Inside: Ritual [NOW CLOSED]

(Credit: Photo courtesy of Landers PR)

Remember White Lotus, which in its heyday attracted so many celebs that the paparazzi out front made it near impossible to drive down Cahuenga Boulevard? It’s been reborn into Ritual, a Zen-inspired club that can be quite relaxing for those A-list enough to get past the velvet rope.

The best spot in the house, by far, is the lush patio outfitted with banana trees, fountains, white candles and tons of seating. Not only does it have a European vibe, but the lighting gives people a golden hue, making the ladies look like they’re on the set of a Victoria’s Secret fashion shoot. Personally, I could party alfresco all night long and never venture inside; that’s how flawless the patio is.

The inside space has its perks too. For one thing, there’s a gorgeous restaurant space (dark woods, red and gold hues) and eating dinner here first guarantees entrance into the club — an incentive for those who don't have a connection to get past the velvet rope. Even better, the food is actually good. Chef Andy Pastore's Pacific Rim-style menu includes his signature Mystical Chef Andy Cut Roll made with made with caviar, crab, tuna, fried onion and, ahem, gold flakes. (Yes, you need to be loaded to roll at Ritual.)

The dance floor on the other side of the restaurant has a completely different vibe. With flashing lights and video streaming on the plasma screen, it's Vegas meets Ibiza, but classier.

The ultimate seal of approval, however, is that other club owners and promoters hangout at Ritual during their off time. James Sinclair, who owns Element and L'Scorpion, and Sarah Pantera, who promotes popular nights at Parc and Joseph's, are among the regulars.

Combine all these elements with four full-service bars–made of marble, mind you—and you're bound to have a night that's hotter than a Bikram class.

Drinks: The white grape juice martini is an interesting take on a classic cocktail.

Crowd: Ritual attracts an A-list crowd of power players and celebs.

Insider Tip: Eat dinner here first to bypass the velvet rope.

Alexandra Le Tellier is Bars & Clubs editor for Metromix Los Angeles.

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