Opened in 1927, the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel was financed by a syndicate that included Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford, Marcus Loew, Louis B. Mayer, and Joseph Schenck. Built across Hollywood Boulevard from Grauman's Chinese Theater, the hotel quickly became known as the "home of the stars."

The Hollywood Roosevelt hosted many lavish film industry parties including the first Academy Awards ceremony in 1929. A few years later the Roosevelt opened the Cinegrill, a small nightclub offering jazz and cabaret performances by well-known acts--a favorite hangout of film celebrities.

The Hollywood Roosevelt is still in business today at 7000 Hollywood Boulevard. Recently remodeled, the hotel's mezzanine features an interesting museum of early film industry memorabilia.