Café Maud Has Attracted Celebrity Clientele

The East Village restaurant has become a frequent destination for Hollywood stars seeking a discreet dining environment.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Celebrities

Bold vector editorial illustration of a plush velvet banquette and empty cocktail glasses in an intimate, dimly lit lounge setting. — Café Maud, a discreet East Village restaurant, has become a popular destination for Hollywood stars seeking privacy while dining in New York City. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Café Maud, located on the corner of St. Marks Place, has gained popularity among high-profile celebrities. The venue is recognized for offering a stylish, relaxed, and private atmosphere for its guests.

Why it matters

Celebrities often seek out dining spots that balance aesthetic appeal with strict privacy measures. This venue succeeds by maintaining a discreet environment for stars while operating without exclusive entrances for patrons.

The restaurant is named after a 19th-century literary group and operates a reservation-only cocktail lounge known as The Rhymers' Club.

The players

Olivia Rodrigo

She is a multi-platinum singer and songwriter who has been spotted dining at the location.

Jason Momoa

The well-known actor and filmmaker is among the high-profile guests who have visited the restaurant.

Elizabeth Olsen

The actress is a frequent guest who has utilized the venue for private event hosting.

Alicia Vikander

The Academy Award-winning actress hosted a film screening celebration at the venue's hidden lounge.

Curt Huegel

He is a co-owner of the East Village establishment along with a group of Irish restaurateurs.

The details

Owned by Irish restaurateurs and Curt Huegel, the café requires all customers to make reservations and wait for tables. Behind an unmarked entrance, the hidden cocktail lounge has hosted private events, including a film screening celebration for Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander.

September 2026: Report published regarding celebrity attendance at Café Maud.

Industry Dynamics

Café Maud reflects the broader trend of hospitality venues creating hidden, reservation-only sections to cater to clients seeking exclusivity. This model shifts the focus from traditional public accessibility toward curated and discreet guest experiences.

Patrons can expect to navigate a reservation-only system for all tables at the restaurant, as the venue maintains no exclusive entrances for high-profile guests. Securing a spot at the hidden lounge requires additional planning due to its limited and exclusive nature.

The takeaway

The venue proves that discretion is a powerful draw in the modern restaurant landscape for both stars and everyday diners. Guests hoping for a glimpse of celebrity culture should prioritize advance planning to accommodate the restaurant's strict reservation requirements.