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A “stripped down” scene at decadent Bardot
August 14, 2010
LOS ANGELES, USA – When a bar shares a name with French siren Brigitte Bardot, you know there’s going to be some serious va-va-voom involved. Such is the case at Bardot in Hollywood, a sexy 1920s-themed nightclub where Brigitte’s signature fashion statement–various states of undress–can be seen at every turn.
The difficult-to-find entrance is Bardot’s most demure feature. It’s housed above landmark club Avalon, so to get inside, you have to walk past the main entrance to the Avalon and look for the smaller entrance to the side (near the big parking lot). Because it attracts an upper crust Hollywood clubber set, the door can be difficult–scoring an invitation to one of their theme nights (like “Classic Hollywood”) can help.
Once you’ve cleared the velvet rope, things get super sultry with crimson walls, suede sofas, dramatic chandeliers, tents of fabric, and Art Deco design touches. Sashay through the candlelit lounge, where you’ll glimpse starry-eyed couples disappearing into intimate crannies, and make your way to the stylish open courtyard, which welcomes hipsters ironically dragging on skinny cigarettes.
The states of undress begin with the waitresses seductively clad in vintage sequined black panties, fishnets, and heels. Then there’s the cadre of starlets in teeny dresses (and the men who chase them). And finally, don’t be surprised if the entertainment for the night is a titillating burlesque show. Definitely plan to break out that slinky little dress in your closet, glittering accessories, and killer heels (unless there’s a theme night going on…call ahead and dress accordingly).
To top off all that smoldering attire, the food program here is called “Promiscuous Dining,” a collection of fusion small plates courtesy of chef Jared Simons (formerly of Violet fame). You can flirt with a variety of tastes without committing to something more substantial, such as the Thai chicken sate, spicy tuna tartar, and rosemary roasted garlic shrimp. Cocktails, too, are slinky, with offerings like the Paradise Stinger martini (with a Pop Rocks candy rim!) and The Velvet Mambo (tequila, amaretto, orange, and cranberry juices).
The Old Hollywood glamour vibe provides an interesting counterpoint to the Young Hollywood antics here. When there’s not a retro jazz band or showgirl revue going up, you’ll likely find some of the hottest DJs in town–celebs included. Heartthrobs like Ryan Gosling have been known to give the turntables a spin. On Mondays, KCRW’s Chris Douridas hosts “School Night!” a mix of live bands and DJs for your snuck-out-on-a-weeknight dancing pleasure.
Overall, Bardot is a posh little spot with smooth vibes that will work for most any night-out plans, whether your pleasure is enjoying sophisticated drinks with your significant other, dancing with girlfriends to great tunes, or taking in a jazzy show. If you want to do a little star gazing, just remember to keep your eyes (like your layers of clothing) peeled.
Bardot
1737 N. Vine St.
Hollywood, CA
(1) 323-462-1307
Website
Map
Learn more about Bardot on The Purple Passport