Absinthe Makes the Tart Grow Fonder

EDISON, Downtown
Friday, 10:00pm-1:00am

We drove through the sketchy downtown area to the side alley where this hip lounge was located, beware of the homeless. We didn't feel like driving around the block for the umpteenth time in order to find a parking garage, so we broke our cardinal rule and opted for valet. We had strategized that if we arrived before 10:30pm we would just miss the line and luckily were right. The line can be a mood kill so do as we say and try to make it around 10:00pm.

We entered into the massive space which offered something at every corner, from the shadow puppets and black and white silent films to the brick walls and boiler tops. Waitresses toting fairy wings and bohemianesk glowing potion bottles wheeled shot carts around the room. The bouncers did a good job of keeping out the undesirables and maintaining a good sized crowd without allowing the room to become uncomfortably full. Though most patrons dress business/classy casual (no flip flops or jerseys... there is a dress code... seriously... check out the website) they are encouraged to wear their 1920s flapper gear.

Tip: If you're sporting a dress be sure to wear some undies and make em cute. The pervs lurking below the staircase always enjoy a free show... and do you really want your ass on youtube?

Taking a few laps around the bar is highly recommended, not just to check out the man selection but also to take in the ambiance. But if we must mention the boys, we'd have to say... late 20s and up, well dressed, and put together. The down side of this location is it is hard to tell who you are really getting. Are they truly the clean cut men that they portray or are the secretly frat boys in disguise, forced to adhere to the strict clothing requirements?

We wouldn't exactly call this a pick up spot. People go to Edison more for the feel and less for the action. The environment is quite stunning and always a favorite to bring visiting friends and LA newbies when looking to impress. The lounge somehow leaves a good taste in your mouth though one can't honestly mark it in the books as a sure fire crazy night out.

The beer selection is shitty, but the mixed drinks are delicious and service is snappy. Prices for a beverage can run a little high, though not too bad for LA, and just how we like em ... big, strong, and if you have more than one... you may be a little sore the next day. Beware, a few of those bad boys can knock you on your ass.

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Location: 10/20
Its downtown- what can we say. Its not close to anything else, the neighborhood is sketchy and parking is crappy.


Atmosphere: 19/20
What this place lacks in location it more then makes up for in ambiance. Beautiful setting, beautiful people (we think- its kinda dark), fun theme. If you wanna see a bar with personality done the right way this is the spot. Everything from the workers uniforms to the lighting in the bathroom fits the style without being over done and cheesy.

Sevice: 17/20
The bartenders are quick and the waitresess are efficient without being pushy. The shot girls are fun to watch and lend to the atmosphere without trying to upsell you.

Drinks: 17/20
Like we said before the beer list sucks but the mixed drinks are better then most. They have a lot of specialty drinks and the bartenders are stingy with the booze.

Price: 13/20
Drinks are a little much but not horrible for a nice lounge in downtown LA. Valet is $9.

Random +1 very informative website. Check it out- it lists all of the events, entertainment and dates that they are closed for private events.

Total: 77%