My first impression of the world famous Derby club in Los Feliz was a good one. The inside décor offers a comfortable atmosphere, even if the club fills up (which happens more often than not). It also offers some of the best live performance sound of all the Hollywood music clubs. Yet, from a performance standpoint, the on stage sound, and sound crew leave a lot to be desired. Of course, the majority of you will be there to enjoy the music, and I’m here to tell you, you will.
As you walk through the front door you are presented with a choice. To the left is a small acoustic room for solo performers and singer-songwriters, and to your right is the main live room where the bands tear the roof off! There are way too many acoustic rooms in Hollywood, so make your way to the right.
Upon entry you will be greeted by the martini bar stuck very inconveniently in the center of the room. I only say this because when things are busy and packed, it makes it very difficult to get a drink. To the right of the bar you’ll find several tall bar tables with comfortable chairs. These also offer the best view of the stage (granted they are also closest to the speakers so if you like it loud, than go ahead!). On the other side of the bar are a collection of well designed, but unpractical booths. Though they offer supreme comfort, the visual element is supremely lacking.
So once you’ve positioned yourself it will be time to listen to the music. Caddy corner from the booths is the stage – with enough room to fit a four member group comfortably. For those bands who have pianists (such as mine), the Derby has a great sounding baby grand already miked up (a huge plus for us who have to move our own equipment). Though the onstage monitor system lacks the punch of most other clubs, the balance of the instruments is surprisingly good, and the sound from the crowd is excellent.
So bring your friends down to the corner of Hillhurst and Los Feliz to see some of the best bands in Los Angeles (not just any band can play the Derby). The Derby is sure please!
If you’re into all things rock, and are looking for a drink before you hit the Whiskey or the Roxy, or if you’re looking for some good food, The Rainbow is where you need to be. Of course it doesn’t hurt that it’s a world famous bar where rock stars still hang out, and where the eighties are still alive and kicking. Known as THE hangout spot during the heyday of the Sunset Strip, The Rainbow still attracts the likes of Tom Morello and Lemmy on a regular basis.
One of the reasons that this place stood the test of time and why the stars still come back is the menu. The Rainbow’s menu is a top notch collection Italian and American favorites, perfect for curing hangovers with the band, or out on the town with the misses. My food recommendation would be the homemade Lasagna, but I must say everything I’ve eaten there has been good.
Now it wouldn’t be a rock club without live music. The upstairs portion of the bar offers live acoustic music by some of Hollywood’s finest emerging talent. Though I will say that the upstairs is not as roomy as the lower portion. As you would expect, the entire bar gets incredibly packed on Friday and Saturday nights and getting around is a little hard to do.
There is a bar located on the outside, but during busy hours it’s almost impossible to get to. You’d be much better off just getting a table and ordering all your drinks from there. It’s a much more proficient way to get your drinks while enjoying the amazing menu. Oh, and don’t be afraid to glance at the dessert menu.
The Rainbow is located right in the middle of such famous clubs as The Whiskey A Go-Go, The Roxy, and The Key Club, making it a real Mecca for musicians and music appreciators alike. Overall, The Rainbow is a great place to get a fresh taste of what the Sunset Strip is all about.
For the adult whose inner kid is still alive and well, Lucky Strike Lanes is the place to be. On one hand, it’s a top notch bowling alley offering a wide variety food options; on the other – it’s a Hollywood club, and a great place to go with guys on Friday night. The bar is first class and the general size of the place makes sure that it won’t be hell making your way back to the bar for your next drink. It’s location in the heart of Hollywood also adds to the mystique. All in all, Lucky Strike Lanes always offers a fun night.
Lucky strike does have a dress code so make sure and dress appropriately before leaving house. Once you get there, the first thing you and guys should do is grab a drink from the bar and put your name on the list for a lane. Since we’re figuring it’s a Friday night, be prepared to wait at least an hour for an open lane. But don’t worry, filling an hour at this place is pretty easy to do. There are plenty of couches and tables around the bar area if your feel like having a seat, as well as an outdoor section for smokers and a breath of fresh air.
So our hour has passed. You gather your crew and get to your lane. Though Lucky Strike is a Hollywood club, it’s still a good ole fashioned bowling alley with all the fixing’s! Each lane has its own waitress and trust me, with all the drinking you’re going to do, I would completely recommend ordering many different finger foods for the crew to munch on while bowling. Remember that these games are very expensive (this IS Hollywood), so don’t get too drunk and end up with a gigantic bill. In fact everything at Lucky Strike is expensive, but that’s the case with everything "Hollywood".
The combination of club and bowling alley really works well, and fits the Hollywood scene. If you’re looking for a fun night out on the Hollywood strip (not to be confused with the Sunset strip), this is a great way to make that happen. Call up the boys!
Ah, the Pig n' Whistle. I’ve got plenty of memories in that place. There was a time in my life where I spent every night at that place. Of course not only did I go to school next door (Musicians Institute), I used to live just down the road. But, there is just such an atmosphere inside that me and my buddies couldn’t help but not ask each other after class “we going to the pig?” Whether it’s the excellent drinks, wonderful food, or wild and often unpredictable entertainment, the Pig n’ Whistle delivers on all levels.
With it’s convenient location next to the Egyptian Theatre (Where the movie premieres happened during the Twenties and Thirties when the pig opened it’s doors), it’s not too uncommon to run across a who’s who of Hollywood. It’s also a major tourist attraction, so it’s pretty easy to say that there will always be a few out of place families sitting in the booth across the right wall.
To me, The Pig really comes alive when the sun goes down. Home to some of my favorite bar tenders, the Pig is THE place to drink with your buddies in downtown Hollywood. The low lights, and abundant television’s make it a great place to bring your whole crew. Almost every night of the week finds the Pig turning into the place to be, and one of the many places to be seen in the downtown area.
For all you karaoke fiends out there, The Pig’s Wednesday night karaoke is notorious. I used to spend every Wednesday night singing, dancing, and drinking at The Pig. I think I most enjoyed the fact that every week there was a great mix of friends and new people alike. You can always meet new people, and can always count on your friends waiting for you outside, or at the bar. Also, If you’ve got some single guys in your crew (or you yourself), The Pig is a great place to meet and pick up women of all shapes, sizes, and personalities.
If you make it before ten o’clock I would recommend you order something from the menu. No one wants to drink on an empty stomach, and no one should pass up these delectable dishes. Among the many amazing choices are pizza (the chicken and artichoke heart is the best), fish and chips, and some of the best calamari around. Top all that off with a hearty lager, or a nice cocktail. It’s good to get something in your stomach because your going to need it. The rest of the night will become a blur of fun and laughter just be safe. If you can walk, do it. I walked there every week, and despite what people say, Hollywood is a safe place to be even at night.
That being said, The Pig n’ Whistle is a fantastic place for you and your friends to spend a night on the town.
The Knitting Factory is many things. On one hand it is a first rate concert facility stocked with three stages (all of which have their own sound and bars). On the other, it is a little small and barely manages to hold all of its occupants. Yet overall, the Knitting Factory is a fine place to spend an evening with friends and catch Hollywood’s finest local talent.
Being a musician myself, I’d like to begin by saying that playing the Knitting Factory has always been a pleasant and enjoyable experience. That being said, the quality of the music that graces the stages is usually as good as it gets. Because of the Knitting Factory’s relatively small size, most people get full view of everything that’s happening on stage. This intimate atmosphere adds major points to the appeal of the Knitting Factory.
Once you enter through the front door your eyes will be greeted by some very comfortable plush couches, and the first of three bars. Treat yourself first to one of many over priced drinks, that is if you can squeeze your way through the mob of people. If you make a right you’ll see the second stage. This is where the lesser bands, and touring indie bands play. This stage is nice, but there is not a lot of room to stand and it can get annoying if you find yourself in the path of traffic from the other rooms to the bars.
Next I would recommend making a quick stop by the Alterknit Lounge. This small little room is a haven for local singer songwriters looking to get their talent out there. If you need to, you can make your way to the second bar in the back of this room. Though it’s not as stocked as the one up front, you can still get an overpriced beer or two. This room doesn’t usually have as many people in it and is a nice place to get away and still enjoy the music.
If you leave this room, the only other place to go is the main stage. This is obviously where the larger bands come to play. The room is smaller than the House of Blues, but holds the same atmosphere. The visibility is pretty clear from all angles, and offers the same intimate feeling that the rest of the club has. Also, as with all the other rooms, the main stage room has a fully stocked bar. I would not recommend going to this bar due to the loud noise from the stage. It’s a lot easier to get what you want from the front room.
The Knitting Factory is even smoker friendly with the convenient exits in back of the room. Overall, I would say that the Knitting factory offers a good concert going experience, as well as just an old fashioned good time for everybody.
Hidden behind a simple black painted building is perhaps the Valley's best bar. This dimly lit lounge is the place to be if you are feeling in the mood for a Hollywood bar, but don't feel like making the trek over the hill. The decor is what you would expect to find in Hollywood. The bar is decked out with stained glass and an eclectic collection of drinks. Everything from well aged scotch to flavored vodkas lies in wait for spirit thirsty patrons.
Venture towards the back of the bar and you will find a comfortable lounge with felt-lined walls. The brown, gold and red walls have a throwback feel. It's like a dance back through time to some hip bar of the 60s. With comfortable couches, it's a perfect spot to relax with friends. If pool is your thing, an adjacent room contains a pool table. But expect to wait awhile if you want to play.
The drinks are pricier then other valley bars, but not by much. And the quality and strength of the pour more then makes up for the cost. The bartenders are attractive and good at their jobs. I have never had to wait more then a couple of minutes for a drink, even on weekends.
This bar has become a favorite of those looking to mix and mingle. The crowd here is matched by any you will find in Hollywood, with a wide range of styles and tastes. The atmosphere is friendly and lively. There is a palpable energy that fills the place, but never seems to overwhelm it.
Be warned, No Bar is considered the place to be on weekends by both locals and visitors. They get pretty crowded after ten. Groups of friends and co-workers seem drawn to the place. Make sure you get there early enough and you will be more then accommodated.
Like most bars, No Bar seems to rely heavily on street parking for its patrons. This is no problem, however as there is plenty of it.
Located on the border of Burbank and North Hollywood, this small bar is the place to be for those looking for a trendy bar without the trendy attitude. A nondescript outside hides the sumptuous beauty and style of this quaint little bar. The interior is designed to look like a 50s gin joint; with all the style and grace of that era.
The single room space is cloaked in soft lighting that glimmers off the exposed brick walls adorned with scones and candles set above black circular booths. A long, black enameled bar stretches across the other side of the bar. From here the bartenders offer both good drinks and conversation. If your lucky you will strike up a conversation with the raven haired bartender who has all the sultry beauty of the bar itself.
The drinks here are phenomenal. Much better then what you would expect to find in a neighborhood bar. Their drink selection matches anything you will find in Hollywood or Los Angeles. The pour is great, with no premixing or water-downed booze. Order a drink here and expect to be satisfied.
Despite its opulent charm and style, Bar 21 maintains its neighborhood bar vibe. Perhaps it's the bartenders who actually bother to remember your name or the small size of the place. Either way you'll find yourself welcome by staff and patrons alike. This is the perfect spot to take a date after a diner. They are also open to you ordering in food if you get hungry while you drink.
Come down and check out the Valley's newest gem before it gets picked up by the in crowd. The place never seems to get too packed or too loud. It retains a perfect mixture of energetic joviality and friendly civility.
Once again the parking lot for this bar just cannot handle the numbers of visitors, so park on one of the nearby streets. There is plenty of room for everyone.
If you absolutely must go to the trendy Sunset Strip, then I suggest going to the Trocadero Lounge.
The Scene
The Trocadero, or the "Troc" as some locals like to call it, is a pretty cool spot for a Friday or Saturday night. This dimly lit lounge is cozy and the crowd is pretty tolerable (for the Hollywood type). The drinks are expensive however; not as expensive as other spots on the strip, but still not cheap. I ordered 2 vodka tonics with a beer and the bill was about 20 bucks.
They have outdoor seating in case you're a smoker or enjoy people watching. The food is awesome too. I recommend a burger and fries. On a scale of 1 to 10, ll give the Troc an 8. Good food, the people are ok, but the atmosphere is what keeps me coming back. My favorite is sitting outside and watching all the drunks walk by.
Parking
The parking is terrible. The bar is smack dab in the middle of the strip. Parking is meter only and you'll get towed after midnight on the weekends. Your best bet would probably be valet (which is reasonably priced) or taking a taxi.
One more thing, you gotta ask for Kim. She is the only cool waitress in the place. She's always smiling and will treat you well!
Hidden behind a corrugated steel entrance is a bar that time forgot. The decor is straight out of a fifties noir film. Located on the corner of San Fernando and Alameda in Burbank, the Blue Room is the place to be for locals and others looking for a break from the typical Hollywood bar scene.
The Scene
Referred to some as the best damn dive bar in Los Angeles, you will find the place alive with patrons on most nights. The types of people you'll come across at the Blue Room range from the local rummy to glitzed up Studio folk.
From the roomy and comfortable booths to the outdoor patio, the Blue Room, or the Blue as it is referred to by some of the regulars, has something for everyone. Just about the only thing that jumps out as modern in the entire place is the Juke Box. An internet connected wonder that allows you to download just about any song you could think of. That can be both a plus and a minus as I have heard Dancing Queen just one too many times.
The Drinks
The drinks are considerably cheaper then any you will find in Hollywood, or any other nearby bar for that matter; and twice as strong. With affable bar tenders and waitresses just as quick with a line as your drink, you are sure to be pleased with the experience.
The Parking
The parking situation is less then perfect, but at least it’s free. Don’t expect to find parking in their, oh so small lot. There is enough street parking to accommodate everyone though, so don’t worry. Make sure to use the back entrance as the front entrance seems to be just for show (and to comply with local ordinances).
The Studio Suite isn't much of a first date spot but it is by far THE BEST LITTLE DIVE BAR IN LOS ANGELES. Yes! I love it baby, as Dick Vitale would say. The drinks are cheap as hell and the music rocks. Actually, since I mentioned music, there is a band that goes by the name of "The Kenzos" who are unbelievable.
These guys are one of the most revolutionary bands I've heard in a long time. The sound is similar to Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots and Jane's Addiction all wrapped in one tasty burrito. The lead singer, Joe, is crazy on stage, the bass player will crack jokes between songs and the drummer is awesome. Together these guys are an unbelievable talent. I rarely go to a bar to see a band but for these guys I'll make an exception. The Kenzos are the Studio Suites most popular band.
The parking situation is perfect. It's free! You'll always see the bands hanging out front smoking, drinking and having a great time. The types of people you'll find at Studio Suite aren't your typical "Hollywood Crowd," everyone is down to earth and very welcoming. There are pool tables in the back and the place is packed for football Sunday. The food isn't that great…but what bar food is?
Check out the Studio Suite on a Saturday night. This is the best night to go. You'll even see me there cheering on the Kenzos.
My first impression of the world famous Derby club in Los Feliz was a good one. The inside décor offers a comfortable atmosphere, even if the club fills up (which happens more often than not). It also offers some of the best live performance sound of all the Hollywood music clubs. Yet, from a performance standpoint, the on stage sound, and sound crew leave a lot to be desired. Of course, the majority of you will be there to enjoy the music, and I’m here to tell you, you will.
If you’re into all things rock, and are looking for a drink before you hit the Whiskey or the Roxy, or if you’re looking for some good food, The Rainbow is where you need to be. Of course it doesn’t hurt that it’s a world famous bar where rock stars still hang out, and where the eighties are still alive and kicking. Known as THE hangout spot during the heyday of the Sunset Strip, The Rainbow still attracts the likes of Tom Morello and Lemmy on a regular basis.
For the adult whose inner kid is still alive and well, Lucky Strike Lanes is the place to be. On one hand, it’s a top notch bowling alley offering a wide variety food options; on the other – it’s a Hollywood club, and a great place to go with guys on Friday night. The bar is first class and the general size of the place makes sure that it won’t be hell making your way back to the bar for your next drink. It’s location in the heart of Hollywood also adds to the mystique. All in all, Lucky Strike Lanes always offers a fun night.
Ah, the Pig n' Whistle. I’ve got plenty of memories in that place. There was a time in my life where I spent every night at that place. Of course not only did I go to school next door (Musicians Institute), I used to live just down the road. But, there is just such an atmosphere inside that me and my buddies couldn’t help but not ask each other after class “we going to the pig?” Whether it’s the excellent drinks, wonderful food, or wild and often unpredictable entertainment, the Pig n’ Whistle delivers on all levels.
The Knitting Factory is many things. On one hand it is a first rate concert facility stocked with three stages (all of which have their own sound and bars). On the other, it is a little small and barely manages to hold all of its occupants. Yet overall, the Knitting Factory is a fine place to spend an evening with friends and catch Hollywood’s finest local talent.