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Party Earth Review Hip Angelenos who used to venture east of Western only for jury duty now go for LA Live, the jewel of the city’s gentrified downtown scene. An entertainment complex with the Staples Center arena as its centerpiece, the... ... read full review
800 West Olympic Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Blue Line: Pico
213-763-5483
Daily, varies by venue
Downtown, Los Angeles –
Hip Angelenos who used to venture east of Western only for jury duty now go for LA Live, the jewel of the city’s gentrified downtown scene.
An entertainment complex with the Staples Center arena as its centerpiece, the venue offers a vast range of options including a sports bar and restaurant, upscale dining establishments, theaters, bars, clubs, and live music spaces.
By day, the main plaza is abuzz with buttoned-up business people grabbing a quick lunch, tourists checking out the Grammy Museum, and adventurous diners enjoying international fare including sushi at Katsuya, steak and seafood at ROCK’N Fish, and burritos at Rosa Mexicano, as well as the more plebian offerings served to sports fans at ESPN Zone.
As the downtown skyline begins to twinkle, a younger and more diverse city crowd packs in for concerts at the Nokia Theatre, upscale bowling at Lucky Strike, or salsa dancing to the throbbing beats of the Conga Room.
LA Live’s open-air setup and spacious plaza keep the vibe relaxed even during peak periods, and with the beefy security details roaming the premises, the party tends to remain fairly civilized.
Varies widely for concerts. Multicultural young professionals, sports fans, and tourists, 20s to early 30s.
ESPN Zone broadcasts a wide range of American and international sporting events. Bowling and drinks at Lucky Strike. First-run films at Regal Cinemas (1000 West Olympic Boulevard).
Professional sports at Staples Center (1111 South Figueroa Street), including the Lakers, Clippers, Kings, and Sparks.
Concerts at Staples Center, Nokia Theatre (777 Chick Hearn Court), Club Nokia (1111 South Figueroa Street), and the Conga Room.
Restaurants and eateries include Boca at the Conga Room, ESPN Zone, Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Katsuya, Lawry’s Carvery, New Zealand Natural, ROCK’N Fish, Rosa Mexicano, Starbucks, The Farm of Beverly Hills, Trader Vic’s, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, and Yard House.
Notable Happy Hours include Katsuya daily 5–8pm for appetizers, Trader Vic’s M–F 3–6pm, and Yard House M–F 3–6pm and Su–W 10pm–midnight.
Restaurant and bar prices vary by establishment. Events and concerts $15+.
Nice jeans, button-downs, and blouses at most restaurants. More casual on weekends. Trendy gear for guys and tight dresses for women at Lucky Strike and Conga Room.
Friday and Saturday nights for the clubs, and any night in the plaza after a game at Staples Center or a concert at one of the live music venues.
Rick’s Place at the Figueroa Hotel (939 South Figueroa Street) is great for post-event drinks away from the touristy masses.
LA Live User Reviews