Stars: they’re just like us. No, really – next time you feel guilty for indulging in a fast food cheeseburger, remember that Beyonce does the very same. So even if you’re dining out on a budget, keep your eyes peeled: you may just spot your favourite A-lister ordering some affordable eats.
Shake Shack, NY and London
Few would argue about the quality of the burger at Shake Shack, Danny Meyer’s phenomenally successful chain of casual, classically American burger eateries. In New York, the original branch in Madison Square Park attracts big names the likes of Katie Holmes, Taylor Swift and Lorde; in London, Jessie J is reportedly a fan. Whether celebs deign to wait in the famously long queues is another question.
Joan’s On Third, LA
Joan’s On Third is nothing short of celebrity catnip. This stylish market-slash-cafe serves fresh, light eats in a breezy, just-so atmosphere. It’s the perfect formula for attracting big names: Jake Gyllenhaal, Nicole Kidman, Amanda Seyfried, Demi Moore, Kirsten Dunst, and more flock here regularly. Despite the star-wattage, though, the restaurant’s plates are still resolutely affordable: from a garden vegetable sandwich for under $10 to a $7.95 caprese salad, even budget eaters can afford to stop by.
Marlow & Sons, Brooklyn
Even the most remote hermits have probably heard that Brooklyn is the epicentre of all things cool right now, so no wonder that celebrities looking to stay on the cutting-edge are drawn here. Marlow & Sons in the Williamsburg neighbourhood epitomises what the borough’s eateries do best: a rustic, relaxed atmosphere, servers decked out in flannel, and cooking that emphasises the fresh and local. Part-café and part-restaurant, the affordable spot is a favourite of A-listers like Jay-Z and Beyonce.
In-N-Out Burger, LA, Las Vegas, and Beyond
Speaking of Beyonce: she loves her In-N-Out Burger (washed down with Champagne, naturally). And Kim Kardashian famously indulged in burger-and-fries meals here while pregnant. This cult-favourite, West Coast burger chain is something that both the famous and the average Joe can agree on, then: the burgers are something seriously special. Next time you order your double double animal style, see if you can spot a starlet wiping a dribble of ketchup off her chin.
Nando’s, London
Peri peri chicken’s beguiling powers have drawn in the boys of One Direction alongside hordes of regular Londoners: the five have been spotted indulging in the spicy, Portuguese-style chicken. Devoted star-spotters have even discerned their favourite orders (Zayn prefers his chicken extra spicy), while Niall was seen bringing Selena Gomez on a date to a central London branch recently.
Feature © Eva Rinaldi
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
