About Akbar
Akbar is a long-running queer-friendly dive bar and nightclub tucked in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles. It opened on New Year’s Eve 1996, when friends Scott Craig and Peter Alexander converted the former “Jolie’s II” piano lounge into a rock‐and‐punk themed bar (laist.com ). The name was chosen to feature the word “bar” and start with “A” – in fact it’s a nod to Matt Groening’s comic characters Akbar & Jeff from *Life in Hell* (laist.com ). From day one the owners stocked a custom analog jukebox with punk/rock tracks and kept the old bar stools, giving Akbar a gritty Moroccan‐lounge vibe (one magazine famously called it a “cheesy Moroccan airport lounge” (laist.com )). In recent years, after 27 years under Craig and Alexander, Akbar was sold to longtime managers Albert Loya and David LeBarron (who actually saved the bar during the pandemic) in order to preserve its legacy (akbarsilverlake.com ).
Akbar’s character is very much “community first, everyone welcome.” It has been described as “a creative, alternative space for queer and queer allies” where “people come] together to enjoy a strong drink and a great jukebox” ([akbarsilverlake.com ). The bar has kept to its roots as a casual neighborhood oasis – it still sells very inexpensive, strong drinks and maintains a divey, unpretentious atmosphere (laist.com ) (akbarsilverlake.com ). As one local article put it, Akbar “has remained true to its roots, selling cheap, basic drinks and offering a casual space for people from any walk of life to unwind” (laist.com ). Its motto back in the day was literally “We’re not a gay bar, we’re not a straight bar, we’re a great bar” (laist.com ), reflecting how it welcomes both the LGBTQ+ community and straight allies alike. Inside, you’ll still see the original mural‐style portraits (a nude man and woman) and the same large analog jukebox the founders installed (laist.com ). Overall, Akbar matters because it’s a historic Silver Lake landmark – a nightlife refuge born out of the 1990s club scene that has quietly nurtured LA’s queer and arts community ever since (akbarsilverlake.com ) (laist.com ).
Events and Programming
Akbar’s calendar is packed with unique weekly and monthly theme nights, plus the occasional live concert. There really is “something going on every day.” The venue’s in-house DJs and resident performers spin everything from underground house and disco to old-school rock and emo. For example, *Planet Queer* – an experimental LGBTQ performance cabaret – happens on the 3rd Monday of each month (wehoonline.com ). *Drunk on Stage* is a free stand-up comedy showcase typically on Tuesdays, hosted by Bruce Daniels. *House/Disco’s Revenge* nights (DJ Faulkner) and *Funk That!* nights (DJ Marcel) add vintage disco/house to the mix, while occasional alt theme nights (like 80’s wave, 90’s non-stop hits or a Cure tribute “Night of a 1000 Robert Smiths”) keep things fresh. Sundays often feature *Soundtrack Sunday*, a drag lip-sync revue hosted by drag legend Love Connie. First Thursdays bring the LA Gayming Society’s monthly video gaming night, and *Learn the Words, Bitch!* is a lip-sync contest run by Tony Soto on the first Monday. Bingo and craft-karaoke nights (hosted by Akbar bartender JP) and even Bear-friendly happy-hour gatherings have been regulars in recent years.
In summer months the back patio becomes a party spot: the famous *Bears in Space* lot party is held outdoors behind the bar. (This all-day “cosmic bear beats” festival – started in 2009 – draws big-name DJs like DJ Harvey, Lovefingers, Heidi Lawden and others, plus food trucks and drag performances (www.insomniac.com ).) Akbar’s been known to throw free holiday blowouts too, with no-cover Halloween contests and New Year’s Eve bashes that locals look forward to. Beyond the themed nights, Akbar occasionally hosts touring acts and musicians on its small stage – for example in recent years the bar has seen one-night concerts (Bright Light Bright Light in Nov 2022, Justin Reinhold in Aug 2023, etc.). In short, Akbar’s programming is wide-ranging: its own DJs and performers run weekly dance parties or cabaret nights, and special events and one-off concerts pop up regularly, usually with very modest cover charges or free entry for neighborhood shows.
Tickets and Booking
Most nights at Akbar do not require advance tickets – entry is first-come, first-served. For regular weekly events (comedy shows, DJ nights, drag shows, game nights, etc.) you can simply show up at the door. In many cases there’s no formal cover charge or it’s a few dollars ($5–$10) collected at the door. Stickers and flyers around town may advertise any higher-profile acts or special dance parties. If a well-known performer is booked, promoters might sell tickets online or via local box offices, but even then the venue is small (usually a standing-room show), so rush tickets or door sales are common. Clark’s tip is to keep an eye on Akbar’s social media or local LGBTQ+ event listings. When a big event is announced, tickets (if any) often go on sale a few weeks in advance; otherwise plan to arrive early on busy nights and pay the cover at the club. Akbar does not have a hotel-style box office, so all ticketing is done at the door or through third-party event pages. In general, pricing is very reasonable: most nights are free or include a cover under $20, and specialty dance events usually top out in the mid-$20s if ticketed.
Seating and Layout
Akbar is an intimate two-room bar without fixed seating – think of it mainly as a standing-room club. The entrance leads into a small front lounge area with the main bar on one side and a few bar stools and tall cocktail tables dispersed around it. A long row of vintage bar stools lines the front bar, so you can pull up for a drink. Beyond the lounge is the main dance floor. There’s no tiered seating or formal stage – the DJ booth and performance area are at the back of the club, so most of the space is wide open for dancing. On peak nights the crowd fills the entire floor, and people stand or dance wherever they can. If you want space to talk, the quieter choice is usually along the side or back wall; if you want to be on the dance floor, gather toward the center or front of that rear room. There are no assigned seats or VIP sections – everything is general admission. (Occasionally special tables with bottle service are set up for private parties, but these are rare and not sold to the general public.)
Acoustically, Akbar is a short, boxy space so the music can get very loud. Guests often say it feels like a classic dive bar turned club. There are hanging speakers and subwoofers pointed at the dance floor, so near the DJ booth will be the loudest spot. The front lounge is a bit quieter by comparison, though still pulsating with the bass. If you’re sensitive to sound, standing farther from the speakers or by the doorway to the patio can help. Otherwise, this bare-bones layout means nearly everyone has a good line-of-sight to the DJ or performers – there are no tall balconies or obstructed views. In short, the “best seats” depend on your preference: front lounge tables for conversation, mid-bar for barstool seating, or right up on the dance floor for a full club experience. Guests simply claim a spot as they enter. Note that on very busy nights (like holidays or major DJ events) the club may reach capacity quickly, so arriving early ensures the best range of standing or seating options.
Getting There and Parking
Akbar is located at 4356 W Sunset Boulevard in Silver Lake (corner of Sunset Blvd and Fountain Ave, one block east of Ivanhoe) (www.ticketweb.com ). It’s about 2 miles east of Hollywood and 1.5 miles west of Downtown Silver Lake. By car, take Sunset Blvd. West of Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios, you’ll pass Hyndland Ave and then Fountain Ave – the bar is on your left just after Fountain. There is a very small private parking lot directly behind the building (accessible from Fountain or Hoover Ave), but spaces are extremely limited and often reserved for staff or event setup. Street parking on Sunset and the neighboring side streets is available, but meters apply on Sunset during daytime hours. (On evenings, many street meters become free/disabled, but always check the signs.) Because Silver Lake parking can be tricky—especially on weekend nights—many locals advise using Lyft/Uber or other ride services. Yelp reviewers even note that “rideshare, public transit and carpooling is all your friend” in the Sunset/Fountain area (www.yelp.com ).
If you’re taking public transit, Akbar is reasonably accessible by bus. Metro Local Bus lines #2 and #4 run east-west along Sunset Boulevard near the bar, and Line 182 (running on Sunset-west/ V/Central-east) also stops at Sunset & Fountain (moovitapp.com ). (The Metro Red or Purple Line subway doesn’t go closer, so you’d transfer to a bus at Hollywood/Vine or Pershing Square to get here.) LADOT DASH Silver Lake crosstown buses also serve stops just a few blocks from Akbar. The Fountain/Sunset intersection (around Akbar) is a fairly major bus hub in Silver Lake. For drivers, keep in mind that the bar is at the corner of Sunset & Fountain – a very busy intersection – so plan your approach accordingly. If you’re coming from Hollywood, Sunset Blvd eastbound will bring you right there; from Downtown LA, you’d head west on Sunset.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, you’ll enter through the front door into the bar area. On busy nights a line may form outside, so expect a brief ID check (21+ only for bar entry) and possibly a quick security pat-down. Once inside, you’ll immediately see the long wood bar and jukebox; the setup is very casual. There’s no formal ticket scanning kiosk – it’s either wristband or cash cover at the door on show nights. The interior lighting is dimmed club style with colorful spotlights over the dance floor and neon signs around the bar. In terms of décor, look for the two massive red paintings of nude figures hanging opposite the bar – they’re a signature piece of Akbar’s quirky style. The club is usually _very_ warm and filled with people on dance nights, so casual, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. (You will see people wearing everything from jeans and tees to dressing up in costume on theme nights.)
Akbar’s bartenders pride themselves on creative cocktails and strong pours. There is no kitchen food service, so don’t expect a menu of hot meals – the bar offers bottled beers, wine, and a full cocktail list. One Yelp reviewer specifically highlights Akbar’s canned margarita cocktails, noting “Hella Habanero” as a favorite (www.yelp.com ). You’ll find signature drinks named after local lore or house-mix cocktails among the drink list. Prices are very reasonable for LA; happy hour specials are standard (more below). There’s also a coin-operated jukebox near the entrance if you want to play a song – it’s the same old jukebox the owners installed in the ’90s (laist.com ), stocked with rock, punk and some classic dance hits. A few high-top tables and stools around the periphery can accommodate small groups, but most people stand or dance.
Restroom facilities are located inside: one set of bathrooms (men’s and women’s) is near the exit to the outdoor patio at the back, and another is near the central lounge area (www.yelp.com ). Customers note that both pairs of restrooms are generally clean and have running water (and hand soap). There is no formal coat check or locker service, so if you have a jacket or valuables, you’ll carry them with you or hang them in the bar area. Cell phone reception is decent indoors, but if you need connectivity to check rideshares or messages, the front-door area (near the official exit to the patio) often has a slightly better signal.
Nearby Amenities
Silver Lake is known for its indie food scene, so you won’t have to go far for a bite. Across the parking lot from Akbar (visible from the patio) is a McDonald’s if you need a quick snack at any hour. On the same block of Sunset to the east, there’s a cluster of casual eateries: Garage Pizza (pizzeria open late), My Vegan Gold (Vegan Thai casual spot), and Bulan Thai Vegetarian Kitchen (a popular vegetarian Thai bistro happened to be nearby) (www.yelp.com ). A walk of one block north or south takes you to coffee shops, ethnic cafes, and trendy cocktail lounges if you want to keep the night going. (For example, Sunset Junction shops and gourmet markets are just a few minutes up Sunset Blvd.)
Hotels and lodging in Silver Lake itself are very limited since it’s mostly residential. The closest budget option noted by travelers is the Comfort Inn (formerly Comfort Inn & Suites) on Sunset a bit west of Akbar; online guides even rate it as a “solid, basic 2-star” in the area (www.tripadvisor.com ). Most visitors choose to stay in neighboring districts: Hollywood or Downtown (around the Roosevelt or Marriott in Hollywood, 3–4 miles west) or DTLA/Koreatown areas for more upscale hotels. Since Akbar tends to run late into the night, many fans simply find rideshares back to hotels rather than walk.
If you arrive early on the night of a show or event, consider grabbing dinner or drinks at a nearby bar first. KS recommended spots within a short walk include Talent Coffee Coast (coffee and light eats) or Verdugo Bar further east (dive bar with cheap shots). Remember Silver Lake can be busy after 9 PM, so plan to arrive at Akbar 30–60 minutes before showtime if you want a good position on the dance floor or seating. After closing (2:00 AM), the same Sunset Blvd strip has a few 24-hour food trucks or late-night eateries in the nearby neighborhood. In general, though, the simplest late-night exit is to use Uber/Lyft; the rideshare pickup point is right in front of the main door on Sunset.
What Makes This Venue Special
Akbar stands out because it’s far more than “just another gay bar” – it’s a true neighborhood icon. It embodies the gritty, inclusive spirit of Silver Lake. As long-time owner Peter Alexander put it, despite changing times the bar never lost its original ethos: Rupert Alexander has observed that “the bar has remained true to its roots” (laist.com ). The jukebox still roars with indie and punk rock (owners proudly banned top-40 divas like Madonna for years (laist.com )), so it offers an alternative nightlife vibe in a city filled with disco and dubstep clubs. Many reviewers and local media call it a “neighborhood oasis” or “watering hole” for exactly this reason (akbarsilverlake.com ) (akbarsilverlake.com ).
Historically, Akbar really matters to the city’s LGBT culture. Silver Lake was once a nexus for L.A.’s gay community (the Black Cat Tavern protest in 1967 took place a few blocks away), and Akbar carried that torch into the 21st century. Its 27-year run makes it one of Los Angeles’ oldest still-operating gay bars. In 2016 LAist went so far as to call it “Silver Lake’s gay bar for everyone” (laist.com ). Inside Akbar you’ll often find tragic old-timers reminiscing at happy hour alongside hipsters and straight allies dancing late into the night. This cross-generational camaraderie is part of its charm. It’s also literally been blessed by LGBTQ leaders: when signs around Silver Lake warning off gay men were removed in 2023, Akbar’s owners were part of the celebration (akbarsilverlake.com ).
Architecturally and artists-wise, Akbar is a bit of a time capsule. It stubbornly remains a divey, low-rent dive in a now-gentrified area. The interior still has those red paint and hand-painted tables from 1996, despite passing trends. The very same analog jukebox from opening night still “hulks” in the bar (laist.com ). Those original high-backed bar stools (some even pre-date the bar!) are still bolted to the floor (laist.com ). In 2003 L.A. Magazine actually named it the best gay bar to take a straight friend, coining the “great bar” slogan (laist.com ). Even on a pop-culture level, Akbar’s celebrity moments add to its lore: signed photos of performers (k.d. lang, Michael Stipe, Elliot Smith, Minnie Driver and more) line the wall, tying the bar to L.A.’s music history. All these details – the funky decor, the political legacy, the quirky party events – give Akbar a personality that both locals and artists love. As one Yelp reviewer sums up: it’s a place with “welcoming energy” and strong tunes, a “magical” Silver Lake sanctuary for LGBTQ people and friends (www.yelp.com ). In short, Akbar isn’t trendy or shiny, but it’s genuine – a living piece of Silver Lake lore.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and Policies: Akbar is a fully licensed bar, so the legal drinking age is 21+. You should bring a valid ID (driver’s license or passport) to get in. No children or minors are allowed at night. The club has a “no outside alcohol” policy – staff will politely check and you must finish or dispose of any drinks you brought. Cameras and phones are allowed for casual photos, but avoid professional cameras or video unless it’s a scheduled show (photography without permission is discouraged). There is no formal dress code, but the crowd is usually casual clubwear: expect jeans, T-shirts, leather or drag if it’s a theme night. Costumes are common on Halloween and special events, but otherwise anything neat and comfortable that lets you dance is fine.
Cover and Tickets: On most nights there is no advance ticket; you pay a cover at the door if there is one. Frequently there’s no charge at all (especially on weekdays or comedy nights). For those nights when entry fee applies, it’s typically trimmed to a cover of around $5–10. Keep a few dollars in cash just in case – smaller events often operate cash-only, though the bar itself takes cards for drinks. If a very popular DJ or performer is listed, consider arriving early or checking if any online ticket presale exists. Otherwise, treat Akbar like a casual bar – come early if you want to snag a front spot on the dance floor.
Hours: Akbar is open every evening, Monday through Sunday. Door opens at 4:00 PM daily (www.yelp.com ) for early happy hour, and stays open until 2:00 AM (25 hours after midnight). Shows or DJ sets often start after 9:00 PM, but arriving around 7–8 PM is common if you want a drink and room to sit before the dance floor fills up. If you’re planning to arrive late (say, after midnight), be aware that weekends especially can get a wait – the line sometimes backs up outside on big nights. If you see a line, a tip is to grab a drink at a nearby bar first or get in line early, since admission is first-come. On weekends and holiday nights (New Year’s Eve, etc.), arriving an hour or more before showtime can save you standing in line. Also note that on Sunday mornings the club clears out around 2 AM, and the neighborhood businesses (like McDonald’s or food trucks) start closing then.
Getting There: If you’re driving, use your GPS to navigate to “4356 W Sunset Blvd.” or look for the sign just past the northeast corner of Sunset & Fountain. Because the area is busy, the easiest drop-off or pick-up point for ride-hail (e.g. Uber/Lyft) is right in front of the bar on Sunset. Major bus lines that stop within a block are Metro #2 and #4 (running along Sunset) (moovitapp.com ). If you prefer rail, the closest Metro Red or Purple Line stations are in Hollywood; you’d transfer to a bus downtown to reach Silver Lake. Once you’re in the area, restrooms are on either side of the bar (near the outdoor patio exit and by the lounge) (www.yelp.com ). Note that the corner of Sunset & Fountain is well-lit, but Silver Lake is still a city neighborhood – use caution if walking around alone late at night.
Accessibility: The main entrance is a step up from the sidewalk, but there is a narrow ramp by the door to accommodate wheelchairs. The key party area and restroom near the patio are on the same level, so in practice it’s mostly wheelchair-accessible. (However, the bar stools and tight crowds can make navigation tricky; you may want to arrive early to find space.) There is no elevator – everything is ground-level. If you use a wheelchair or scooter, you can generally access the bulk of the venue. It’s recommended to call ahead if you need any special assistance, though locals say staff are usually quite helpful. Service animals are allowed inside, but any pets beyond that should stay home by law.
Money and Connectivity: Akbar accepts credit cards for drinks and tabs, and there are ATMs in the immediate neighborhood (a Wells Fargo ATM is a block away). Tipping is appreciated but not automated, so customer will carry a few dollars for the bartender. There’s no public Wi-Fi specifically for patrons, so plan to use your phone’s data plan; the bar can get a little spotty, but cell signal is generally okay in the central lounge. Outlets are few, so bring a portable charger if you’ll need it. For orders, the bartenders use a typical paper/order setup – there’s no app or anything. You can call tabs by name or card when you leave.
Other Tips: Check the door rules: bags larger than a small purse are discouraged (no backpacks or large suitcases), and weapons of course are forbidden. Smoking is not allowed indoors (LA law) – there’s a small outdoor smoking area by the back patio. If you plan to dance, wear sturdy shoes because the floor is bare concrete. Seasonal tip: in summer, try to spend early evening outside on the patio to enjoy the breeze – it’s one of the hidden charms of Akbar (and is where the Bears parties happen). Late-night tip: the street parking meters typically stop charging around 10 PM, so free parking opens up. And don’t forget – Friday and Saturday nights can get very crowded, so coming before 10 PM on weekends will help avoid lines. Finally, one TripAdvisor user puts it perfectly: “Put on your dancing booties and get ready to party,” but also warns “they pour strong drinks, so take it easy” (www.tripadvisor.in ). Follow the crowd’s lead on any coat or seating areas to snag a spot, and enjoy the famously friendly, down-to-earth energy that makes Akbar Silver Lake’s unique neighborhood dance haven.
Are reservation or advance tickets required to enter Akbar?
No advance reservations are needed for most events at Akbar. It's a first-come, first-served bar. For regular DJ nights, comedy shows, and drag events, you usually just show up at the door. Some special concerts or ticketed events may offer online tickets ahead of time, but in general most nights have a simple door cover charge. On many evenings (especially weekdays), entry is free or a small cover (often $5–10) paid at the door. If a popular act is announced, you can check local event listings or Akbar’s social media to buy tickets in advance, but for routine club nights it’s walk-in only.
What is the cover charge or ticket price at Akbar?
Cover charges at Akbar are generally very modest. Many nights are FREE to enter (especially early in the week or ordinary DJ nights). When a cover is charged, it tends to be in the range of about $5–10. Feb Specifically ticketed concerts or high-demand events might run $15–25, but those are rare. In practice, plan for a small cover on weekends or special parties. Locals note that even on busy nights the cover is rarely more than a few dollars. If you want to guarantee entry or a good spot on a big event, arrive early, but otherwise you can expect very affordable admission.
Is there a dress code at Akbar?
Akbar does not enforce a strict dress code. Guests typically wear casual club attire. You’ll see everything from jeans and T-shirts to more flamboyant club or leather gear on theme nights. Costumes are common on Halloween or special parties, but on a normal night just wear something comfortable for dancing and socializing. Smart casual outfits are fine. The main advice is: dress to feel good for the scene – if you plan to dance, choose breathable fabrics and sturdy shoes. Avoid overly formal clothes (Akbar is a dive bar after all) but otherwise come as you are.
Are LGBTQ+ allies and straight guests welcome at Akbar?
Yes – Akbar has always marketed itself as “a great bar” for everyone, not just gay patrons (laist.com ). In practice, that means all are welcome. The crowd is a mix of LGBTQ people and straight allies, especially on weekend nights. The owners’ motto is “Not a gay bar, not a straight bar, a great bar,” and many reviews explicitly note the mix of gay and straight patrons enjoying the music and dance floor (www.tripadvisor.in ). As one TripAdvisor reviewer put it, it’s a place for “any gay or gay-friendly person” to have fun (www.tripadvisor.in ). So you will not feel out of place – as long as you’re respectful and here to enjoy the party, you’ll fit right in.
Is Akbar wheelchair accessible?
Akbar is mostly on one level and can accommodate wheelchairs in basic form. The main entrance has a small ramp next to the front steps, allowing wheelchair access into the bar area. The dance floor and one set of restrooms (by the patio) are on the same level, so most of the space can be reached. However, it is a small, crowded club – navigating through dancers can be challenging. There is no elevator (the building is only ground floor). Service animals are permitted. If you need assistance or a guaranteed spot, it’s best to arrive early and speak with staff. In general, expect a friendly atmosphere but limited ADA-specific accommodations beyond that entry ramp and ground-floor layout.
Can I bring food or drinks into Akbar?
No outside food or alcohol is allowed inside Akbar. The venue provides a full bar (cocktails, beer, wine, mixers) and does not sell any food. If you bring in your own drink it will be confiscated at the door. Akbar doesn’t have a kitchen, so if you’re hungry you’ll need to eat before or after going, using the nearby restaurants. Snacks like chips or small bar bites are occasionally available from vendors during big events (like Bears in Space parties), but normally all drinks must be purchased from the bar. Bringing non-alcoholic refreshments is also discouraged. Plan to buy your drinks at the bar or enjoy food in the neighborhood before entering.
Are cameras or video recording allowed inside Akbar?
Personal cameras and phone photography are generally okay – many people take photos or film short clips for social media. Tripods or professional video gear, however, typically require permission (such gear is not usually permitted without prior arrangement). Flash photography isn’t prohibited, but nightclub lighting makes it tricky. In general, if you’re simply capturing memories or live dancing friends on your phone, that’s fine. Just be courteous: don’t block the dance floor or shine lights at performers. If you’re planning to film professionally, you should clear it with management first. Otherwise, feel free to snap away carefully.
Does Akbar have ATM/cash-only policies?
Akbar’s bar accepts credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) for drink tabs, so you don’t strictly need cash. However, since it's a dive bar, it’s wise to carry a bit of cash for incidentals like covers or tip jars. There is a Bank of America ATM a block away (Sunset near Silver Lake Park) and others in the neighborhood if needed. Cover sales or smaller events may prefer cash at the door. Overall, you’ll be fine with card, but it’s handy to have $20–$40 cash just in case (especially on a busy night).
Do I need to arrive early to get in or get a seat?
If you have a specific night in mind, plan to arrive early. The doors open at 4:00 PM daily (for bar hours), but most DJs and shows begin around 8–9 PM. On Fridays, Saturdays or holidays, crowds often build up by 10 PM. For popular events, getting there 30–60 minutes before showtime is recommended – otherwise you may wait in line or be stuck in the back of the club. Weeknights are less hectic, so arriving just before the event starts is fine. Keep in mind that there is no reserved seating, so arriving early is the only way to claim a good spot on the floor or snag a front barstool. One TripAdvisor tip even advises to “put on your dancing booties and get ready to party,” but reminds guests “they pour strong drinks, so take it easy” (www.tripadvisor.in ) – in other words, pace yourself and allow extra time for those powerful cocktails!
What are Akbar’s hours of operation?
Akbar is open nightly from 4:00 PM until 2:00 AM (technically, 2 AM the next day) (www.yelp.com ). It operates these hours seven days a week (including weekends). Happy hour typically runs early (roughly 4–7 PM), and the dance floor fills up by late evening. The cover charge (if any) is applied only after 9 PM or so. In practice, plan around a 4 PM opening for drinks and a 9–10 PM start time for shows/parties. By 1:00–2:00 AM the last call hits and the club closes down.
How busy do weekends at Akbar get, and which nights are heaviest?
Weekend nights (Friday and Saturday) are definitely the busiest at Akbar: you’ll find the largest crowds on the dance floor and lines outside later in the evening. Thursday nights can also be busy, thanks to themed parties and the nearby Sunset Junction crowd. Weekdays (Sunday through Wednesday) tend to be more laid-back and less crowded. If you want to experience Akbar without extreme crowds, a weeknight is easier – for example, Monday’s lip-sync party or Tuesday’s comedy show are lively but rarely packed to capacity. However, if you love a big party scene and don’t mind the line, Friday/Saturday late nights will deliver that full nightclub energy with multiple DJs and packed dance floor.
