Slowly but surely, West Hollywood is becoming L.A.’s hangout for the hip and trendy.
The famous NYC bar-restaurant Employees Only is moving into the space once occupied by Baby Blues BBQ.
EO originally opened in 2004 in New York City’s Greenwich Village and became known as one of the “originators of the craft cocktail movement.” The term refers to the practice of a bartender customizing a drink as she mixes it and proceeding to taste it before serving, as to ensure that it’s made perfectly. Employees Only became the hangout for other bartenders and eventually earned a spot among the world’s 50 best bars list in 2017!
Midnight Hospitality’s EO offers room for dinner, drinks, and semi-private partying in the back. Though co-founder Dushan Zaric (also considered to be one of the best bartenders in the world) will be manning down the bars – chef Sascha Lyon is in charge of all things relating to the kitchen. Lyon’s menu focuses on some of the classics like bone marrow poppers and steak tartare in addition to a variety of California-fresh veggies and seafood. In the drink department, Zaric serves original Employees Only drinks for $16 a pop as well as new few cocktails created specifically for Angelenos.
You can expect decor that references the art deco elements of the original location, like a hidden entrance where you can receive a 15-minute live psychic reading for $25. In the attached Henry’s Room, there is plenty of space for private parties, New Orleans-inspired drinks, as well as an occasional unique yet personal cocktail experience with Zaric presiding over a wide bartender’s table in front of a crackling fireplace!
7953 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046. See it on Google maps.