Circle Bar
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: (310) 450-0508
- Cross Street:
- Kinney Street
- Hours:
- Mon-Wed, Sun 9pm-2am, Thu-Sat 8pm-2am
Editorial Review for Circle Bar – by Katie Heffernan
The Scene
A neighborhood dive for three decades, this Main Street bar has redefined itself as a destination for the single, 20-something lush. After enduring the sometimes half-block weekend wait outside, ex-fraternity boys and grown-up party girls cram into the crowded dark den where drinkers radiate from the central circular bar. The more intimate booths and bar stools fill quickly, but the best hottie-spotting--and shoulder-brushing--is done while squeezing against the red-lit walls, haphazardly decorated with old photographs. Circulating socializers eventually find enough room to groove on the dance floor.
The Draw
Swanky singles come to get down and dirty at this unabashed pick-up scene, where dancing to N.W.A. and the Beastie Boys seems secondary to making out on the dance floor. The red and black atmosphere also helps to bring out devilish tendencies, especially after downing a few strong drinks--most likely paid for by the winking cutie sitting nearby.
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Insider Tips
When to GoSunday through Thursday nights feature DJs spinning house and trance music. Other times, customers can rely on the early-'90s rap jukebox.
ParkingStreet spots are limited, but 24-hour metered parking is available in lots just down the block on Ashland and Kinney streets.
Look GoodSign up for the club's VIP list, which offers private party invites and drink specials.
User Reviews for Circle Bar
05/22/2008 Posted by beautynews_weekly
Ok, so I'll admit, I'd been to atleast one other "bar" that night, and I was indeed looking to snag a "real man". But unfortunately for me, there were none to be found. Drinks: Affordable at nine bucks Atmosphere: I saw a bunch of "White Rappers" or something outside, you know the get-o type people dressed in sweats and hoodies and baseball caps. Yhea those, guys, and when I pulled up in my car they seemed hostile...But not to worry, they were leaving...angrlly it seemed. Once inside, this place seemed like a good place for Interracial dating...great open scene for that kind of thing which I like. Ok, doorman will card you. However, I seriously, seriously wanted the blonde guy out front...maybe next time he'll have the Bhalls to come over and talk to me...Wink ....hey cutie..
Pros: The Door Man Security Guy
Cons: Stinky people
12/20/2007 Posted by jhoolko
"Dark hub for hooking up" seems to be a dead on review. The layout of this place makes it really awkward to do anything but squish up against kinda older creepy people you don't want to be touching in the first place. There aren't even cheap drinks to make up for it. And when my friends and I finally scored a table where we could actually do something besides squish ourselves up against the wall near the bar to let people walk by, it ended up being conveniently located next to the women's bathroom and the line was sticking out right in the middle of our party. I guess if you're looking to hook up with some recent college grad who spends his or her time hanging out on Main, then you're probably in luck, but if you're looking for a good time with some friends or a more conversational bar experience, stay away.
Pros: Hook-ups, dance floor
Cons: Parking, awkward layout, too loud, to dark, too creepy
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