A trendy ultra lounge for the ultra trendy
(Credit: Kenesha Sneed)
The basic setup is still the same, with a narrow lounge in the front and a dance floor in the back. Even the sparkly ceiling still glimmers above. But the vibe has changed thanks to the rock 'n roll design and hot cocktail waitresses dressed in ripped T-shirts, pleated red mini skirts and suspenders begging to be snapped.
You wouldn't be the least bit surprised if Slash came in with his entourage.
The walls are black and were painted to look like suede; the stainless steel bar is lined with faux snakeskin; the floors and tables are made of zebra wood; and a long black leather couch snakes around the bar giving respite to girls tired of teetering in their heels.
All of it is lit by chandeliers from Italy, which are not outdone by the screen made of metallic beads that circles around the top of the bar and turns colors, from blue to green to pink. It’s just like being at a show, only there’s no band.
The dance floor in the back is still tiny—the better to accidentally grind up against that person you’ve been eyeing—and the music is more of the rock and '80s varieties. Perhaps the best seat in the house is in the glass enclosed VIP lounge upstairs that not only overlooks the dance floor, but also has an open skylight to allow for smoking. Non-VIPs have to smoke out front, which isn't so bad because the bouncers are super nice.
Bouncers in Hollywood: Nice? Indeed. Owner Steve Fowler, who's best known around the club circuit as an upscale promoter with a soft spot for bountiful cleavage, wanted to create a comfortable neighborhood lounge with bouncers that didn’t belittle those unworthy of entrance.
But Fowler warns: "Guys in shorts and out-of-work actors with big egos will not get in. They especially won’t get in if they’re wearing a sideways Ed Hardy hat."
So what does it take to be entrance-worthy? Girls always have an easier time getting in and Fowler says the skimpier their clothing, the better. Dudes have a little harder time at the door, though when I was at Vice, there was plenty of man candy to go around.
Click here for Vice's address, phone number and website.
Alexandra Le Tellier is Bars & Clubs editor for Metromix Los Angeles.
