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The Room
A haven for the 'un'Hollywood Crowd
By Veronika Lazabal
Los Angeles has long been a paradise for posers, wannabe actors, and desperate cries for attention. Which is why it’s nice to know that there are still a few honest bars left in this town. The Room (on Cahuenga, off of Hollywood Blvd.) is just such an escape.
In the land of the terminally trendy, it’s rare to find a night spot that doesn’t have a red velvet rope and a line of silicon enhanced smiles out front. Enter, The Room. There is no rope. There is no line. There is no cover. Hey- there isn’t even a FRONT! The entrance is located in the alley out back, behind the Bar B Que place. The message is clear- if you don’t know…don’t go.
Once you walk inside, you get a feel for what The Room is about; a low key hangout without the pretentious air. It’s fairly small, pretty dark, and usually crowded- in a good way. The entire place was renovated about two years ago, so everything is clean and comfortable. There are deep leather booths lining all the walls, making for a great place to chill- or cuddle with a date. The wood paneling on the walls gives the place a 50’s feel, and the huge bar is the focal point of the entire place. Deep red lights and velvet drapes add to the intimate vibe. And ladies? The full sized bathrooms are immaculate.
Most nights there’s a live DJ playing everything from retro hits to techno to some blues remixes that are amazing. Tuesday nights are “Dirty”, which is all about Rock and Roll. (Newer sounds as well as rock classics). What you won’t hear on any night? Overplayed, teenage top forty radio. The music is danceable, and the small dance floor is usually crammed with revelers.
The highlight of The Room has got to be the bar itself. The ‘tenders here know how to mix a (strong!) drink, and have no problems filling requests. Drinks are reasonable priced, and service is quick. Everyone inside is surprisingly friendly: possibly a testament to the fact that The Room hasn’t been discovered by tourists or bar snobs yet.
Anyone whose ever attempted to park on Cahuenga Blvd. knows what a hassle it can be. So go with the vallet. Monday through Thursday it’s $3, and weekends it goes up to around $5. (Not including tip) Not bad, considering there’s no cover to get in.
The Room’s dim lighting and close quarters make it a great date place. Just keep in mind, the music is too loud to really have any meaningful conversation.
This place is for you if: You’re not into the “Hollywood” scene. You don’t want to spend a lot to have a good time. You don’t need or want to be seen by the paparazzi- or anyone else.
The Room
Phone: 323-462-7196
1626 N. Cahuenga Blvd.
Hours: 9pm – 2am
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