Expert recommendations of the best clubs, bars, and other after-dark venues.
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"Sleek and unblemished club for Hollywood hipsters, Saturdays especially."—Rebecca Brown, editor, 944 (Los Angeles). Newest hangout for models, millionaires (Hugh Hefner, anyone?), and gawkers. White banquettes, terrazzo dance floor, bottle service, and outdoor patio. Cover fluctuates between zero and $20. 643 N La Cienega Blvd.; tel. +1 310 652 2012; www.sbeent.com.
Silverlake Lounge
"Eastside hipster's dark music dive of choice, showcasing everything from insanely loud to refreshingly laid-back sounds."—Lina Lecaro, co-author, Fodor's L.A. Silverlake has booked Rufus Wainwright and the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club for its unpretentious, celeb-frequented dive venue. Cash-only bar; cover from $5. 2906 Sunset Blvd.; tel. +1 323 663 9636; www.foldsilverlake.com.
The Rooftop Bar at The Standard Downtown L.A.
"Futuristic rooftop space makes a splash by day with DJs and plenty of bikini-clad pool play. After dark, it's just as sexy when the nearby skyscrapers light up the scene."—Lina Lecaro. Otherworldly, close-up view of downtown skyline. Cozy up with a "Sex on the Roof" (signature drink) on a settee by the outdoor fireplace. 550 S. Flower St.; tel. +1 213 892 8080; www.standardhotel.com.
Largo
"Comedy nights here are hilarious, but the music nights featuring Jon Brion, Michael Penn, and Grant Lee Phillips are like that terrific, elusive house-party jam session."—Lina Lecaro. Peaceful (no-talking rule in effect) den for singer-songwriters—most often regulars or part of the national circuit. Reserve for dinner (Italian, with $15 food minimum) or line up for standing-room-only tickets from $5. 432 N. Fairfax Ave.; tel. +1 323 852 1073; www.largo-la.com.
Spaceland
"Diverse scene for young and older indie bands."—Gary Knight, music journalist, Under the Radar magazine. Jewel of Silver Lake's underground music scene, with bands you've never heard of that are—or should rightfully be—well on their way to stardom. 1717 Silver Lake Blvd.; tel. +1 323 661 4380; www.clubspaceland.com.
Troubadour
"‘The Troub' is a rock 'n' roll institution in L.A., with raucous bookings: all the better to appreciate the fantastic acoustics."—Lina Lecaro. 1957 West Hollywood club where Elton John, Tom Waits, and many more legendary musicians played before they made it big. These days, headliners include Starsailor and Franz Ferdinand. "There's so much history here, but it's so unpretentious. It's my favorite venue."—Gary Knight, music journalist, Under the Radar magazine. Some shows free. 9081 Santa Monica Blvd.; tel. +1 310 276 6168; www.troubadour.com.
