Every night, it seems, a new ultra lounge opens up, from
Teddy's to
Stone Rose Lounge to my all-time-favorite bar
Winston's, all of which manage to balance exclusivity with the laid-back vibe of a neighborhood bar.
Crimson, which shares a roof with
Opera next door, is the latest bar to hop on board the ultra-lounge bandwagon, but its spectacular design puts it at the head of the pack.
Say goodbye to chandeliers! The dance floor here is lit by a mesmerizing blown-glass installation. The walls are lined with python skin and soft chinchilla fur (both faux, of course); the ceiling’s tiled with red glass; the dance floor is dark wood and spacious; the mirrors are smoked; and the large, casual smoking patio, with dark red velvet couches, is one of the best in town.
Crimson is only open the first half of the week—though that will most likely change. Promoters Michael Bellisario (also an actor), Ryan Cook (also an extreme athlete) and Brad Hoss (also a co-owner of club
Play) are the studs behind Monday nights. They're known for bringing the kind of club kids who look like they've had guest appearances on "Entourage" or even on Jeremy Piven's arm.
Then on Wednesdays, David & David hook up with Jean Paul for arguably one of the best club nights in town. This trio, best known for the infamous nights at
Teddy's, lure in the vintage-chic crowd; the girls are sexy in tattered dresses paired with headbands and oversize Marc Jacobs purses and the boys are all about their peg-leg jeans and neon tank tops.
As for the music: That's what really seals the deal. Expect Blur, Depeche Mode and Prince as well as regular plays of Tommy James and the Shondells’ classic "Crimson and Clover." Get it?
Drinks: "The Drunken Groupie" is the bar's potent signature cocktail, but even if you don't order one you're likely to touch lips with a real drunken groupie.
Crowd: The promoters draw varying crowds, from vintage-chic to mainstream-trendy. The one thing they all have in common? The club kids are all gorgeous and they have endless energy that keeps them partying until last call.
Décor: Rock 'n roll fantasyland meets fashion-forward/edgy design that's unlike any other nightlife destination in town.
Insider’s tip: Tired of standing in line on a Monday? Flag down promoter Ryan Cook. He's the one with the awesome blond afro.
Click here for Crimson's address and phone number.Alexandra Le Tellier is Bars & Clubs editor for Metromix Los Angeles.
