Rockwell - Los Angeles

Despite being fairly new, the place is already drawing a crowd, and word has spread quickly. The valet service at the back was fully booked by 10:15 PM on a Saturday, which is a common issue in LA—fashionably late arrivals can struggle to find parking. Thankfully, I was able to find a spot on the street just down the block. As I mentioned, there’s no real exterior indication of the lounge's presence on Vermont Avenue, just a small folding sign near the valet. Initially, we hesitated to enter what we thought was just the restaurant, unsure if we were at the right place. The restaurant itself was brightly lit with a small jazz band performing in one corner. I quickly asked a server for directions to the lounge and was relieved when he guided us through the hall. Entering the lounge was an unexpected delight—we found ourselves in a festive courtyard beneath the open night sky. A large tree adorned with small hanging lanterns created a beautiful ambiance. Although it was busy, it wasn’t the typical crowded scene you’d expect in Hollywood. The atmosphere was lively with a DJ spinning hip hop, R&B, and pop music all night, and we were fortunate enough to snag two stools at the bar. I was pleased to see they served my favorite gin, Tanqueray Rangpur. The bar featured a stunning illuminated bookshelf that stretched up to the high ceilings, showcasing their top-shelf liquors and a selection of wines. I wish I had checked their wine list before ordering, as I usually prefer to explore their offerings. The drinks were excellent, but I did find it a bit odd that they used clear plastic glasses in such a lovely setting; it felt out of place for such an elegant venue. The highlight is definitely the upstairs lounge. Ascending the stairs, you find yourself on an open second floor that wraps around the large tree in the center. High tables with stools create cozy spaces for intimate gatherings. In the back, there’s a small ramp leading to a private area offering stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline, making the second floor a perfect spot for a romantic date. Overall, I would definitely return to Rockwell; it’s a great venue for small groups. I’d recommend arriving early for parking and avoiding weekends in favor of a weekday visit. I had a wonderful night at Rockwell, and I look forward to going back.