Before the Date…
The strip mall is almost unanimous with Los Angeles culture. But when you step out onto this packed parking lot you may not realize you’ve entered a microcosm of microcosms within Studio City. A notion to be realized by the nights end after you’ve wandered no more that 500 feet from where you currently stand.
So prepare your nights crew for an epic night of drinking, dancing, and exploring a tiny corner of LAs most prominent business feature, the strip mall.
St0p #1: 8pm reservation
SUSHI
In a local friendly sake & sushi joint
What to Know
Absolutely make a reservation, especially on weekends. Request the table in the middle, right in front of the windows.
The sushi is perfect for that “let’s get sake drunk” kind of night. Try the albacore crispy onion, baked langostino, and rock n’ roll.
Alternative: If sushi isn’t your cup of tea there are a few great Indian restaurants next door: Lal Mirch and Bollywood Cafe.
St0p #2: the 9 o’clock hour
COCKTAILS
IN A LOCAL “HISTORIC” DIVE
What to Know
Turn right as you exit Stop #1 and head to the far right corner of the stip mall. You’ll see some LA Kings flags that will mark the spot of this bar.
This bar has been a staple for actors, writers, and people in the “biz” since 1986. Apparently those folks used to be able to bring their residuals checks to exchange for drinks. This transactional tradition may have stopped but you’ll see some familiar faces from time to time.
Cocktails are the name of the game here with them giving real pours. If you’re feeling like a deal they’ve got $2 off whiskey Wednesdays, $2 off Tequila Tuesdays, and $5 Fireball Fridays.
Karaoke is the jam here with some big time hitters grabbing the mic. Every Sunday it starts at 9:30pm, Tuesday at 9pm, and, the ultimate, first Thursday of the month live band karaoke starting at 10pm.
St0p #3: after 10
LIVE MUSIC
in an old school british pub
What to Know
The set up when you get inside is not feng shui. The goal is to take over a table on the far right side across the dancefloor. Unfortunately, thats the furthest from the bar.
This bar has quiz nights (Mon & Wed), karaoke (Thurs), and open mic (Sun) but you’ve come here for the real deal: Live Band Weekends. One of their best regulars: The Jetlemons.