Before You Go…
It’s early 1980’s, Twisted Sister’s playing at one of the venues on the Sunset Strip. After the first song Dee Snider riles up the crowd by yelling “…everyone get your asses up! I’m not singing until the entire crowd stands on their feet.” One section of the crowd isn’t standing, they’re sitting in their seats. Dee heads off stage and refuses to play. Back stage the owner finds Dee to get him back up there to play, “Dee what’s wrong?” “I’m not playing unless the entire crowd is into it.” He begrugingly points to the sitting section. “Dee, that section is a group of handicapped people.”
The insanity that was once the Strip has dwindled but the lingerings of wild nights of past can still be felt. So if you’re into feeling the noise, grab your dancing shoes and head on down Sunset.
Stop #1 — One Hour to Sunset
Sunset Cocktails
on the rooftop
What to Know
Pre-Plan: You must call ahead and reserve a space at the bar. Once you arrive tell the person at the front desk your name. They’ll call up and escort you to the elevator.
This is a mezcal leaning menu. Try the Lethal Weapon: Gem & Bolt mezcal, aperol, lime dry curacao, and rhubarb or Closer to God: Del Miguey Minero mezcal, cocchi americano, lemon, lime, California white wine, chamomile, and soda.
Future reference: Starting at 9pm the bar opens up to DJs playing to a crowd til 2am. Also, keep an eye out for their club on the first floor called Sunset.
Stop #2 — Post Sunset
Spicey Thai
on the streets
What to Know
This is the second installment of the Night + Market saga. This one, unlike the others, allows for reservations. They are highly suggested.
Happy hour is Monday-Friday 5-7pm with $8 bites and $8-9 wine + cocktails.
What to order: party wings, pastrami pad kee mao, and try the Thai martini with lychee.
Stop #3 — After dinner
Rock Out
on the dancefloor
What to Know
The Roxy opened on September 20, 1973 with a central mission to treat every kind of musician humanely in a venue with excellent sound. The first show? A three day stint by Neil Young. 5,000 people showed up.
You can still score a great show for only $20. Check their schedule and give a band you don’t know a try. On our date we caught a band called Inhaler from Dublin. They were incredible.
If you’re planning to buy tickets at the door they only take cash. Either buy them online or come prepared. There is an ATM inside but they wont let you go in without a ticket.
Standing on the left side of the room can get annoying as the security guards clear a path contantly pushing the crowd inwards. Suggest the middle back by the bar or far right near the merchandise stall.