating.
~ Rex Butters
