http://www.detroitbar.com Dressed up in a mixture of mod and art deco fixtures decor, it's pretty apparent that Detroit Bar is a slice of the Memphis Group pie. The intimate bar/venue not only serves as a must-play venue for all up-and-coming Orange County bands, but also hosts a slew of well-established artists blowing through town. You can experience everything from the likes of Elliott Smith (RIP) to Stereolab at this local hot spot. The crowd is skewed young and hip, but not so much that you feel overwhelmed by snooty scenesters. Drinks are strong and the best of rock, indie rock, soul and more are played nightly by impeccable DJs. Hip-hop/dance and karaoke nights are also quite popular. Whether you're visiting for the bands, drinks, pool table or consistently awesome music, Detroit's laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the best hangouts in Orange County. More >>
5205 E. Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, CA 90804
562-498-2461
http://www.dipiazzas.com They offer a huge menu selection, including American dishes; you'll want to try the enticing fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, shrimp and pastas. The chicken Parmigiana melt sandwich and the calamari steak will create lasting memories in your stomach. Plus, they sell Fernet Branca, which will cure your cholera. More >>
6801 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-308-6300
http://www.dolbytheatre.com This "crown jewel" of the Hollywood & Highland complex is best known as the home of the Academy Awards, but the 3,332-seat theater is also the site of many other awards shows, pop concerts, theatrical productions and dance events. Prince, the Dixie Chicks, Barry Manilow, Alicia Keys, John Fogerty and Stevie Wonder are among the musicians who've played at the Hollywood Boulevard theater. Designed by the Rockwell Group and opened in 2001, the lavish theater features a five-level lobby, a spiral staircase and dome. Originally known as Kodak Theatre, the place was renamed Dolby Theatre in 2012. More >>
6510 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90038
323-466-6111
http://www.thedragonfly.com This longtime Hollywood bar has always been a rock & roll mainstay, but it also hosts frequent comedy and theatrical revues, including the ongoing "Point Break Live," a comedic parody of the old Keanu Reeves film. Other entertainment ranges from drum-&-bass nights, jello wrestling and "Rebel Fucking Bingo" to burlesque and "Natalie Fabia's Hooker Pageant." The Buzzcocks, the Spazmatics and Abby Travis are among the many performers who've appeared on the Dragonfly's stage. A large painting of a temptress with large dragonfly wings dominates the backdrop of the stage and serves as the club's logo, while a long wooden bar runs along one side of the room. Large mirrors on the walls give the club a sense of Tinseltown elegance and opens up the dark space. In total, the Dragonfly has four full bars operating, especially on busy weekend nights. There's also a brick-walled back patio for those looking for a breath of fresh air and a rare glimpse of a different kind of Hollywood stars. Full bar. Ages 21 & up. More >>
2915 Red Hill Ave. Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714-957-1951
http://www.durtynellysoc.com Better known as a house of karaoke, a place to catch Premier League matches and a bar than an Irish pub, Durty Nelly's is worth the drive for its greasy, crunchy grilled cheese. It's also a great place for the many office drones who work nearby. More >>