Lucky Strike Lanes: Retro Hip

Hollywood Hangout

It’s one of those “why didn’t I think of that?!” concepts. A fun, funky cross between a bowling alley and a nightclub, Lucky Strike Lanes is bowling for grown ups. The difference is apparent as soon as you walk in the door. Neon is everywhere. Huge big screen televisions adorn the end of every lane. A genuine photo booth takes up one corner. And you haven’t even hit the bar yet…

First things first: If you’re looking for a regular, league filled, greasy burger and flat beer serving neighborhood bowling alley: keep looking. Lucky Strike is more of a nightclub alternative than a bowling alley. Not that the bowling isn’t fantastic- The lanes themselves are super smooth, making for a great game. It’s just that it’s Hollywood, baby, and this is one alley that’s so much more than balls and pins.

Geared towards the barely legal set, any given night will find the lanes crammed with frat boys, aspiring singers, successful models, and all the rest of the “beautiful people”. Throw in a smattering of everyday Joes on an after-work escape, add a few tourists, and you’ve got a night spot that is perfect for people watching. (This is a ton of fun from your lane’s private couch-complete with coffee table and mood lighting)

The DJ plays a lot of top 40 radio, with a few retro tunes thrown in, so don’t be surprised if a dance crowd forms under one of the many disco balls. If it gets too crowded, just head over to the long wooden topped bar. (Inside note- the bar top was lane 16 at the Star Lanes- the old Hollywood hangout that used to stand where Lucky Strike is now.)

The full bar menu is complimented by great bartenders. Really friendly (and easy on the eyes) they know how to mix a mean drink- and strike up a conversation. Ask for recommendations, and they will cheerfully offer up suggestions on all things booze. Don’t miss out on the bar food here, either. Not your typical bowling alley appetizers, you can order everything from Bar B Que chicken pizza to coconut shrimp. If you only order one thing, make it the mac and cheese balls. They’re killer.

Just as friendly as the bartenders are the guys working the bowling desk. Usually dressed like space cadets, these guys know how to p-a-r-t-y. You would never guess that they were at work. They have no qualms about dancing along to whatever the DJ is playing- occasionally even doing the dancing on the desk itself!

Looking for something a little different? Tuesday nights are comedy nights. And Sundays are Karaoke. Great place to bring a date… show off those skills you’re always bragging about.

Wait times to get in average from half an hour to two hours, but you can avoid the wait by coming early, having dinner, and staying for the after hours festivities. Larger groups usually have shorter wait times, so get a bunch of your friends together, and bypass the line all together. Dress code is smart casual. (Jeans are ok if your shirt is tucked in, no sports gear, super baggy clothes or plain white tees.) Your best bet for parking is either at the Hollywood and Highland complex ($2 for four hours with validation) or one of the lots on the east side of Highland (There are a couple of different lots, all charge around $3 flat rate)

This place is for you if: You’re looking for something fun to do for a special occasion or a night out, you are into the “Hollywood” vibe, and you’ve got some extra money to blow. (Drinks are a little on the pricey side, but there is no cover or drink minimum)

This place is not for you if: You’re on a tight budget, you’re over 35, you like quiet intimate hang outs, or you have to go to the restroom a lot. (The bathrooms are located down a long cement hallway- a little creepy if you’re going alone)

-Back to Top

Interested in Moving to or from Hollywood?

If so, make sure to check out the Real Estate section.

- Back to Nightlife