Dan Tana, the founder of the iconic West Hollywood restaurant Dan Tana’s, has passed away at the age of 90. The legendary eatery, which became a staple for Hollywood stars and industry figures, announced his death on Facebook with a statement praising his “magical” place.
Tana took over the old Dominick’s in 1964, revolutionizing the LA dining scene by keeping the kitchen open until 12:30 am. He drew inspiration from his time as a maitre d’ at La Scala and Villa Capri, creating a welcoming space for A-listers like Marilyn Monroe, Joe DiMaggio, James Dean, and Frank Sinatra.
After selling the restaurant to current owner Sonja Perencevic in 2009, Tana ensured that his vision remained intact. The eatery’s menu has changed little over the years, with items named after famous patrons, such as Coleman’s New York steak.
Tana’s legacy extends beyond the restaurant, inspiring a TV character on Aaron Spelling’s Vega$. He was also known for sharing wonderful stories about his time with Hollywood legends, leaving an enduring mark on LA’s culinary scene.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/dan-tana-dead-dan-tanas-restaurant-former-owner-1236346131