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Blue Whale Bar
Categories: Nightlife Bars Arts & Entertainment Jazz & Blues Nightlife Jazz & Blues Bars, Jazz & Blues [Edit]
123 Astronaut E S Onizuka StSte 301
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Neighborhoods: Downtown, Little Tokyo
(213) 620-0908
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 8 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Mon, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Classy, Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
81 reviews for Blue Whale Bar
Review Highlights
"...gem is tucked neatly inside Weller Court on the 3rd floor."
(in 15 reviews)
"Mitch the bartender was a blast, haha."
(in 13 reviews)
"They were talented musicians."
(in 4 reviews)
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81 reviews in English
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Review from sara l.
1/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
I have kept to a self-imposed policy of never mixing my business (music) with my pleasure (food) when it comes to http://Yelp.com. Until now. I just couldn't hold back, and given Yelp my elite status, I had to let the world know. Please understand my bias--I've been coming here probably once a week or so since it opened, either to hear their music or to play music there. However, there's a reason that we jazz musicians love the BW so much, and that is that it is the ONLY jazz club and bar that has shown the most sincere dedication to the music and musicians on every level--management, booking, drinks, food. The place has it all.
From a musician's standpoint:
I love performing here. The staff makes us feel very welcome, parking is free, the environment is beautiful, but best of all, Joon books excellent, creative, wonderful musicians. The piano is stunningly gorgeous and always in tune. Mitch and the gang at the bar always make good drinks, and always have a great attitude.
From a jazz-lover's listening standpoint:
I love listening to music here. The seats are moveable and lend to a really relaxed vibe. The strict no talking policy lets guests really focus on the music, and those who want to chat can sit at the bar in back. There are chairs with backs for anyone who needs one, the parking is free, and the cover is rarely more than $10, almost all of which goes directly to the musicians, which of course makes me happy and confident that they are making a living.
WONDERFUL. -
Review from Gabriela G.
Los Angeles, CA
My friends are in town and wanted to hear some good jazz. After much research we met up in Little Tokyo for the Blue Whale experience. The $10 cover did not bother me one bit. The musicians were top notch and I would have happily dropped $60 for a show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall to hear them play, so paying $10 at the door felt like a steal!
Wine range was average: $9-$15. Beer and hard liquor also available though wine seemed to be the drink of choice in the crowded room.
Eclectic crowd across race, gender, age sat attentively hovering over beer bottles and wine glasses with eyes closed and feet tapping listening to the amazing sounds that consumed the air.
Set up like a theater, only modern and slick decor give it a trendy bar vibe. Sound is amazing. Service is good and fast. When not serving the customers, bartenders are also standing near the stage enjoying the show.
Great place to impress a date. Photography exhibit covered the walls. Restrooms were large, modern and clean.
Wine was ok. Did not try the food.
Accepts credit cards but there is a minimum.
I could see this place becoming a Friday night hangout spot. If you want to come alone it's totally acceptable too. The stage and seats are set up so that you can enjoy the show even if you like to ride solo. Wont meet too many people while the band is playing since everyone is concentrated on the music, but post show everyone migrates over the small bar near the entrance to share about the experience with one another. you could even be nice enough to buy the musicians a drink who will join you post show at the bar to celebrate.
Celing has a Rumi quote about Listening:
"LISTENING
What is the deep listening?
Sama is a greeeting from the secret ones inside
the heart, a letter. The branches of your intelligence grow new leaves
in the wind of this listening. The body reaches a peace.
Rooster sound comes, reminding you of your love for dawn.
The reed flute and the singer's lips:
the knack of how spirit breathes into us
becomes as simple and ordinary as eating and drinking.
The dead rise with the pleasure of listening.
If someone can't hear a trumpet melody,
sprinkle dirt on his head and declare him dead.
Listen, and feel the beauty of your separation, the unsayable absence.
There's a moon inside every human being.
Learn to be companions with it. Give more of your life to this listening. As brightness is to time,
so you are to the one who talks to the deep ear in your chest.
I should sell my tongue and buy a thousand ears
when that one steps near and begins to speak." -
Review from Kathryn E.
West Hollywood, CA
12/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
The boyfriend and I came here last month and had ordered some organic champagne, a cheese & fruit plate, hummus, and olive plate. It was all fantastic. The Guava Jam was incredible, reminded me of Jamaica.
They had an older speak-easy type lady singing live against a great piano player too.
Both the mood and food were enjoyable. It was a great break from the loud bars and clubs that cause your ears to ring when you leave. The crowd was less than 30 and bartenders were helpful in suggesting wines too. We will definitely be back! -
Review from j b.
Irvine, CA
1/16/2012
I think Blue Whale is an amazing club. . . the staff work really hard to make sure everyone is situated. . . food is pretty good and the music is so so incredible. Spot on Blue Whale. Dont want to leave out it has it's own parking structure for customer convience. Who could ask for anything more???
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Review from Alexis R.
Santa Ana, CA
12/8/2011
I didn't know I liked Jazz so much.
I think the combination of the cool atmosphere+ the audience members whom were also into the music+ the awesome musicians that perform here helped me realize how chill jazz is.
Blue Whale has it all, get yourself a glass of wine and sit back and enjoy the jazz.
I loved it, had a blast! -
Review from colin d.
Los Angeles, CA
10/9/2011
my first yelp review. I had to sign up just to rate this place. a bad experience for everyone in my group. the bartenders were sooo rude. ive never been yelled at by a bartender before this, nor have I every heard a bartender tell everyone in the bar to 'shut up and stop talking'. The bar wasn't even crowded and he took our order from the opposite end of the bar by going "hey! You two! HEY! Speak up! What do you want?" all while not looking either of us in the eye. I was going to just laugh it off until a few minutes later he screamed for the entire bar to shut up.
the ten dollar charge is an insult for a little bar with no beers on tap, just-okay live music that you arent allowed to talk during (the bouncer went around shushing any group he thought was being too loud, and shining flashlights at groups that were whispering) and all in an environment with a seeming lack of air conditioning. it was so hot inside and it wasnt anywhere near capacity.
we wanted to leave after 1 drink but had to stay because there is a $20 minimum credit card purchase. thats right. $20. so if you drive and dont have cash- like my friend did- you are stuck in this place for three drinks. I am writing my first review on yelp specifically to hate on this place. my friends and I were all in shock by the service and experience, especially after reading such positive yelp reviews. los angeles is a big city. go somewhere else. seriously. -
Review from Jessica Y.
Glendale, CA
**Jazz music enthusiasts (a nicer word for "geeks") come together as one**
If I lived in the Little Tokyo area, I'd be a regular here (every single night if the cover charge wasn't $10).
Live jazz bands are scheduled to take stage, while the audience sip on cocktails and sulk in brassy tunes and solos.
Hmmm, extra sexy points if a man knows how to play the baritone sax.
What? I didn't say that! *geek*
Love the unorganized cushiony pods scattered out, instead of standard seats, it feels like everyone is sitting on one large platform cushion -brings comfort, along with design appeal.
Blue Whale Bar is appropriate for a date night, a night out with friends, to come by yourself and nap (no, not napping. I'd like to think of it as closing your eyes and thinking for a while). It really is perfecto.
And if you don't want to be in the "audience," you can sit at the bar section and eat/drink/listen to some background music..
The bartenders were personable. The bartender lady poured my glass of wine, a standard amount, and told me to hold on and wasn't satisfied with the amount she poured. She then cracked upon another bottle and poured a bit more. Bang for my buck, thank you!
In conclusion, DON'T come here. I want this place to be least crowded as possible. But, sigh, if you must, it's tucked inside the 3rd floor of the plaza where Orochon and Curry House are.Listed in: DTLA, a night out, Jessica Winehouse, the wine-o, Little Tokyo
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Review from Jason S.
San Jose, CA
8/7/2011
Awesome bar in Little Tokyo, right next to Orochon Ramen. The place is really nice. When I went, there was a $10 cover charge as they featured a band playing experimental music while they rolled a black and white movie of going under the sea behind them, playing to the movie.
Tried the tuna sliders and the roasted shrimp and bruchetta. The tuna sliders were amazing - light yet hearty, the sauce they add sells the package. The roasted shrimp was delicious, too - and they alternate nightly specials here.
In a plaza on the 3rd floor. Private garage parking. Hidden gem for sure. May not always have cover depending on if there's an act or not. Chill mood, modern decor.
There was some guy painting the night we came. Painting and drinking beer in a hip bar with a live band...so normal. -
Review from Brian L T.
Los Angeles, CA
8/1/2011
This place is pretty cool. It has a slightly up-market, chic, though eclectic atmosphere, and the band I saw perform there was exceptionally good. I am no jazz critic, but I dare say I know good music when I hear it. The drinks were strong and quite tasty and when the bartender, Mitch, forgot to put through my order for food, he gave us the drinks on the house. Though we were left a little hungry, I must say that that is superb customer service.
Only thing I thought a little odd was the bouncer enforcing a 'no talking policy' even when people were just whispering inaudibly, but hey, if it helps the performance, so be it. -
Review from Dustin T.
Los Angeles, CA
11/21/2011
Quite possibly the most polite staff I've encountered in LA thus far. Drinks are a little pricey but the atmosphere and music is great. The location is kind of weird. It's on the third story of what resembles a roofless shopping mall so it's a little difficult to find
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Review from Diana R.
Los Angeles, CA
6/9/2011
This place is the worst. Don't come.
I'm just kidding, I LOVE this place, I just kind of want to keep it a SUPER secret. This is a fantastic spot for music lovers who want to appreciate some great tunes without any pretentiousness. There are a couple of rules you need to follow, but the music is worth it.
$10 cover per person (think of it as paying for a concert ticket). Drinks are heavy handed (thanks bartenders) and food is decent if you want to nosh while listening.
5 stars for one of the most unique places in LA. I hope it stays open forever. -
Review from Helen P.
Los Angeles, CA
5/26/2011
What a great bar! I had no idea where I was going with my sister last night except that it was at the Weller Court in Little Tokyo. I haven't been in Weller Court in a long time...I used to go often as a child with my mom and sister, following my mama to the Japanese bookstore and dining at either the Curry House or Umemura (now sadly closed).
Located on the third floor, the Blue Whale was an unexpected surprise. We were a little disappointed that we had to pay a $10 cover charge because my sister was under the impression that the event that night was part of the UPenn Alumni but the doorman had no idea of what she was talking about. Since I had never been there before, I said what the heck, let's check it out.
So we paid our $10 and went inside. It was a cool space, the entrance area leads into a bar to the left and straight ahead a performance space. When we went, it was for a photo-exhibit and jazz concert by an artist named Jay Matsueda (a Penn alum). It was a nice space, with bluish gray walls and wooden paneling in the back. The place wasn't that big but a nice intimate performance space.
My sister and I decided to get some drinks- the wines were generally about $9 and there were decent selections of red and white and a good selection of beers. I decided to get a gin and tonic and our bartender was really nice, she gave great recommendations to my sister (who wanted something light).
Afterwards we listened to the live performance which was pretty good. They have cube upholstered seats as well as some larger rectangular ones that serve as seats and coffee tables. The bathroom was surprisingly big too and they had a cool concrete sink- I still couldn't get over how spacious the bathroom was!
The food selection seemed pretty intriguing as well. I didn't get to try anything because I had just eaten dinner before getting there, but will definitely have to come back to try it. One of the musicians also told us as we were leaving that they have $5 Tuesday night jam sessions that start at 9pm and go until late. Sometimes they play about 40 sets!
I will definitely be coming back for that! -
Review from Sara R.
Los Angeles, CA
5/19/2011
What the ....?
Thanks to yelp, I was prepared to look for this place on the third floor of some building.
What I was not prepared for, was the street it's on (address-wise). It's like an alley, but not. It's a dead-end, and it looks like you really could *end* up *dead*. I parked next to this liquor store, thinking that it at least provided some type of commotion and someone would hear me if I screamed. But then again, a liquor store is probably not the best place to seek help or.. trust.
I got past all of that (and yes, I was by myself, because I like being a loner every third or fourth weekend), and walked into the "area" where this place is in. It's dark. It's not facing a street or any civilization. It's vacant. It's quiet. Now, I'm fairly new to jazz, but you can hear it from a distance. There is usually the trail of the bass guitar.. thumping away.. but nope. Not a peep. I get to the third floor and there are a couple of restaurants but they seem empty and like this is some sort of a trap and now it's too late and I'll never see my wam, cozy bed ever again.
I finally see it. Blue Whale Bar. Yes! I run, thinking I've escaped the horror-movie-in-the-making, and am greeted with a bouncer who looks sort of bored. Before I pay the $10 cover, I ask that I peek inside. It's barely 1/4 full at 11pm on a Friday night. The people inside look like men nearing the mid-life crisis stage. The band doesn't remotely look into it.
Sadface! After two days of anticipation to check it out, thumbs way down. Granted, I didn't give it a chance, but the location is unappealing (it's one thing to be secluded in a chic and mysterious way.. or vintagey and dark aura-ish, but it's another to be just plain bizarre. And scary. Maybe it was an off-night, maybe I was just scared because I was alone, maybe a lot of maybes. And maybe I should stop writing this review. -
Review from Sara H.
Van Nuys, CA
7/5/2011
My favorite Jazz club! I can't even begin to say how much I love the Blue Whale. Aside from the club's sexy good looks, the staff is so warm and inviting that they make we want to come back the moment I step out their doors.
I can't thank Joon, the owner, enough for providing such a wonderful place for creative music/musicians to thrive. (And the food and drinks are to die for too!) Come support this place...there is no where else like it in L.A. -
Review from Paula L.
6/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Jazz clubs. The better kind of club. Ever so classy.
The kind of places where the only bass you hear comes from a giant cello, no drunks girls are hogging the bathroom, and there are seats a plenty.
Since this was my first jazz club in Los Angeles, I'm hesitant to give it 5 stars. I twas love at first listen. Blue Whale is a very nice, chill, intimate club with great performers and strong drinks & a small food menu to match.
Despite this place being located in a popular Japanese mall...I was surprised how non-Asian this club was.
THINGS TO KNOW:
- Food is served here!
- The acts seem to change often. There is a schedule on the chalkboard inside the club. It ranges from trios to a full 15 member band. Cover ranges from $5 to $10.
- Bartenders are SUPER sweet!
- Semi-older crowd.
So have a glass of red wine, some freshly fried sweet potato fries, and let some truly fabulous local talent take you on a ride! -
Review from Marissa C.
Chatsworth, Los Angeles, CA
7/29/2011 5 Check-ins Here
The main reason why I come to this place is for the live jazz. It's a great space - warm and inviting - and just an all-around great music venue. The owner is a super nice guy (shakes your hand and remembers your name!) and definitely knows great music, so the bands that play here are stellar. Even more awesome is that he upholds a no-talking-during-the-show rule, which is great for the listeners not to be distracted by obnoxious bar talk during the performance. I'm a musician myself, so I love it :P
Haven't tried the food, though it looks great. Drinks are made well too, yet the I definitely prefer the male bartender over the female. He can mix anything and he's really friendly. The female bartender barely knows how to make anything and she gives off an I-hate-my-job vibe. So that's definitely a turn-off. (Case-in-point: I ordered a glass of water when I arrived and then another later that night and she gave me grief about having to wash my glass too often. Huh?!)
Anyway, go for the amazing live music!!
Quick tip: if you park in the underground structure beneath the plaza, show your parking ticket to the doorman and it's free :) -
Review from kmama m.
Los Angeles, CA
8/1/2011
I like the vibe--it is somewhere between Oberlin College art installation free for all cocktail party and uber chill only the knowledgable are welcome jazz speakeasy.
I liked the trio playing well enough, but I wasn't blown away the way I usually am (I am SUCH an easy date when it comes to most live music,--I just sit there with a dopey grin drinking it all in).
Do not think this place is worth a $10 cover, unless that's what keeps the crazies out...drink prices were reasonable given that. -
Review from Imran H.
Diamond Bar, CA
10/19/2011
Rose will get the points for this place. Gratzi* So I walk in and there are a @ least 50-60 people standing around what appeared to be a small orchestra- literally. Very quite upon entry, hence everyone deeply admiring the show. Silent discussions, no cell phones, but all the more fun actually. The music was inspiring. The vibe went well with the cab sav I was throwing back. I do not recall the food devoured that evening- fail. Nonetheless, it will come back to me, wow.
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Review from Megan F.
Claremont, CA
8/8/2011
This place is great! It's tucked into a corner on the third floor of an oddly-hidden shopping center (Weller Court). We actually thought we were lost until we stumbled upon the entryway into a well-lit courtyard. I went here with some friends, just to check it out, and we had a great time.
Cover was $10. One of my friends was under 21, and initially the bouncer said that they typically didn't let in underage people without parental supervision, but kindly let us all in when he learned that our underage guy was our DD. Whoo-hoo for making good choices!
The band playing was.....interesting. good, definitely, but we jokingly described their sound as galactic jazz. I was far more into it than I thought I would be.
The Blue Whale is very chill, in an artistic sort of way. It reminded me a little of an art gallery opening, actually. They have a bar right when you walk in, and then out past that is the performance space. Lots of cube seating (like ottomans and whatnot) grouped around. Diverse crowd, in terms of age, race, etc.
I didn't try the food, having just come from dinner, but the specials looked good. And my bf's drink was $12, which we felt was a little much, although it was a pretty good drink.
This would be a fun place for a date night, although the no-talking-while-the-band-is-playing rule IS enforced, so you'd have to limit any getting-to-know-each-other to the breaks between sets. -
Review from Emily C.
Cerritos, CA
3/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
My friend and I were looking to do something different. We had graduated from the clubbing lifestyle and didn't really feel like going to some loud bars filled with belligerent drunks, so we found this place through Yelp.
I don't pretend to know a lot about jazz music, I just know I like listening to it so I was excited to go here. There was a $10 cover, but I didn't mind since parking was free and there would be live music. The bouncer was very nice to us, which was surprising. Inside it kind of looks like a museum with a very dark setting. I loved everything about it, the hardwood floors, the small bar, the fact that it was't packed and people could sit.
We started a bar tab, sat down on the comfy ottomans, and listened to the band (I think Rick was playing?). It brought a little tear to my eye knowing there are actually younger people out there that appreciate jazz music.
Anyway, the bartender was really sweet, he suggested a beer for my friend since she wanted something light and didn't know what to get. He also gave us a free beer since he thought he had lost my credit card. Who does that? It was a very nice gesture and much appreciated.
I can't wait to come by again. -
Review from Erica J.
3/15/2011
Low-key locale with amazing acoustics for listening to music. The focus is on the jazz music. When the band plays, the crowd is hushed and you can hear each note clearly flow into the next. The staff is very friendly and warm, whether you're new or old to the place. Just don't expect to come and talk loudly with your friends, with the music as a backdrop.
Well-designed, with comfy lounge-worthy ottomans and stools for seating in the stage area. The bar area has an equally inviting lounge area, but it's more darkly lit.
It's a place you go to let yourself sink into the music, perhaps with a cocktail or beer in hand, and relax. Definitely an unexpected find in the Little Tokyo area. Parking is underground in Weller Court; if you tell them you're there for Blue Whale, your parking cost is covered. -
Review from Mark G.
Los Angeles, CA
4/7/2011
This place is great! It has a very intimate feel and a good vibe. The only thing that caught me by surprise were the drink prices. I knew they would be kind of expensive, but $28 for two drinks seems really expensive to me!
Definitely a go-to place though, if you want to see live music in a laid back atmosphere. -
Review from emily g.
5/30/2011 2 photos
Unique bar with amazing musicians, great bartenders willing to customize drinks, and a very chill atmosphere. What more could one ask for?
It is definitely worth a visit if you are more interested in experiencing great music than in drinking or socializing. I have been twice and plan to return. -
Review from claudia g.
Los Angeles, CA
12/7/2010
Blue Whale is hidden on the top floor of the Weller Court Building. The gentleman working the door does a great job directing you to silence during performances ;-o. The bartenders are quick and polite at getting your drinks, but be aware of the $20 credit card minimum or have $cash.
Once seated in front of the performer, get ready to lose yourself to whatever BeBop, Afro Beat, Jazz Fusion they've got goin on. -
Review from Gil K.
Torrance, CA
5/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
The interior is cool, accent lighting made me sweat, but the bar area is unique. It's elevated so you have to sit on tiny chairs but I didn't sit there. the bartender let me sample some yamazaki 12 yo. which was a kind gesture. the seating is really uncomfortable, just a bunch of leather ottomans. I did NOT enjoy the music here, the guy had stupid names like I can't even remember. the drummer was the writer and he had some good offbeat stuff but it was too hectic to blend in with the VIOLIN (lol). Overall, the musical experience was atrocious and the seating was uncomfortable. I won't come here again.
This to know:
I paid a $10 cover -regret
No talking during the set - like Rebecca P. I felt like this was a great way to respect the artists but I felt like I was in elementary school -
Review from ja'niya w.
Los Angeles, CA
1/2/2011
The Blue Whale Bar is GORGEOUS.
Artsy. Not a scene. Certainly, has an art gallery\industrial feeling.
Musically, the venue is brilliant. Live jazz music. Classic vibe about it. Beautiful enveloping sound. The arc like setting is designed for a performance engaging audience. Good energy. Visited the day before Christmas. Great long musical sets. We got there late, and the band played till 12:30 am.
$10 cover..... well worth it. Perfect evening for a lovely escape!
The drinks, were wonderful. Overall, I found myself being more 'daring' than usual. Thoroughly enjoyed the effort, and the creativity the bartender put into making my mixed drinks so great.
Really ADORED the experience!
Venue\Bar: A
Setting: Artistic A
Drinks: A
Music: B+ -
Review from Lily L.
Orange County, CA
9/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Here to see josh nelson - great music! We had to wait over an hour to get into the joint because they were at capacity and only got to see the 2nd set. HOWEVER, the venue was awesome! The place is quaint with a bit of an older, but hip crowd, I might add. We paid $10pp to get in and you did not have to buy a drink (like other jazz lounges do). Will come here again!
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Review from Veronica H.
Santa Ana, CA
8/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place is a little hard to find (it is on the 3rd floor of the Weller Center and if you park across the street after hours you have to go into the video store and buy a parking ticket or you will be towed, randomness). We got there a little late and the bouncer did not charge us a cover. We still were able to enjoy about 45 minutes of the band and had a drink. The bartenders were attentive and super friendly and the crowd is an older mature crowd. Even if you aren't into jazz you cant go wrong. I will definitely be going back to this place again.
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Review from eileen b.
Los Angeles, CA
2/14/2011
Went here with my boyfriend last week...LOVED the atmosphere and staff.
Cute little bar, artsy setting, beautiful music.
The door guy and bartenders were friendly and fun, and the food was great too!
Definitely recommended! -
Review from Diana J.
Alhambra, CA
11/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love this bar! I found it on yelp, it's a little tucked away so I would have never stumbled across it on my own but now it's my favorite bar! The drinks are great, the music is great and the bartenders and gate keeper are 2nd to none. I'm afraid to gush about it too much cuz I dont want to blow up my spot but here it is.
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Review from Tai T.
Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles, CA
3/5/2011
I really, really wanted to like this place seeing that there were so many 5-star reviews by so many reviewers but I have to say, I came away with a pretty "Meh" experience. There wasn't anything wrong with the service itself. The bouncer was the nicest and friendliest bouncer I've ever encountered anywhere in Little Tokyo. Though I didn't order anything from the bar, I can tell just by observing that they really do care about their patrons and make every attempt to accommodate them.
The jazz musicians last night were...ok. My buddy told me that supposedly the musicians that night specialized in "smooth jazz." Now, I don't claim to have an expert's knowledge about jazz or claim to know anything about jazz aesthetics but this is not smooth jazz. And I'm not really an avid listener of smooth jazz either. I've heard a few songs here and there on Pandora internet radio that happens to be categorized as smooth jazz but by far, I'm no expert. I'm sure there are a variety of styles of jazz and sub-genres of those styles but again, I don't think that night was "smooth jazz" by any meaning of the word. If anything, it's more contemporary jazz with a hint of old school jazz. None of the music sets they played were original. They were spin-offs of the originals and the pianist even said they were spin-offs of the originals.
They were talented musicians. I liked the cello player the best. He provided the general overtone of all the musical sets. The drummer provided the structure while the pianist was allowed to play whatever he wanted to guide and lead the music. All of them seemed really into their music, which shows that they are passionate about what they play. A+ there.
I'm not sure what this other reviewer said about this place having an east coast hipster vibe. I'm from the east coast (Boston, Massachusetts) and I can tell you that this is not east coast hipster vibe. In fact, I'm not sure what kind of vibe this place has. I have mixed feelings about this place. It definitely tries to be classier than other jazz clubs but at the same time, it's quite chill.
Would I come back? Probably not. Not my scene but it may be yours so you should still come check it out at least once and bring your boyfriend or girlfriend. A thing to note, this place caters to mainly Caucasians. Not a bad thing in itself but be aware that the audience is mostly white. If that's your thing, you can certainly meet some nice single guys and gals here. If not, you should still come here just to see if the vibe is right for you. It has an artsy, classy feel. That's probably the best way to describe this place. -
Review from Raphael C.
Harbor City, CA
8/22/2010
Dear Yelp! Friends and Frenemies,
"It's been a long time, I shouldn't have left you.... Without a dope beat to step to...."
- Timberland
For the discerning type, like myself, that dislikes crowded trendy bars and ponders the quandaries of jocking for position at a crowded DTLA scene*. I perhaps have found my favorite place to drink in all of Los Angeles. Of all places, at the top floor of the Wellar Court in Little Tokyo.
(*) I prefer a place that is quiet, relaxed, and has a decent whiskey selection. I really hate yelling at people over loud music to ask how they are doing.
Live Jazz music played by talented musicians, in a space that is aesthetically pleasing and justifiably comfortable. This place has clean bathrooms and does not really invite the douche bag crowd. So... in turn no unwarranted vomit on the floors and obnoxious drunks are hard to come by at this classy joint.
A double Yamazaki (12 Yr) served neat is my speed. And this place obliges like the best bed and breakfast that you have ever had the pleasure of staying. Unbelievably hospitable and is a true Little Tokyo gem.
This place has all the coolness of a speakeasy without the whole pretentiousness of "I'm dressed in 1920's costume bullshit." Nice and quiet with educated bartenders that know their stock. This place does get its fair share of clientele, but is not claustrophobic like other places I could mention.
Now listen to this. I leave my drink at the bar to have a cigarette in the smoking patio. I return to find my untouched drink joyfully resting in a covered ice bucket in the same place I had left it. Who the fuck does that? These people apparently do.
The bartenders at this place love their job and truly enjoy working at a Jazz Bar. They are weathered musicians that have a genuine respect for the live music being played and kind of give a shit about YOUR overall experience. How many bartenders can you say the same about? I think I answered my own question.
Best bar/live music venue I've been to in a very long time.
Sincerely Yours,
(Back with a Mother F*ukn Vengeance!)
Raphael C. -
Review from Jennifer V.
San Fernando, CA
12/14/2010
I looove this place. Its a hidden gem. I came here recently for my boyfriends birthday. He's a true jazz fan so i decided this place was worth a try having read the previous reviews. As soon as we walked in we were greeted by the bouncer, who was very nice, polite and welcoming. He told us a little about the place and we preceded to sit down and watch the live performers. They were amazing performers! We had never really heard an amazing vibraphone player quite like this one. We really liked the atmosphere of the place. It was very intimate and the instruments sound great in that room.
After the first set was played, we decided to get a drink at the bar. Again we were greeted by a very friendly bartender. I wasn't quite sure what i was in the mood for so the bartender whipped up one of his specialties and it was by far one of the best drinks ive ever had! No joke. It was like a little piece of art, so pretty i didn't even want to touch it.
After the second set my boyfriend decided to buy the vibraphone's player cd. He kindly offered to sign it. He was very approachable and they stroked up a conversation. He thanked us for coming out and we ended the night on a good note.
Its a $10 cover but its well worth it. The drinks are very delicious. People are very nice and polite. Immaculate bathrooms. Great atmosphere. -
Review from Saori H.
La Puente, CA
12/29/2010 2 Check-ins Here
So I came by this area to look for this bar, and found myself walking around in the dark, getting lost! Anyways, please know that this bar is located in the upper corner of the Weller Court!
This place is tucked into the corner and you can't even notice the live music until you step into the glass doors. Music usually starts around 9:30 until around 12:30, but the sound in this little place really rocks! The walls really brought out the best in the echo of the sound and really brings out that RAT TAT TATT!
Even though this place is cozy-feeling, the interior is contemporary and intereting... I love how it's super relaxing, this place just gets you so into the mood with each performance, it's a perfect place to just forget about your long day at work. :) -
Review from Rebecca Y.
Los Angeles, CA
9/19/2010
We loved the vibe the minute we walked in! Big John at the door was friendly and interesting. Then we met Mitch the bartender/manager who made us the MOST amazing yummy drinks.
We took a seat and reveled in the live jazz. The musicians were of the highest quality! The intimate setting is just right and the focus is definitely on the music.
We had fun tasting a few more of Mitch's concoctions...then tried the food. I can't wait to go back and the the crab/avocodo dish. You must try it.
Downtown's newest hidden gem...Blue Whale Bar. -
Review from David Iceman L.
Los Angeles, CA
I've been to this bar since it opened. I am not a frequent patron because I am not a jazz fan, especially hard core jazz (hence, I am always sitting at the far corner of the bar when I do stop by--DON'T TAKE MY SEAT!!!). However, Blue Whale has the most talented musicians playing than any other jazz bar in LA. So if you are a music enthusiast, I suggest this place. They even have some classical performances. They might even allow some fat, bald guy spit (rap) someday before it closes (or was it after).
I noticed some people complained about the half empty seats, pricey drinks, and $10 cover charge--IT IS A LIVE JAZZ BAR bunch of morons!!! It is a recession and most people cannot afford to be going out to spend $50-100 (assuming you drink 4+ drinks) for entertainment these days; and the musicians have to eat, the drinks are average price if you compare to any other bar (the morons must be used to drinking out of paper bags in a 7-11 parking lot).
Mitch (Martin), Wes, Jaime, Eve & Rob, are all friendly and make great drinks (especially Newcastle in a bottle). JK. In fact, I heard a rumor that Fidel Castro might sneak into the country to taste the Mojito here--that is how good these bartenders are. In addition, Mitch and Rob have a vast database of useless knowledge (trivia), so for those of you who are trivia pursuit and/or jeopardy buffs, come and have a few drinks and shoot the trivia breeze with either or both. By the way, if you see a fat, bald guy in the corner, don't get him started on trivia (because he thinks he is the shiznit. Did I spell that correctly?). Oh, I forgot to mention Big John also has a variety of knowledge. All these people do for some reason (ginko biloba?).
The food is excellent (especially the chicken wings) because Chris, the chef (not cook, but C-H-E-F) was the head chef in a famous sushi restaurant for many years. Chris is very creative and meticulous with his food (perhaps anal), and I guarantee you will enjoy it. The portions are small but it is a jazz bar, not a Hooters or country buffet.
The owner is a very nice guy and also a very talented musician himself. Just don't be too loud when there is a performance. The decor is very cool and jazzy.
If you don't enjoy yourself you need to get off the crackpipe and drink a few gallons of green tea and come back. You won't find another place like it anywhere. They just have to fix some typos in the ceiling (if anyone even bothers reading the ceiling). -
Review from Jin N.
Los Angeles, CA
5/25/2010 5 photos
I've been to the Blue Whale a couple times just to listen to some good music and hide out after work. But my most recent visit compels me to post a review. I would probably give Blue Whale a 3.5 or a 4 star but I was treated well on my last visit with friends. I credit Jamie and Mitch for providing a fantastic night.
But as I shared, I've come before to listen to music. Good music. Always a different vibe or style when I've come. I usually find a feed of new musicians off my friend's FB. When something intrigues me I will check it out. The listening area seems sparse and open. One would expect to see a raised stage, but instead the musicians are standing on the floor. The seating arrangements are square seats without any tables. The minimal seating and staging seems to highlight the room and space, giving focus to the listening and music experience. The focus is on the music, which I respect. I must have been saying something too loudly because the doorman reminded me to keep our chatting voices down.
Cover for Blue Whale is $10. Not too outrageous if you're going anywhere to listen to live music. Fair price.
The bar is tucked away near the entrance. Oddly enough the bar is raised a few steps on its own stage. The bar seemed a little cramp considering the space of the music area. They do have a little area of little seats but that too seemed cramped. Blue Whale does have a full bar but it seemed that their selection of liquor and beer was a little limited. They didn't have some of my favorite whiskeys or gins I preferred in my cocktails. Jamie was sweet enough to offer suitable substitutions for spirits. when those didn't suffice she listened to my preferences and tried to make me a drink that I might enjoy. Very very thoughtful of her.
One of the drink suggestions she offered was their Moscow Mule. Beautiful. Its a muddled lime, mint, meyer lemon and vodka drink with a splash of ginger beer. Think of a light mojito with a ginger twist. The cocktail is served in a metal cup that keeps the drink ice cold. Its the drink to try when you come to the Whale.
As I mentioned before, Jamie and Mitch raised my experience and enjoyment of Blue Whale. I am returning there just because I enjoyed their service. they took care of us with lots of humor and exuberance. they were very entertaining to talk to and engage with. She even introduced us to some of the regulars. LOL. When both bartenders found out it was a birthday celebrations, they both shared a shot with us on separate occasions. I'm not raving because a drink was comped, I'm raving for their enthusiasm for a good time. A good time was shared by everyone in my small group. Big props to Jamie and Mitch. -
Review from Carla B.
6/14/2010
***LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!***
But let's talk about what I hate first! I hate clubs where you can't talk and there's nothing but boom-boom music going on, with lots of uninteresting people with expensive shirts or shoes pretending to be oh-so-crème, when in reality they're frikin' cattle aka plastic retards. I don't mind nice shoes or shirts, but they have to come along with personality and sensible brain usage. That being said, I also hate snobs who think they're extremely above everyone. Be smart, have an identity but keep it real with the world, too.
I didn't interact with anyone other than the host, bartender and lead singer of the jazz group playing there tonight. And about these, this I can say: the singer was not only very much on pitch and friendly to the ear, but very down to Earth and went over to people after they were done playing, and personally thanked them for being there. Very cool, charismatic and unpretentious of her. The host was very informative and a nice guy. Cover charge was $5 each, I guess because we went in late.
The musicians were tight! Clean sound, clean song entrances and exits. ALL excellent, and they did a few progressive tunes that were very interesting. And the cool thing was that people there were silent and respectful towards the band.
And the bartender tooootally won my very choosy martini palate! I asked for a drinks menu, which he provided, and he also very kindly offered to improvise and make anything I wanted. So I asked for a Passion Fruit martini (not on the menu). He came with a delicious, well balanced in fruit and alcohol flavor martini, with a gorgeous strawberries & lime garnish. AMAZING!!! My bf had his usual Maker's Mark on the rocks, generously poured. Bill with tax was $26. It's not your cheapest drink, but as I said, drinks weren't 2 crappy ounces with ice to the top in my bf's case, and in mine, I was soooo happy I got my favorite martini, which isn't common at all, and I loved it. So I tipped over the 15% of course. He also came from behind the bar and brought the drinks himself. That's service, dammit!
There weren't a lot of people, but I was told this was the first Sunday they've been open, and I checked Yelp while I was there and it appeared the place was closed -- obviously it wasn't updated. So I'm guessing that's why there were about 15 people only. And I guess because it's new, too. Oh, and the Lakers game! But indeed, this is a find!
There are also a few Japanese restaurants at the Weller Court where this bar is located. I've had dinner in only one of them -- and it's awesome, too! -- called Curry House. They also have a sushi and a ramen place, among others.
PARKING: THERE IS A MULTILEVEL PARKING LOT AND THE CLUB VALIDATES YOUR PARKING SO YOU PAY NADA. Thumbs up! No meter panic!
Blue Whale is boss. Period.Listed in: All Things California
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Review from John L.
Los Angeles, CA
7/28/2010
After reading the reviews I was very intrigued and decided to check it out this past Saturday. All the 4/5 stars it received from fellow yelpers are pretty spot-on. The people that work there from bouncers to bartenders to the owner, they're all polite and accommodating. The bouncer greeted us and gave us a brief intro of the place. Bartender Mitch concocted some crazy drinks for my date (I drank Johnny Black), and we enjoyed soothing jazz tunes in the lounge area when the show started. The crowd is an older crowd (Mid 30's to mid 40's?) and very respectful during the performance. A good date place.
Peace.
P.S. - as some other yelpers mentioned, I recommend the chairs next to the walls so you can lean against it.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from William M.
Venice, CA
7/17/2011
THE BEST JAZZ CLUB in LA!!! I love this place and HIGHLY recommend the seared ahi sliders!!!! AMAZING!!!
