We had an interesting thing at that first dinner. It was prior to the availability of several new hotels in Los Angeles, and we were more or less committed to the old Ambassador Hotel that has the famous Coconut Grove.

In this quote, Lew Wasserman, a powerful figure in the entertainment industry and longtime head of MCA/Universal, reflects on a moment in Los Angeles history tied to both business and social culture. He refers to a first dinner, likely a high-profile industry event or gathering, that took place before the expansion of modern hotels in L.A. At the time, their venue options were limited, and they were effectively "committed" to using the Ambassador Hotel, a legendary site in Hollywood’s social and entertainment scene.

Wasserman specifically mentions the Coconut Grove, the hotel's famous nightclub, which had become an iconic venue for celebrity galas, award shows, and musical performances. Known for its glamorous décor and star-studded guest list, the Coconut Grove symbolized the golden era of Old Hollywood. By referencing it, Wasserman evokes a sense of both nostalgia and practicality—highlighting how the entertainment industry functioned within the available infrastructure at the time.

This quote subtly touches on the evolution of Los Angeles as an entertainment capital. Before the rise of newer, more luxurious hotels and venues, landmarks like the Ambassador Hotel were central to how Hollywood power players met, negotiated deals, and celebrated. Wasserman’s use of “more or less committed” suggests that while they may have had limited choices, the Ambassador and its Coconut Grove were still revered locations with deep cultural significance.

The origin of this quote likely comes from interviews or recollections in which Wasserman was chronicling the early development of Hollywood’s business and social networks. As a man who helped shape the studio system, talent management, and modern media empires, his memories provide valuable insight into how infrastructure, tradition, and celebrity culture converged during the formative years of the American entertainment industry.