Avalon Hollywood began its life as a theater in 1927, and ever since has undergone numerous name changes, and staged several theatrical events and musical concerts, such as: 'Caesar & Cleopatra', and 'The Vagabond King'. This venue is also home to the first ever American Music Awards, and has held concerts for Nirvana, Soundgarden, Smashing Pumpkins, and the Beastie Boys. It is a club. venue, a host to special events, restaurant and more.
Still commonly known as the "Rainbow Room," this fabled Sunset Strip institution continues to deliver a good time with live rock shows, fun finger food and late-night dining. The roomy interiors consist of a dining room, several bars, upstairs dance floor and patio decorated with kitschy rock 'n' roll memorabilia, Christmas lights, burgundy leather booths and even a vintage arcade game. The food offered is an Italian-American fusion of popular munchies such as pizza, sandwiches, steaks and a diverse vegetarian selection. Keep in mind that it is possible to reserve special seating above the stage.
If you're looking to get a little country, check out InCahoots Fullerton. InCahoots is Southern California's premiere Country & Western dance club, with themed events on open nights. Tuesdays are Country Rockin' Tuesdays with drink and taco specials and karaoke. On Wednesdays, check out Redneck Wednesdays which features live entertainment, drink specials and a mechanical bull. On Fridays, come in for weekend fun with drink specials and special entertainment. Every night at InCahoots features line dancing and other dancing lessons as well. Check the website for dress code.
A rather upscale venue, The Edison offers a trendy venue to party all night. With foot-tapping music, chilled beverages and live bands, it ensures complete entertainment. Aptly named, for it is located inside a former power plant, it sports remnants of the Industrial Gothic age in its decor, that transports one to that era. A local hangout place, tourists are also seen partying hard and enjoying the vibe. It is best reserve a table and dress as per the stated dress code.
Whisky a Go Go is truly steeped in the very roots of rock history. In addition to being the joint that spawned the term "Go-Go Girl," legendary acts like The Doors, Janis Joplin and Buffalo Springfield used to play here. Rock 'n' Rollers still, to this day, flock to this modern-day mecca. It is not an overstatement to call this the premier rock club in Los Angeles, if not the entire world. Try the upstairs area to get away from the crowd and to get a different vantage point.
Once owned by actor Johnny Depp, this notorious ultra-hot bar is known for its cutting-edge music and celebrity-studded scene. Depp and his co-owners continue to book major music acts and intriguing unknowns to entertain the glitzy crowd. Be prepared to wait in line unless you are famous. Viper Room is one of the brightest (dark) spots in West Hollywood, and one which any self-respecting club-goer would put high on their list. Cover varies; check the calendar for occasional discount passwords.
A rather upscale venue, The Edison offers a trendy venue to party all night. With foot-tapping music, chilled beverages and live bands, it ensures complete entertainment. Aptly named, for it is located inside a former power plant, it sports remnants of the Industrial Gothic age in its decor, that transports one to that era. A local hangout place, tourists are also seen partying hard and enjoying the vibe. It is best reserve a table and dress as per the stated dress code.
You know that any club featuring bands called Vomit Bomb and The Pukers on the same night probably isn't a place to take the parents. The Smell is a small, bare-bones warehouse showcasing the best of underground art and music. The club name possibly derives from the musty aroma that hangs in the air as a result of many sweaty people jammed into such limited space, or perhaps it's a reference to the less-than-glamorous location. Leave your delicate sensibilities at home and enjoy fresh talent. Shows are for all ages, so alcohol isn't on the menu but vegan snacks and tea are!
Opened in 2015, Precinct DTLA is a rock 'n' roll gay bar with an event almost every night of the week. On weekends, lots of locals as well as tourists enjoy the music, the drinks and the five-star quality cuisine under the guidance of Chef Felix Barron. It hosts exciting live music and has a range of beers and cocktails on tap, and is touted to be the most happening club in the downtown district.
The Regent dates back to the early 20th Century and is a widely photographed site. This historic theater closed down down in 2000. It was purchased by ace entrepreneur Mitchell Frank who has turned this old theater into a vibrant space featuring three distinct areas. So you can dine at their restaurant or unwind at their trendy bar. But the main focus here is live entertainment. Enjoy concerts and gigs by touring bands and talented local musicians at The Regent.
Casa La Golondrina is located on historic Olvera Street, where it stands proudly as one of L.A.'s oldest restaurants. In 1930, the owners took over the historic Pelanconi House which has been around since 1855. It was named after its second owner, Antonio Pelanconi, but now the residence-turned-restaurant serves delicious Mexican fare accompanied by Mariachi music and live dancers. It is a very popular spot for authentic Mexican fare in a unique, historical setting.
Traxx, located inside Union Station, is one of Los Angeles' grandest architectural structures. The restaurant is done in an Art Deco style, complementing the station's merger of streamline modern and mission architecture. It is small and cozy, seating 100 people. There are tables outside by the concourse and a bar in the train station's old telephone room. The open kitchen serves a variety of American dishes, from crab cakes to lamb chops. Its desserts are also good, particularly the pies, which are delicious.