Whisky
(310) 652-4202
8901 Sunset Blvd
West Hollywood,
CA
90069
34.0907
-118.3856
Neighborhoods: West Hollywood, Central LA
What People Are Saying About Whisky
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
This monstrous, two-story structure glows like a neon beacon across the Strip, but the bold exterior underscores the simplicity of the interior. Dark cavernous corners, bare, black walls and sticky floors give it a dive bar ambience, despite the trendy location. Rock fans of all ages gather on the dance floor to absorb everything from green alt rockers to heavy metal heroes. Patrons can meander upstairs for a seat or a better stage view, but the sound system encompasses most of the second floor.
The Draw
This establishment's legendary past still resonates from the bathroom walls where Jim Morrison wrote his poetry. The younger crowd filters in and out to support their favorite acts or to check out up-and-comers. An older crowd reliving the club's heyday arrives later in the evening. Anyone can pay to play the venue or rent the space for the evening, which lures bands of all sizes and talent levels.
User Reviews
aliota112
June 17, 2008
What the hell happened? The bands aren't good, security treats folks like animals with searches for knives and guns, it draws hip-hop hoods with "bling" who try to sell CD's (and get violent if you don't buy), and the bookers are real exclusive now. I've played this place a bunch of times, but they seem oblivious to acts who have been performers in the past who are now "outsiders" to their clique. Come on; this is not a popular place. This hasn't been for well over 30 years, and it won't be anytime soon. VERY DISAPPOINTING GIVEN IT'S HISTORY AND MY OWN AT THE VENUE. Whomever has taken over the bookings and their crew should be dismissed immediately, because their version of running a successful venue is not offering shows to the groups who have a history at the club under previous management. They "scout" pay-to-play bands on myspace, with no real success. Too bad; it was very cool, being a repeat performer between the years 2003-2007. Never again, I guess. One thing: watch out, bands; they've gone up on the ticket buying prices, which means you're not getting a good deal at all unless you have a fan base of 50 or up, which is not the case for most groups, I've found (especially during the week). Play somewhere else. Your fans will appreciate it more. I mean, they won't book a show with you (or at least they wouldn't in my case) that takes place in any kind of time that would allow for a reasonable marketing effort. The booker wanted to book me for one week later, even though I asked for a date a bit further in the future so I could market it (like all the other dates I played there under Gina). The person (Matt) pretty much blew me off in the old "Hollywood" manner. If you call them on June 1, they will offer you a show on June 7, and for most people, that kind of prep time is impossible. If you call in June and are seeking a July or August date (very reasonable for working people), you will be treated like a second class citizen, as I was by Matt.
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zenashort
September 02, 2006
So I went there to see a friend's band, which was awsome, but I was constantly irritateted by the staff and confused by the crowd. Now I'm old school, like 23, so I think rock concert I think movement- there was no movement from anyone, but my group. Head nodding was a rarity in the crown that had come to see rap/rock. What left me never wanting to come to this venue ever again, however, was totally the venue's fault. The staff was not only not friendly, not concert encouraging, but mean and rude. I seriously got pushed by the staff to stay " inside the (imaginary) fire lines" a half a dosen times. My friend who is 19 went out side to join other friends for a ciggarett and when everyone came back in she was held outside and not allowed back in. Now I'm not sure if the doosh at the front door was trying to embarras her, or had just relized that she'll never sleep with him, much like every other women for love or cash and this was his paathetic way of excersizing his might over her. Anyway, one quick talk from someone sorta important and she was back it- but warned. My boyfriend was also warned for me, b/c i kept getting in the "fire lanes" and therefor might be asked to leave. So yeah- the do what you want rock and roll... ah not so much more like stay in the lines, follow the directions, obey the crowd masters, and stand perfectly still while listening to your favorite local band on a sub par sound sytem.
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izelmorena
February 10, 2003
I love this place. An intimate club/bar with a sweet sound system. Warning: It is loud. But for people like me, it's great! Feel the music and dance. The bar is decent, don't order anything real fancy, everything is served in a plastic cup, but hey, drinking here is only 1/8 of the fun. Historic value, great gigs, fun place. Parking is available in the back. Just a little warning, for those who have cars that ride low, find another spot to park, or bring another car. You can cause some serious damage in the uneven lot in back. It's in desperate need of some repaving.
read full reviewThe Details on Whisky
Parking:
Street parking can be tricky, but they offer valet behind the club for $7.
Save Time:
People tend to congregate around the downstairs bar--for faster service, use the one upstairs.
Know Before You Go:
The bar won't serve anything in glass, so stick to beer and simple drinks. This isn't the place if you're in the mood for the perfect martini.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Bar & Club Type of Music:
Rock & Pop, Alternative Rock, Hard Rock & Heavy Metal
