From the driving, to the parking, to the not knowing where to drive or park, dinner in L.A. is harder than it should be. That’s why we created Dinner Plan — your itinerary to a damn good time.
This week, we head to Hollywood to check out Black Rabbit Rose, a sprawling new haven of magic, jazz and burlesque that draws on huge personalities from Hollywood’s storied past and literally inhabits a former MGM actors’ barracks.
Dinner: Black Rabbit Rose
Hollywood
Tonight, you’re eating some uncomplicated yet very delicious Thai-Chinese food. You’ll probably have noticed that the counter, Crying Tiger, is also open street-side, but inside the menu has elevated versions of drunken noodles, orange chicken and lettuce wraps. It’s fast, very fair priced and goes great with an Angel City IPA or whiskey cocktail. Definitely plan to spend some time in this room before exploring the rest of the venue, as the vibe (equal measures classic rock ‘n’ roll and intimate) is perfect for kickstarting the night. Secure a table in advance.
1719 N. Hudson Ave. (map)
Website
The Magic Show: Black Rabbit Rose
Hollywood
There are only two shows a night, Thursday through Saturday, and we recommend booking the 9:30 p.m. magic show if you want to do dinner beforehand. There’s a performer who will check in and let you know when he’ll escort you back. Like all Houston Hospitality sites, there’s a secret entrance. We don’t want to ruin the surprise, but let’s just say that they did a great job honoring the history of the building while setting the magical mood with a few quick tricks. The hour-long show has elements of Vaudeville and carnival sideshows, with more contemporary bits of prestidigitation, too. Routines will be switched often, and there will be guest performances: Rob Zabrecky performs this weekend.
Drinks: Dirty Laundry
Hollywood
After the show and perhaps a drink in the room where you ate dinner, head down the street and then downstairs to Dirty Laundry, a nearby dancehall in Valentino’s former speakeasy. You’ll be here until the wee hours drinking tequila and gin. Leave the car at home.
1725 N. Hudson Ave. (map)
Website
This article was featured in the InsideHook LA newsletter. Sign up now for more from the Southland.
