Dan Tana, Owner of Celebrity-Loved Restaurant Frequented by George Clooney, Cameron Diaz, Dies at 90

Dan Tana, Renowned Restaurateur of the Celebrity Hotspot, Dies at 90

Dan Tana, the illustrious restaurateur known for his eponymous restaurant frequented by Hollywood’s A-list stars, has passed away at the age of 90. The news of his death was confirmed by his daughter Gabrielle, who revealed that he succumbed to cancer at a hospital in Belgrade, Serbia. Tana leaves behind his wife of 19 years, Biljana, and his daughters Gabrielle and Katerina.

Born as Dobrivoje Tanasijević on May 26, 1935, in a town near Belgrade, Tana’s journey to prominence was nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a professional soccer player in Europe, he later ventured into the restaurant industry in the United States. Tana worked tirelessly, starting from humble beginnings as a dishwasher, gradually climbing his way up to become a waiter and eventually a maître d’ at various Hollywood establishments, all while pursuing English and drama classes to hone his skills.

In 1964, Tana realised his dream by opening his own restaurant, Dan Tana’s, in West Hollywood. This quaint Italian eatery quickly became a magnet for celebrities such as Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Kirk Douglas, John Wayne, Cameron Diaz, and many others. Over the years, it garnered a reputation as a must-visit spot for Hollywood’s elite, with some patrons even having dishes named after them on the menu, like the “Veal Cutlet, Milanese, alla George Clooney.”

The legacy of Dan Tana transcended beyond just a restaurant; it became synonymous with the golden era of Hollywood glamour. His establishment was not just a place to dine but a hub for stories and encounters with legendary figures like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jr. Tana’s infectious charm and warm hospitality created an atmosphere that left a lasting impression on all who crossed its threshold.

Following a successful stint in the restaurant business, Tana retired in 2009 after selling Dan Tana’s to Sonja Perencevic. Despite stepping away from the day-to-day operations, Tana remained proud of the restaurant’s unchanged essence under new ownership. He passed his legacy onto Perencevic, who continued to uphold the traditions and values that had made Dan Tana’s a cherished landmark in the culinary world.

Tana’s impact on the culinary landscape and his contribution to the Hollywood community will be remembered for years to come. His dedication to excellence, coupled with his innate ability to create a welcoming and inviting environment, earned him a special place in the hearts of both patrons and peers. Dan Tana’s has become more than just a restaurant; it stands as a testament to a man who transformed a vision into a legendary institution.

In conclusion, Dan Tana’s legacy will continue to live on through the memories shared by those who had the privilege of dining at his iconic restaurant. His passion for hospitality and his profound love for good food have left an indelible mark on the culinary world. As we bid farewell to a true pioneer in the industry, we celebrate the life and accomplishments of Dan Tana and the enduring impact he has had on the world of gastronomy and entertainment.