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Medusa Lounge
- Hours:
Thu-Sat 8 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Valet
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
221 reviews for Medusa Lounge
Review Highlights
"Decor: Gothic meets Moroccan."
(in 38 reviews)
"Had a great time here last night."
(in 15 reviews)
"the creepy gnomes on the stained glass windows."
(in 6 reviews)
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221 reviews in English
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Review from Michelle L.
Los Angeles, CA
2/12/2012
Hate the overhyped mainstream electronic music scene? Love bass heavy dark music? Love TECHNO? Well then, Thursdays at Medusa Lounge is the night for you!
This place really is a hidden gem. There's plenty of street parking around the small club or a paid lot right next to it. Cover (especially if you bought tickets beforehand) is dirt cheap and the bouncers are nice. I absolutely love the low lighting, the gothic architecture, and the super dark dance floor in the back. There's also plenty of places to sit at the front of the club and a smoking patio. Droid Behavior (http://www.droidbehavi...) throws Thursday parties here where they bring some of the best techno DJs from Europe to showcase. It's one of the only places in LA where you can hear this type of music and it's AWESOME!
If you're looking to hit on scantily clad girls or stand around to see and be seen, then don't come here. This is not a Hollywoodified, trendy place. Most of the diverse crowd come for the music and although it's mostly male-dominated, I do see girls here who absolutely kill it on the dance floor. When the bass drops, the crowd cheers, the vibe is just great! -
Review from Nicole N.
North Hills, CA
2/6/2012
I was excited to go here based on the reviews and what my friends have said. I planned my birthday party here this past weekend. I called a million times and emailed with no responses.
I went anyway got there early to scope the place out. It was dark and the doors were closed. Funny because on yelp the hours say that the place opens at 8pm on Fridays and I got there at 9. I waited about 35 minutes as my friends began arriving and decided to go somewhere else hoping it would open at 10.
I got calls from friends saying the place was still closed it was 10 45.
Either this place needs to update their hours or announce that they are closed or something because that was an epic failure.
WHOMP!!! -
Review from Lina B.
Los Angeles, CA
10/6/2011
There is only one time a month I come to the Medusa Lounge and that is for a party thrown by a crew called the Steady Crew. It's every 1st Friday of the month and this is what you'll get.
If you love Old School House (rarely any top 40's) and House music, this is your night to go!! You walk in to a dark but awesomely decorated bar that has very interesting decoration. Their are plenty of couches and seats against the walls, a Main Bar that's in the shape of an L and you can't help but to dance to the Old School/Funk that usually is been spun by DJ Stoke. There is two bathrooms (men/women) right before you enter into the main room where you will find a smaller bar and then an open floor that demands your feet to move to the Soultry Funky Jazzy sounds of the House spun by DJ Amara and The Monster on the Drums Mr. Josh Kane from the band Uh Huh Her, if any of you ever watched The L Word and know Leisha Hailey aka Alice, she's one of the singers of this band. There is also another bathroom in this room. Oh, before you go in this room, on your left is a door way to the outside smoking patio. Many times, this group will have featured Artist show casing their art, many times they are creating live art and or caters selling delicious treats like cupcakes, cake pops...etc.
The dress code is pretty casual to whatever you want it to be...dress up if you want but if you wanna get down with the get down, wear comfortable shoes...you've been warned! The people is part of what I love about this night. It's not a straight bar, it's not a gay bar, it's not a bisexual bar...it's a "hey do you like music and no drama" kind of bar...who cares what you are, as long as you come with a positive attitude and want to hear and dance and just laugh...this is the night for you.
Every month, there are special guest DJ's, the most amazing dancers and even entertainment and artists.
The area is not the greatest but hard to find many great areas in LA, let's be real! Plenty of street parking. I had an issue with the Valet, they crashed another car into mine and tried to pretend it didn't happen. Luckily for me, the girl who's car they drove into mine, waited for an hour for me to come out to make sure that I knew what had happened. They denied and lied until after 45 minutes of arguing, talking to their boss on the phone and forcing them to write on the liability form that it was their fault, things were taken care of after. This night was also on my Birthday and it was the first time I said...F'it I'll park here, why not, it's my birthday. My suggestion, find street parking.
Here's a video to give you a quick look at what you'll experience
http://youtu.be/795LuP...
ONLY FOR THE 1ST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH- TOMORROW IS THEIR 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH SPECIAL GUEST INCLUDING NIC NAVARRO AND DEREK DUNBAR
FREE b4 1030p w/RSVP, $5 after, $10 all night NO RSVP
RSVP to STEADYSETGO@GMAIL.COM -
Review from Cliff S.
Long Beach, CA
2/13/2012
It is IMPOSSIBLE to reach someone at this place. No one answers the phone - and I've called during their business hours. They do not reply to e-mails. I've also e-mailed their corporate with no response. I'm trying to make reservations for a large party. GAHHHH.
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Review from Danny r.
North Hollywood, CA
2/2/2012
I went there because a friend of mine was throwing a party. The place is OK but the Bartender was such a jerk(It was some guy with bangs hangin in front of his face kind of emo meets surfer but I still haven't figured myself out look). I don't want to speculate why he skipped me so many times . When the bartender finally decided to attend me ( I had stood there long enough so that there was no way to avoid me) I asked for the manager as I would want to know of this if I was running the joint. He gave me a sh!t eating grin and said "I am the manager". At that point I asked him why he had skipped over me so many times and would not attend me? He then gave me this look like are you going to order or what? I then proceeded to let him know "this was bullshit" and asked him to get me a white russian. He then goes and talks to another bartender and takes his time. At this point I could no longer get mad as I knew the type of ignorant schmuck I was dealing with. I waited till he was almost done pouring my drink and walked away.
I realize that there are stupid insecure people but jeez, don't put them to work with the public when representing your establishment! This guy has some interesting issues, I hope the owners of Medusa read this as I will never go there again. When I go out it is to have a fun time not to be dealing with others issues unless it is a person genuinely in need. The place is nice but the service just left such a bad taste in my mouth that I decided to shake the spot and head to another place with the fellas. The two stars was for the design and decor.
Danrok 1 -
Review from jay c.
12/10/2011
This place is absolutely beautiful inside, the decor is very eclectic and the feel kind of takes you away. The food is not good, le't just be blunt, but for drinks and debauchery you can't go wrong!
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Review from Sasha A.
Los Angeles, CA
9/23/2011
First place in the United States that has very good design. Probably the reason is used to be a german beer pub/restaurant. : )
I went there to a techno party and though the party sort of sucked and there were none of at least somewhat pretty-looking girls (N.O.N.E.) I really loved the place. Fells like a perfect mixture of curious, scary, beautiful and fascinating.
Plus the prices at the bar are not high at all. Really really nice place. -
Review from Mary D.
Los Angeles, CA
1/22/2012
Medusa Lounge is a great venue for music events (I've mostly been for house/techno affairs), although because of it's size seems it can be hard to fill up. Usually a friendly crowd, and the space is set up really great. Big comfy couches, a good-sized dancefloor, and a (small) patio for smoke n toke breaks ;) Location's great, and have never had a problem finding street parking nearby. Come dressed to party, or in jeans and a t-shirt, just come to dance! (Cuz I don't want to dance alone)
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Review from Kelly C.
Fullerton, CA
7/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Such a great time!!! Got there late on Saturday night at about 12:30 but the music was still going strong and there were a bunch of ppl on the dance floor. :) Not too packed and not too dead. The music was "techno-y" and a lot of the songs were mixed really well so a good time was had by all.
-1 star: Kind of a long wait at the bar even though they weren't extremely busy...probably would have been more of an issue to me if I wanted something other than a bottled water.
Lounge was nice and the atmosphere and decorations were really interesting. Loved the over-sized chandelier! -
Review from Mayte D.
North Hollywood, CA
11/18/2011
Ultra cool spot!
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Review from Marilou F.
Walnut, CA
4/18/2011 9 photos
I've been coming here for almost 2 years, partially because my boyfriend (DJ STOKE) and his sister (DJ AMARA) are here the first fridays of every month. But prior to them getting the gig here I've been here plenty of times before and I've seen the changes that other yelpers have reviewed on.
Management has changed, and the current manager is working to provide a more consistent atmosphere throughout the week. I can't speak for any other nights of the month, but I can say that EVERY FIRST FRIDAY of the month is an event to check out.
In the main room, DJ AMARA alongside other guest DJs play house music along with LIVE PERCUSSIONIST Josh Kane.
In the lounge, my boyfriend DJ STOKE plays Old school hip-hop, funk and breaks but is always up for request depending on the crowd.
You can say that I'm bias because I do promote for this venue, but don't knock it till you try it.
http://facebook.com/st... -
Review from Edison D.
Los Angeles, CA
4/19/2011 7 Check-ins Here
I really like this bar/ club! My friends use this spot a lot for their electronic music events... Spacious lounge area with a medieval look... pretty cool! The dance floor is just the right size I think and the sound system sounds sweet! What more could you asked for...
Drink prices are comparable to Hollywood bars... that's the down side, other than that, I always have a good time here!Listed in: Watering holes & meat packing…
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Review from jessica f.
Mission Hills, CA
5/17/2011
I came to the Medusa Lounge on Saturday for a drum n bass show with Diana V, my boyfriend and some other hooligans. It was a 5 dollar entrance fee, I understand it was a show. The bouncers were very nice, respectful and had a sense of humor. (huge plus right away I had a good feeling about this place) So we get in, very dark and dim I loved it. Personally, not a huge fan of lights ESPECIALLY when I've had some alcohol in my system. Very nice decor only problem was the bathrooms, only one toilet!
On to the bar; So usually I'm a mixed drink type of girl but for some reason I was super liking the beer. I had a couple glasses of Blue moon, it was 6 dollars each. A bit pricey but I wont complain because it was totally worth it. The Smoking area was a bit tight but not so tight that you smelled the over done cologne on the semi-hipsters there.
AND the bartenders are very attractive so you go Medusa Lounge! -
Review from Kät A.
12/18/2010
I came across the Medusa Lounge website somehow like 2 years ago. I don't remember how or was lead me here... but I've been enthralled since I set eyes on... well, the website. Ha!
I've just never had the opportunity to pop in to see what's up with this place. Upon conversation with fellow Yelp buddy Bryan W., he mentioned that his friend DJs here for an event called "Killing Spree", spinning goth/death rock/new wave. I was all over it. We got there at about 11pm - immediately cracking mushroom-referenced jokes with the door security.
No cover charge, I like that. No trouble either, ie: searching, bullet belt, ect.
INSIDE - Gargoyles and giant Renaissance door leading in. Antler chandeliers. (faux) Candles, red undertones to the stone and black, dim lighting but definitely enough to see. Cobwebs, just totally spooky. Fantastic visuals, like walking into the Dracula movie. Just my scene. Good vibes too, everyone seems to be getting along and in a good mood. Quick bartenders, moderately priced drinks. I had a pint of Alaskan Ale and Bryan had a Bud Light (poor guy...) : $11. Average, right?
We ventured past the 2 bars and sitting areas to check out the dance floor/DJ area. Very cool. Spacious, but just crowded enough. Another bar in here, how convenient! DJs straight ahead, (considerably clean) restrooms to the left, with security - making sure women are going in the women's and men in the men's (it's dark over thurr).
I found it to be cool that we could be in the room with the DJs and dance floor and still be able to hold a conversation - the music wasn't obnoxiously loud. So another star there for good sound. We ended up on the couches most of the time having philosophical conversations (again, great ambiance for this, great music too! Props to Zane), I just really love the atmosphere at the Medusa Lounge.
I definitely plan on spending more time here!Listed in: Watering Holes
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Review from Vincent K.
Laguna Hills, CA
4/11/2011
I hear Medusa Lounge had changed management soon after I went and now the place wasn't as good. I will have to see for myself but for the sake of the review I will place my comments from a former time. I guess you can consider this post antiquated.
Reserved a booth here for a birthday a couple years ago. Funny, they print out your name and place labels all over the seats everywhere for your designated spot. There were three of those spots this night.
The front door, between two lion statues, is definitely thick enough to be holding a gothic lounge behind it. Kind of like the ones you see in stories from Europe, with those big tavern doors. The security is a plus, those guys are as chill as it gets. The place is stunning when you get inside.
Their menu is like an adventure. They have so many specialty drinks to pick and choose from (pricey - watch out!). Our group tried about everything from their drink menu AND their food menu. All the desserts too! Mostly everything was great - amazing finger food. Be careful of the chocolate cake thing on the dessert menu. That was pretty gross.
They had a new kid bartender there that night which I asked to mix a drink and surprise me of it's contents. He brewed me up a "Liquid Cocaine." Sure kid, thanks.
The music was mostly mainstream. Mainstream always has that charm about it - the kind like you heard that song on the radio and now they're playing it in a dimly lit lounge. By the time the DJ came on the mainstream music was more preferable, to me at least. The dance-floor was kind of a (small) deserted whorehouse. What else can I say?
Overall, fun night. Quite a saucy mysterious place to hang out and lounge. -
Review from Ron M.
Montebello, CA
9/22/2011
This place is aight. Decor is ridiculously off the hook! Beer is priced okay, 6.00 for a beer. Not cheap but not crazy expensive. Seems cool for private events. I would definitely come back. Finding parking on the street is next to impossible, but they do have valet parking for 5.00.
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Review from Kim G.
South Gate, CA
12/12/2010
I was thinking of giving this place a 3 stars, but after thinking about it. Why? Honestly, the place is cool as f*ck, atmosphere the same, but the only thing the music. Hip hop all night long. Its more of a lounge type feel, and yes with a dance floor, they need to mix it up.
Its a full bar with plenty of tap beers on hand. The actual atmosphere and decor is nice. I really loved that aspect of it.
otherwise, well if your not expecting hip hop all night, this is the place. -
Review from Paul M.
10/2/2010
Stunningly beautiful interior, friendly AND helpful security (all too rare in Los Angeles where supercilious grunting seems to be the norm), fast, competent bartenders....
Pretty much the whole package. I went for a special event, so I'm not sure what the place would be like if you just happened to wander in (i.e. I can't speak to the clientèle).
Yes they have valet parking for $5, but I don't think the surrounding neighborhood is as "sketchy" as other reviewers seem to think, so I parked a block away on a side street with no issues.
The DJ was pretty atrocious. Cheesy hip-hop and "crowd pleasing" tunes. I felt like I wandered into a really bad bar mitzvah, circa 2002. -
Review from Phoebe C.
Anaheim, CA
7/28/2010
Medusa Lounge, you are one deceiving mofo... Let me list all the reasons why:
+
Name - enticing, mysterious, provoking
Decor - medieval, slightly gothic, borderline sensuous
-
Drinks - strong, save for sex on the beach :)
Crowd - ugh, don't even get me started... people were dressed in sneakers and t-shirts as if they were going to Disneyland...
DJ - annoying mix between trance and crunk; they don't take requests either
Flatscreen TV screens - are NOT for displaying anime in a freaking nightclub
$$$ - $5 valet, $10 cover charge for a place like this is complete bs
Conclusion: Don't call yourself Medusa Lounge and pretend to be all upscale LA... felt more like a gothic library playing annoying trance music... shoot me nowListed in: Nightlife
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Review from Lana P.
North Hollywood, CA
1/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place has a really cool ambience, cool decor, and a pretty cool crowd... the valet was ok, the drinks were good. My friend asked the bartender to surprise her... and he picked a perfect drink!
My only regret is that I was only there on funk night, when they only played james brown... dont get me wrong, i love james brown.. but I want to hear the music they normally play..
Definitely would go back. -
Review from Lai T.
8/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a really cool place to hang with friends. Low-key and quite spacious! There is even a nice big patio for the smokers.
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Review from Average Foodie O.
Irvine, CA
10/23/2010
Went with a group of friends for a 26th birthday celebration and we were the only people there. the drink prices were very high, paid $94 for 6 tequila shots. You do the math. They also don't serve food due to a loss of their food license. Kinda of made me wonder who the heck is running this place?
To top it off the dj was an a$$hole and wouldn't take a request and I mean completely ignore anyone trying to talk to him, even though our group was the only one in there. We finished our drinks then headed to downtown only 10 min away.
Dont bother with this place in a seedy neighborhood Needless to say we will never go there again. -
Review from Ben F.
Los Angeles, CA
5/26/2010
I'll cut this short.
Important things you need to know:
$5 cover.
$2 valet.
Cheap drinks.
Very lenient dress code.
Restrooms are really shitty.
Slow bartender service- order 2 drinks or more at a time.
Mixed crowd.
Done! -
Review from Jason B.
Alhambra, CA
7/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
10 dollar parking and expensive drinks at a very small club that is completely dead on a saturday night?!?!?! Something is not right!!!
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Review from Lucia D.
Los Angeles, CA
11/28/2010
1. Go to their website (http://www.medusaloung...).
2. Look at the background pictures.
If you like the pictures of the place and want to go for the very experience of seeing the decor in person then the trip is more than well worth it!
--DECOR AND "LA CULTURE" SCENE--
Medussa Lounge in SIlverlake is gorgeous. And a solid display of contrasts:
Example 1: The clientele consists of a solid mix of people from different ethnicities all dressed differently. Some casual...some very "scene" in a Silverlake-indie way. If Medussa was located somewhere like Sunset Blvd. you would expect people to be a bit more dressed up to match the medieval and religiously regal decor. But it's not. It's in Silverlake. So you get a juxtaposition between elite decor and casual consumer. Like a pearl-and-chain necklace. Very cool and very LA in a nutshell.
Example 2: For a place that is decorated with rich wood carvings, stone pillars, crystal chandeliers, it's been a bit neglected. One of the stained glass windows (at waist level) with a friar holding a jug of beer and the inscription "Munich" has a fleck of glass about an inch large broken off. If I were the owner of this gem of a place I would immediately have that little piece replaced or fixed-- as I would fix any ding or blown fuse in a relic car. (Medussa almost HAS a relic-like aura to it).
Example 2 (cont'd): Another example of lack of upkeep: the restroom. Sometime before I went to use the bathroom there had been a bathroom-seat-cover tornado; the floor was covered, some wet, some dry. No toilet paper (expected). It's a place where people drink a lot and are allowed to be careless so my standards are low in that respect. Still, my initial argument here is that Medussa Lounge is so pompous and rich and gorgeous that the restroom is a bit surprising. It's bare, unkept, and has amateur tagging on the ceiling and toilet-seat-cover holder. (I actually liked the aesthetic of the bathroom not matching the place...so I took pictures...).
Please understand I am not complaining, I am merely describing.
---THE VIBE AND THE MUSIC---
We went on Halloween night..
It felt like a high school (or even college) house party instead of a club. (..not a bad thing. Very intimate. Come on... a house party at A REALLY AWESOME house...)
I know it has "lounge" in its name but there really are a lot of people lounging around in the tufted leather looking seating next to gothic stained glass windows and bird taxidermy.
In the back there's a small bare room where the lights are low and people dance. The DJ on the night we went was Killed By Synth (I'm under the impression she's a regular there..but idk).
Now GENERALLY I don't like house/techno/dj music. I've bared with it because all my friends do and a ton of clubs play it... and after while I have slowly grown accustomed to it. Still, it's not my cup of tea.
HOWEVER....Killed By Synth did something pretty interesting with her music. It was house mixed with a touch of mid-90s pop (..like Jocelyn Enriquez's "Do You Miss Me?") and...wait for it...here's the kicker... LATIN MUSIC! -- not Reggaeton, but more Norten~o and Mexican Regional music. Yes, MEXICAN REGIONAL MUSIC.
I was kind of floored----
At first my reaction was "WTF!?!" and within seconds.. "THIS IS BRILLIANT!"
Who THINKS of that?!?!
I guess if you're in the medium you are going to mix stuff that you like or that surrounds you into your work...and since music isn't my medium, I'm always in awe of what people do with it.
I'm sure there are other DJs who do that kind of mixing and other fusions, but holy hell I was shocked it worked so well. For me it was fresh and original. It made for danceable trancey-house music that had random blurps of dancing festivity. I know the description does it no justice. In fact, the description might sound like a turn-off to some people. I'm just trying to convey how pleasantly shocked I was.
--CLOSING RECOMMENDATIONS--
If you're a tourist, you might think Silverlake is sketchy...but even so if you're nearby, check it out. At least stop by to take a LOOK at the interior which is quite an artwork. People-watching approved. The dance-area is not the focus/not the main vibe.. a lot of people hop in and out. -
Review from Randy H.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
11/7/2010
Amazing decor, good music and strong drinks!
We went to the Medusa Lounge on a spur of the moment while on our way to another bar last night. It was a good choice! The bar is located in a neighborhood that you wouldn't expect to find this type of spot in but it wasn't a bad thing; just didn't fit in. Maybe that's what helped make it stand out.
Anyway, the first thing you notice is the decor, a very Gothic style, which as one Yelper put it as "feeling like I'm in a tavern in the mid-evil days". The lighting was dim and set the mood but caused no trouble seeing. There are massive chandeliers and detailed carvings of faces and gargoyle type decorations throughout the lounge with plenty of seating. Somewhat reminds you of something out of an Anne Rice novel.
The music was pretty good; a wide range of song's from 80's to current top 40 and remixes in between but nothing too heavy or industrial. Not the type of music you would expect in a place with this type of motif but it still worked. There is also a halfway separated back room for dancing where the DJ is located.
The bartenders made the drinks very strong which is good but also a little overwhelming if you were expecting it. The prices were about average for LA and the servers were pretty fast. There is $5 cover as well as $5 valet parking but there was also plenty of non-metered street parking when we went so we took advantage of that.
Overall, the Medusa Lounge is a great change of pace from the typical hip hop trendy club scene that is everywhere in So Cal. I'll be sure to come back here soon. -
Review from Avi p.
4/2/2011
Hmmm.. I am still a little confused about this place, as a matter of fact I think the place is filled with a alot of confused people.
Heard about this place from a friend and decided to try it out since the pics on yelp make it look amazing.. Dont judge a book by its cover is right.. Dont get me wrong the place is way cool as far as architecture on the inside, however, after the initial, wow this place is cool looking wares off and then you start to focus on what else is there to offer then it hits you.. What the heck is going on in here.. So this is what i came up with.. The first half of the place is like a regular bar dance floor cool lounge couches and then the second half is a back room no chairs one bar not much of the decor and filled with gays and lesbians dancing there asses off... Now I was stuck somewhere in the middle in the straight room with the dj bumping mostly 90s hits trying to compete against the loud techno beats coming from the back room filled with gays and lesbians dancing there asses off... Eventually the straight room died and i think everybody just went into the gay room..
hmmm.. So dress code is wierd here... you can find tshirt wearing to club attire to what the hell is that.. cover was 7 on a friday night.. Drinks seemed to be around $10.00, door man was the other reviews say pretty cool.. decor very cool, getting inside of the club before getting robbed very iffy, going back to this place probably not.. -
Review from Patty C.
Sun Valley, CA
1/9/2011
I stopped by with a couple friends last nite and the place is gothic, pretty cool I liked the whole setting. The dance floor was a good size , dj was good, and I liked the fact there was a lot of couches..
Medusa got 3 stars only b/c my friend got us on the guestlist so that made me think that the lounge was going to be happening when we got inside it was pretty empty.. We got there at 11.. :( we waited until 12:30 from that point we figured it was a lost cause! All this place needs is more clientele. I had a good time so if u go with a group of friends ur good.
No cover charge
Valet 5.00 good deal -
Review from Kristina R.
West Los Angeles, CA
9/27/2010
My best friend and I decided to celebrate our birthday here one Saturday night in July, having heard about it from some friends and reading some good reviews on Yelp.
I don't know if it was a bad weekend or something, but that night, it was NOT POPPIN'!
Experience wasn't too great even before we got there.. FYI, no one answers the phone at Medusa; so to get in touch with someone, you have to email the address on their website. I emailed earlier in the day to ask about cover charges, and luckily, I received a response saying there would be none for the night. WRONG..!!! When we arrived, all of my friends who I did not come with me had to pay cover! Had I not mentioned the email I sent, I would have had to pay cover also!
Anyway, we walked in, and the atmosphere was very cool and different! Very gothic looking. The bartenders were really friendly and made drinks pretty strong. These two things (the atmosphere and service) may have been the only good things about Medusa though!
The music sucked (techno + some wannabe-house music), and even when we made some requests to the DJ, he totally ignored us. In general.. the place was just EMPTY! There was barely a crowd to fill even a corner of the dance floor!
I still had a good time being with my best friends, but had we chosen another location, I think it would have enhanced our experience. I don't think I will ever go back there again unless someone else I know decides to hold something there. -
Review from Mel G.
San Francisco, CA
7/16/2011
I really liked this place -- my boyfriend and I went here to support a friend's art/music/fashion show, and it was a great time. The venue was just big enough so that the place was packed, but not uncomfortably so. The decor/ambiance is great, and there are sub-rooms to split up multiple events that could be going on at the same time, which also made for a fun experience. Liked it!
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Review from Jenna F.
Torrance, CA
4/25/2010
I had my 25th birthday party here in December 2009 on a saturday night. A friend recommended this place - I was looking for a chill place that's not stressful (as far as lines, cover, dress code) where I can talk, hang out with friends as well as dance!!and some place different
I have to say it really made an awesome bday party experience.
we got a hotel room at hollywood silverlake hotel nearby. We walked to this venue (15 min walk?).
I called them 2-3 weeks in advance about hosting a birthday party and they were very accommodating. it was NO COVER ALL NIGHT for my party of up to 45 people on the guest list? and free tube shots? (almost like jello shots?)
(I was able to put names and +1 which was cool if you don't have their exact name on the list)
I told the rest of my party to get there by 9pm. We were supposed to get there by 9pm-10pm, but we were running late cuz of prepartying (of course). We probably got there at 10:15pmish?10:30pm? but it wasn't a problem. No Line. The doorman/bouncer was cool, bartenders/owner were very nice. they reserved the whole front section for my party. they were really chill with us running late.
crowd- pretty diverse?mixed of ethnicities. for a saturday night, it didn't seem THAT packed/busy
decor/venue
definitely has character, interesting vibe, different from most typical dive bars or hollywood style clubs
dim lighting, dark decor, I believe they took props from movie sets and put it all in this bar? that night it was NOT a goth night..spacious front area for all of my different groups of friends to meet to mix and mingle. the bar is right there in the front..then to the right is a hallway where other people can sit. backroom is room with european statue, DJ, bar as well. played top 40 hits, michael jackson was the highlight..lights? the dancing area wasn't too packed.
it was an intimate place, but not too tiny and not too huge club-like atmosphere. don't have to be super dressed up.
I highly recommend for hosting a party of 30 people =) -
Review from Emeline H.
Oakland, CA
11/12/2010
Genius decor---totally luscious, Gothic, velvety, arty old sculptural fabulous.
Live music lady about to fire up her guitar (darling venue for live music); meanwhile Sirius radio 1990's station was keeping everyone rocking out to the oldies.
Sublime (albeit short and pricey--$12) drinks menu; a win, flavor-wise, for those of us who like the organic, minty, smashed fruit drinks.
Dress code is casual and not trendy.
Parking on the street right outside.
Friendly clientele.
Go after 11pm if you want it to be bumpin'. Go before for a chill lounge feel. -
Review from Cheri G.
North Hollywood, CA
5/12/2009
"I'm gay, I cannot tell a lie." - Quote of the night.
So you know, I could actually completely go on and on about how awesome the bouncer is. Seriously, probably the BEST door experience I've ever had. EVER.
My friend and I showed up for Work It ((http://www.myspace.com...). It's every 2nd and 4th Sunday and a mixed Gay/Lesbian night....Did I mention it's FREE?! My buddy guest Dj's there so I wanted to check it out. My friend and I had no idea what time it started so we took a guess and headed down there. Parking was SUPER easy to find. But then again, we were ungodly early by club standards (10pm). After a joking conversation with the bouncer, we walked inside.
Ok seriously everyone ought to know by now...I'm a huge fan of extremely dark places. For some reason I'm comforted by it. Super Dark + Soft Red Lights = Hookup Lighting as Franky H calls it. Dope.
It was completely empty, so we got drinks. Let me teeeell you. That was perhaps the strongest Jameson/Coke I've ever had. Literally was a tall glass full of Jameson and like a splash of coke (You know your shit is strong when the mixer doesn't even change the color of the liquor).
The place is large. The entire right side of the room is ladden with couches, chairs, tables....I love that because I hate it when you're out and about and you seriously just want to sit and chill and enjoy your drink.
The music kicked off at about midnight, the dance floor in the second room is pretty decent, plus there's a second bar in there so you don't have to stumble all the way back to the entrance area to get a re-fill. On a Sunday night (plus it being Mother's Day) it was a good crowd, but not packed. I ended up running into some girls I knew in typical lesbian fashion (no matter how hard I try to not be involved in the gay scene, it's true. Lesbians really do know everyone). My party of 2 became a party of 5, which made for a super great time. This place not being overtly crowded was awesome because there was never a wait for the one bathroom. And as I was standing in line, met a guy who told me: "Your hair, your piercings...omg I love it. I'm gay, so I cannot tell a lie." Thanks, Shane! -
Review from Joe E.
Los Angeles, CA
5/15/2011
I come here for the killing spree events and the occasional electronic night. I really dig this place. super cool decor and the staff are friendly...great looking crowd.
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Review from anthony g.
Sherman Oaks, CA
3/19/2009
Ah, Silverlake. My old hood.
Walk in, and the place reminds me of that old Ricky Martin video when he's underwater with that mermaid, and there on a date at Disneyland, on a boat, riding through the Pirates of the Caribbean.
So if that doesn't make it obvious, I FU#KN LOVE the way this place is decorated. A lounge inspired by Greek Gods and Demigods, what the hell isn't there to love man!
Appetizers, were tapas sized, but that's it. Bruchetta, honestly, sucked. Calamari was way too fishy, the only thing that was good was the mozzarella fritti, but then again, how do you screw that up?
Drinks were damn good, another place that doesn't have great food, but some really good damn drinks.
Felt a little awkward that night, it was "Brit night." Which means British music, British Fashion, and uh....British Dancing.........!!!!
It was like a Revamped Benny Hill show, but honestly, I kinda dug the dancing. Austin Power style dancing, c'mon, who wouldn't keep lookin and then not get into it???
Place is really well set up, everyone should go AT LEAST once, but follow the bouncers advice, you might want to call ahead to check the theme tha night.
I keep calling looking for "Three's Company Thong Night."
Nope, wasn't my night tonight either :( -
Review from Ishani D.
Beverly Hills, CA
10/25/2010
Came to Medusa Lounge for a friend's b-day...little did the birthday girl and everyone else in our party know that there was a Halloween costume party the same night!! Needless to say....there were some very large women with some very tiny costumes not leaving much to the imagination...as in I was trying to imagine anything but what I was seeing.
Moving on....cover was $5 and valet was $5.
Drinks were average- about $7-10.
Decor is very cool...there's a dance room in the back but the music they were playing didn't really make me wanna shake my groove thang.
Anyways, probably won't be back since I don't live close-by, but a decent bar if you're in the area. -
Review from AJ B.
Venice, CA
10/17/2008
Medusa Lounge is a pretty cool spot to chill. It's got everything: a nice theme, cool decor, atmosphere up the wazoo, cool bartenders, a pretty decent sized dancefloor, and the clientele is not so bad as well. I went here a few weeks ago with a few friends because the girl Y was in town, and I really wanted to show her a good time out.
This place looks gothic, like some Transylvanian castle, shrunk down to human size. OK, so it's not much like Dracula's castle... more like the Count's castle from Sesame Street, but it's still pretty cool. Drink prices are fair and the bouncers are really friendly. Music varies... but it's serviceable.
We had a lot of fun just walking around and talking, catching up and getting to know each other. Cool thing about this place, is when you feel like dancing, you just walk into the dancefloor and there you go!
There is no smoking inside. For that, you have to go outside. It's pretty cool though, there are lots of very interesting people to talk to. In fact, I met R smoking outside and we started talking and she got my number. Since then, she's hooked me up to some cool underground places, so that alone is worth another star, haha. -
Review from Melo M.
Glendale, CA
5/23/2011
Went Th night & they were closed !!!!
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Review from Courtney H.
Los Angeles, CA
8/10/2008
I usually don't like to review places that a ton of other people have already reviewed, but it started to look like I don't go anywhere! Also, just wanted to add to the idea of what this place is like. We came here last night for my friend's 30th birthday party.
It's gorgeous inside. Just amazing... this is how I fantasize about decorating my home. Lots of medieval stained glass windows, animal heads on the wall, tapestries, and velvet upholstery. Marble, carved colums. Just stunning. I wish I would have known about this place when it was still the Lowenbrau Keller!
Anyhow, the doorman took our party to a reserved area (which, if I understood it, was easily arranged about a week before the party) which had couches and tables. Good news for my preggo buddy, who got to relax on a comfy couch with pillows. I didn't eat any food, just had a garlic fry or two.
It was pretty busy in there, and the waiters and bartenders were slammed! They all did a great job nonetheless. I was drinking beer and tequila all night long. The prices were a little on the expensive side for me ($7 for a Stella, $10 for a shot of Patron).
The Womens' bathroom was very clean, but no mirror. While waiting to use said bathroom, I thought there was some sort of orgy going on in the mens' room.... two people would walk in, three others would walk out, two more would walk in. Alas, no suckfest!! Just a lot of guys powdering their noses.
The big drawback for me was the music. It just wasn't my thing... I felt like I was in a Mitsubishi commercial. Pumping, obnoxious "oonch-oonch-oonch" kinda stuff... that in and of itself would have been fine if the music were just kept in the dance area, but it was piped directly down to our table, blaring and annoying. It kinda killed the loungy feeling of the place, and the lush atmosphere, and didn't match the decor or the experience. Everyone in our party felt this way, and so did a bunch of people outside smoking. Minus 2 stars for that.
Overall, I say that this would be a good place to go to for a special occasion, but I wouldn't come here regularly because you know me... I prefer sleazy dives, anyway. Hopefully, they'll do something about the music. But it's gorgeous and the staff is very nice, and the drink prices are not too bad for a "nicer" place. -
Review from Lee L.
7/5/2008
The decor is amazing. It's a little smaller than I imagined from the pictures, but it's absolutely gorgeous in person. It has a sorta gothic vibe, I told my gf that I felt like we were drinking in an old catholic church hahaa. I got past those feelings and had a great time lounging w/ my gf. It wasn't crowded at all for a Friday night, I'm assuming because it was a holiday weekend. There were 2 other groups there. One of the guys was wearing his sunglasses inside LOL I hope this isn't typical of the crowd here.
They have serve appetizers, have a full bar, and a nice list of their specialty martinis.
The lounge is super comfy and the restroom (only 1 female restroom) was spotless, I even took a picture of it. =D
No cover, live dj, and Valet is 5 bucks, but we just parked around the corner in the neighborhood. Would def come back.Listed in: My L.A. Nightlife
