About Catch One
Catch One is a legendary Los Angeles nightclub and concert venue, originally founded in 1973 by Jewel Thais-Williams. It was one of the first major Black-owned LGBTQ+ discos in the U.S. and became a sanctuary for people of color in the gay community . Located at 4067 W. Pico Boulevard in Mid-City (the Arlington Heights/Koreatown area), the building is a 1925‐era Mediterranean Revival structure that once housed the “Diana Ballroom” for big band dances . Renowned for its inclusivity, Jewel’s Catch One welcomed icons like Madonna, Donna Summer, Chaka Khan and more – so much so that it was often called the “Studio 54 of Los Angeles” . Over the decades the club was known not just for party music but for activism; Jewel and her partner Rue Thais-Williams used the space to fundraise and educate around HIV/AIDS, and even hosted the founding meetings of a Black LGBTQ church in 1985 . In brief, Catch One has a storied legacy as a cultural landmark with three bars and three levels of dance floor – a true historic barometer of LA’s gay nightlife .
After Jewel closed the original Catch One in 2015, the venue was sold to entrepreneur Mitch Edelson (of the Los Globos family). It reopened in 2016 under the name “Union Nightclub,” and in 2018 Edelson restored the Catch One name to honor its legacy . Edelson remains committed to keeping it inclusive – as he told L.A. Weekly, he expects to make the club a “living museum” of its history and says “we’ll always be very queer-friendly and very accepting of everybody” . Today the club is part of the Chivalry live-entertainment group, which highlights iconic venues; although modernized, Catch One still carries forward that legacy of diversity and creativity .
Events and Programming
Catch One hosts a huge variety of events and parties nearly every week, from dance music nights to live concerts. There is no single genre – you’ll find everything from hip-hop and R&B to EDM, techno, punk and reggaetón, often all happening in different rooms simultaneously. For example, a recent review noted that the club “hosts all types of live music events – hip hop, dance, EDM, punk, reggaetón (and more)” . Many events are multi-room showcases: on Thanksgiving Eve 2023 the venue ran “Rhondavous: The Ravesgiving” with 18 DJs on stage across 5 rooms and floors, drawing “a few thousand” partygoers . Big-name DJ nights and electronic festivals (like Boiler Room LA in 2022) also call Catch One home, as do notable concerts – for example Grammy-winner James Blake played there in early 2024 and EDM star Zedd headlined a party in December 2023 .
Regular themed and community parties are a hallmark. Los Angeles’s famous A Club Called Rhonda held its huge Pride dance party (“Rhondavous”) at Catch One in June (five stages, ~3,000 attendees) , and annual New Year’s Eve “Subculture” rave events pack the space with hyperpop and electro acts . Even Broadway and themed tribute nights turn up – a TikTok artist brought Tokyo pop covers, and country drag shows (“If I Were A Rodeo”) have been booked. In short, Catch One’s calendar is packed with DJ sets, live bands, drag shows, and dance nights, often with a queer or underground focus. According to concert listings, the club might host around 50–100 events per year (roughly 90 in 2023 alone) , so you’ll usually find something going on. Because of this, fans recommend buying tickets early; high-profile shows often sell out, and the venue’s FAQ notes that only limited advance tickets and door sales are available .
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Catch One events are generally sold online through the venue’s official channels, or at the door if still available. According to the venue’s FAQ, guests can “buy tickets for most events directly on our website” . Major ticketing is handled through their partnered system (the FAQ mentions online sales encouraged), and walk-up sales at the door “if available” are also offered . In practice this means you should buy online well in advance for popular shows – some nights sell out fast. For example, a recent rave night at Catch One was listed at about $20–$40 per ticket , a fairly typical range for dance events. Concerts by headliners or larger productions can go higher, but general club parties often fall in the low-to-mid tens. Door sales are accepted (credit or sometimes cash) but with no guarantee and often limited. Note that all sales are final – the official policy is no refunds once tickets are purchased . In summary: buy online as early as possible through official sources; if you wait for door tickets, arrive early because even if allowed, events often reach capacity.
Seating and Layout
Catch One’s interior is spread over multiple connected rooms, so the experience depends on where you go. The centerpiece is the large “Disco” area: a multi-level dance floor with a DJ stage. (Official specs list the Disco complex at ~1200 capacity , which includes about 800 on the main floor plus the upstairs loft and a small Circle Bar.) On a typical night the main dance floor (sometimes with no fixed seating at all) has the biggest sound system – the venue uses a high-end L-Acoustics line array in the Disco room . Surrounding this are satellite areas: for example, an elevated mezzanine “Loft” overlooking the main floor (capacity ~350) and a small 50-person “Circle Bar” stage-side . Smaller rooms off to the side include the Underground (capacity ~450) and the Jewel’s Room (capacity ~275), each with their own DJ or band stage and Funktion One or D&B speakers . In practice almost every show is general admission – you stand or dance wherever you like – though VIP bottle-service tables can sometimes be reserved in the loft or front area (the venue does sell bottle service on the main floor ). Many visitors describe Catch One as a maze: comedian Joel Kim Booster quips it “really does feel like the Hogwarts Castle…you wander down a random staircase and find a different DJ” on each floor . The net effect is lots of space to dance and explore; one reviewer even notes that seating is very minimal and the focus is on the dancefloor . Acoustically the system is powerful everywhere, so both front-row and side areas will have strong sound (bringing earplugs is not uncommon for sensitive ears).
Getting There and Parking
Catch One is at 4067 W. Pico Boulevard in Central Los Angeles (midway between Crenshaw and Western avenues) . It’s a few blocks south of Wilshire Blvd and very close to Country Club Park. By car, the venue provides a parking lot immediately adjacent to the building . However, space is limited and many visitors warn that evening parking can be difficult – one reviewer called it “the worst [they’ve] ever experienced” . There is some metered street parking nearby but it fills up on busy nights, and some surrounding lots are private. Rideshare drop-offs on Pico (and corner of Norton) are also common ways to arrive. For public transit, Metro buses serve the area: notably Metro Local line 30 runs along Pico and stops at Arlington (just one block west of the club) , and Metro line 33 passes a few blocks north at Venice/Arlington. Neighborhood DASH shuttles and other Metro buses also run on nearby streets, making it fairly reachable by bus. (There is no nearby Metro rail stop; the closest subway is a couple of miles away in Koreatown.) To minimize hassle, many advise carpooling or rideshare for late-night departures, as bus service can be sparse after 2:00 a.m.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively club atmosphere once inside. Security will check IDs and bags: only small purses and personal cameras are allowed . You’ll see multiple bars (and usually long drink lines when busy), but no food service. In fact, staff note there is no kitchen: instead, food trucks often park outside (tacos or burgers) and local vendors like LA Dogs carts may operate late into the night . Drinks are typical club fare – beer, shots and mixed drinks – but don’t expect craft mixology. Rooftable or bottle service can be arranged on busy nights, but otherwise it’s mostly open bar/back walls of shelves. On nice nights an event deck (rooftop patio) is sometimes open for smoking or relaxing (with good views of downtown), but this varies by event. Free WiFi is available (according to local guides ), so you can stay connected, and cell service is usually adequate. Restrooms and coat checks are located off the main dance floors (signs on each level); long queues may form at peak times, so plan accordingly. Overall the club emphasizes dancing and mingling – as one guide put it, people “don’t come to Catch One to sit around on their phones” – so the crowd is usually energetic and friendly.
Nearby Amenities
Koreatown’s dining and nightlife are just out the doors. For dinner before a show you’ll find an abundance of restaurants: Korean barbecue, fried chicken, ramen shops and more are abundant within walking distance along Wilshire and on nearby streets (though none inside Catch One itself). If you miss dinner, many people grab quick bite from a taco truck parked right outside on Pico (on busy nights at least one food cart is almost guaranteed ). For drinks before or after, Koreatown has numerous bars and lounges (ranging from casual lounges to upscale cocktail spots) – one easy option is to stroll the few blocks north to Wilshire, which has a handful of popular lounges (though traffic and parking become a concern on the weekend). For visitors needing a hotel, several have popped up nearby: travel sites list options like the Aventura Hotel and Oxford Palace within a mile of Catch One , and the popular boutique LINE Hotel is just a couple of miles west in Koreatown. If you’re driving, note that many parking restrictions apply on neighborhood streets after 8pm, so allow extra time to find a space or consider using a paid lot. Finally, leave room for late-night transit: both Uber/Lyft and late DASH shuttles or night buses are the safest ways home after the party.
What Makes This Venue Special
Catch One’s character is inseparable from its history and community. Architecturally it’s not a glitzy club – it’s an old building with a glowing “CATCH ONE” neon sign – but that storied past gives it soul. The club has three soaring dance floors and was explicitly founded as a refuge: Jewel once said she chose the name “Catch One” from an old slang about “going out to pick up a guy” – essentially a place “where you could get a date…or more than one” . This irreverent attitude still resonates today. Decades of legendary nights at Jewel’s Catch One (with Whitney Houston, Bette Midler and Elton John among the patrons) have made the site a cultural landmark . After it reopened, the new owners have honored that legacy: they even partnered with the ONE Archives to display historic photos and stories of Jewel’s era. Visitors say the atmosphere feels unique – one called it “a safe haven” and an “upbeat, all-inclusive vibe” for LGBTQ+ folks and allies . Notably, the club has earned official recognition: in 2019 the city dedicated a street corner to Jewel Thais-Williams, and a Netflix documentary on her life (“Jewel’s Catch One”) won awards . All of this history means that going to Catch One is more than a typical dance night – it’s stepping into a living piece of LA nightlife history full of community spirit.
Visitor Tips and Information
Who, What, When: Check your event’s details carefully. Many Catch One nights are 21+ only (though some all-ages LGBTQ events do happen), and most require a valid ID at entry. Doors typically open ~1–2 hours before showtime (often 9:00–10:00pm for concerts or parties on Thurs–Sun), but it varies by event. Arriving early is smart: popular shows can sell out, and early arrival helps get through any lines for tickets or cover. The dress code is casual to trendy – jeans and shoes are fine, but note that open-toed shoes (sandals, flip-flops) are *not* allowed . As one reviewer joked, you won’t see many phones out; attendees arrive ready to dance (so dress comfortably and expect to stand and move around).
What to Bring (and Not): Take only essentials. Small purses or fanny packs are fine (they will be searched on entry ), but large backpacks, bags or camera rigs are prohibited. Technology is okay: smartphone cameras are allowed, but professional cameras require prior approval from the venue . Do *not* bring outside food or drink, or anything that could be used as a weapon (even non-metal sharp objects are banned) . Pepper spray, illicit drugs, and even non-medical masks are not allowed inside. Give yourself plenty of ID, cash or cards (card is accepted at the bar and for tickets ), and keep personal items like hats or coats close (coat check may not always be offered). Also consider ear protection if you’re sensitive – the sound can get very loud, and the speakers in each room don’t take prisoners!
Accessibility: Catch One is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators to all public areas. The club’s FAQ explicitly notes that it provides accommodations for guests with special needs . If you require seating or special access, you can contact the club ahead of time to arrange assistance. Note that, despite an older building, the main levels are reachable and there are ADA-compliant restrooms.
Tips and Do’s: Expect a friendly, open-minded crowd. The club’s roots mean it attracts a diverse mix of people – LGBT and straight, young and old – and most patrons are there to have fun and meet new people. Talking to the bartenders or security staff is common; they can help if you lose your party in the maze of rooms. Water is sold in the bars, and you can refill at water fountains if needed (skipping the lines helps others). If you need a break from melee, use the lounge areas (the upstairs “Apartment” lounge is quieter) or step outside for fresh air. The dancefloor never really empties, so plan on leaving when you’re ready; taxis or rideshares are usually plentiful on Pico. Lastly, be respectful of others – the club’s policy and crowd demand inclusivity, so respectful behavior of all patrons is expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of events and music does Catch One host?
Catch One puts on a wide range of events rather than a single genre. You’ll find everything from hip-hop and R&B to electronic dance music, punk, reggaetón and pop. Nearly every ticketed event is general admission, with DJs or live bands on the main stage and in the side rooms. As one reviewer notes, the club “hosts all types of live music events – hip hop, dance, EDM, punk, reggaetón” . In practice this means check the schedule: some nights are all-ages DJ parties or themed nights, while others feature headline acts or drag shows. If in doubt, follow Catch One’s official calendar and social media for the event lineup.
How can I purchase tickets for a Catch One show?
Tickets are primarily sold online through Catch One’s official ticketing (linked from their website or event pages). The venue encourages buying in advance, and notes that most events offer online sales via their partner. If an event has not sold out, a limited number of tickets may also be sold at the door on the night of the show . We recommend purchasing ahead of time: many popular shows will sell out early. At the door you can generally pay by credit or (sometimes) cash, but arriving early is best to avoid missing out.
What is the address of Catch One and is parking available?
Catch One is located at 4067 W. Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90019 . The club has an on-site parking lot adjacent to the building which guests can use . However, parking can be very tight on busy nights. Street parking is limited in Koreatown, and some fans report a difficult search for a spot . If possible, carpool or use rideshare (drop-offs on Pico Blvd) as an alternative. A few Metro buses also stop nearby – for example, Metro Local Line 30 runs down Pico and stops at Arlington just one block west .
What is the seating configuration? Are there VIP sections?
Most shows at Catch One are general-admission standing-room only on the dance floors. There are no fixed seats on the main floor – the space is mostly open for dancing. The venue does offer VIP or bottle-service tables on occasion (especially near the front), but these must be booked in advance. For example, a guest guide notes that you can buy bottle service on the main floor, but otherwise “most of the seating is open” . Upstairs and off to the sides are smaller lounge areas like the 50-person “Circle Bar” and 350-capacity loft, which give a raised view of the stage. In short, plan to stand and dance; if you specifically need a table, you should request bottle service in advance through the venue.
Are Catch One’s rooms indoor or outdoor?
All of Catch One’s performance spaces are indoors. The venue is a two-level interior with multiple rooms. There is, however, an outdoor event deck/patio (accessible from inside) that is sometimes open for smoking or relaxing. But all music and dancing take place under the roof. So weather won’t affect the party – it’s an enclosed club environment year-round.
What is the capacity of Catch One?
The total capacity varies by how the rooms are configured. When fully open, the main “Disco” area can hold about 800 people on its primary dance floor . Including the upstairs loft (350) and a small side “Circle Bar” (50), the Disco section can host roughly 1,200 people . Other rooms add more: for example, the Underground room is about 450 capacity and the Jewel’s Room about 275 . In sum, the whole venue can accommodate over a thousand guests across its five rooms, but the exact number depends on event setup.
What is the dress code at Catch One?
The dress code at Catch One is generally casual-to-trendy. Staff recommend neat, stylish attire. However, they strictly forbid open-toed shoes (no sandals or flip-flops) and any accessory that could be used as a weapon (like large chains or spiked jewelry) . Essentially: come dressed to party (jeans and club attire are fine), but leave your streetwear bling and beach shoes at home. You should always carry a valid photo ID if you look close to 21, since the bar is age-restricted.
What items am I not allowed to bring into Catch One?
Catch One’s entry rules prohibit a number of items. Large backpacks or purses are not allowed (only small purses or bags that fit on your person will be accepted and will be searched) . Weapons of any kind—knives, pepper spray, tasers, brass knuckles, etc.—are banned . Outside food and drink (like snacks or bottled beverages) are also not allowed. Additionally, large professional cameras/video equipment require prior approval (you can bring a phone or small camera, but big DSLRs or tripods need a media pass) . In short: pack light and only carry essentials (ID and wallet), so you breeze through security.
Is Catch One wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Catch One is handicap‐accessible. The venue has ramps and/or elevators to access the different floors, and ADA‐compliant restrooms. The club’s management explicitly states it is “committed to providing accessible accommodations” . If you need any assistance or seating accommodations for a disability, it’s best to email the club ahead of time ([email protected] ) so they can prepare help for you.
Does Catch One have Wi-Fi or phone charging?
Yes – according to customer reports, Catch One offers free Wi-Fi inside the venue . This is handy for coordinating with friends. There is no public phone charging station that we know of, so bring a portable charger if you need it. Phone use is of course allowed, but as one reviewer cautioned there really isn’t much to do except dance – take any photos quickly and be ready to hit the floor!
Are there any food or drink options at Catch One?
Catch One does not serve food. The venue only has bar service (no kitchen), so for snacks or meals you have two options: eat before you go, or take advantage of food trucks/stands outside. In fact, reviewers note that on busy nights you’ll often find taco trucks or an LA Dog cart parked outside the entrance . Drinks are sold at the bars – beer, wine, and standard cocktails – but don’t expect a fancy mixology menu. A local guide bluntly says “You’re not going to find any craft cocktails here. It’s a standard club drink kinda place” .
What accommodations are there for groups or private events?
Catch One can be rented for private parties or corporate events, with multiple rooms available. The venue’s event deck (see chivalry’s booking info) highlights that the space has five rooms for event use . For regular club nights, groups can purchase table/bottle service in advance. There is also a smaller lounge area called the “Jewel’s Room” upstairs (capacity ~275) that is sometimes offered for private bookings. If you are interested in hosting, the site invites booking inquiries via email. For general visitors, the practical tip is that large groups often secure a table near the dancefloor by reserving ahead, but walk-in guests can still join by purchasing tickets and waiting in line.
What are some nearby hotels and dining options?
The area around Catch One has plenty of hotels and restaurants because it straddles Koreatown. For lodging, travel guides list nearby hotels like the Aventura Hotel or Oxford Palace (both a mile or less away) and the upscale LINE Hotel a bit further west . Dining options run the gamut; within blocks you’ll find classic Korean BBQ and hot pot spots, food trucks, and casual eateries. Notably, according to one guide “there is no food inside” Catch One, but multiple food trucks (tacos, burgers) often operate on Pico after dark . If you want dinner before a show, Wilshire Blvd a few blocks north has many sit-down restaurants and lounges. Overall, arriving an hour or two early to eat nearby (or grab a food truck bite) is wise, as the club will get very busy once the music starts.
