November
17The Secrets of Chez Jay
I realize folks don’t normally write obits about their favorite bartenders, but I cannot let the passing of Jay Fiondella on Nov. 6 go without comment. Jay presided over a little restaurant and bar at the end of Santa Monica called Chez Jay and for many, like myself, it was a bastion of peace and pleasure.Jay was the ultimate gracious host. He looked after you and also told you if a possible spy or potential enemy was on the premises. He also was himself a true Hollywood character. He had bit roles in about 30 movies, but also was always returning from a treasure hunt or archeological dig.
The floors of Chez Jay were covered with sawdust and there was nothing about his place that suggested “celeb hangout.” Those of us who were regulars nonetheless knew about the back room where the Kennedys hung out in their prime and where a Henry Kissinger could be found drinking with friends. Jay would never confide who was hanging or where or what other side-shows were taking place – but there were plenty. Stars would amble by for a quiet meeting. Writers would drink away their blocks. No cameras were ever allowed, nor conversations repeated.
Chez Jay was a great club with no membership fee. We’ll miss him.
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Peter, thanks for your words about Chez Jay...
I''ve attended several Digital Hollywood Conferences across the street at Loew''s. The highlight of every trip was always dinner at Chez Jay''s. I remember an evening when a certain "A list/Mega Star" was having dinner next to us... he and his companion were just another table for 2 at Jay''s.
Thanks,
Posted by: David Clarke | 11/19/2008 11:13:09 AM