About Pigs N’ Whistle
Pig ’N Whistle Hollywood is a historic English-style pub and restaurant on Hollywood Blvd. It opened on July 22, 1927 in a Spanish-Revivial décor by architects Morgan, Walls & Clements, featuring hand-painted tiles, carved wood ceilings, and even a vintage Wurlitzer organ (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (laist.com ). For decades it drew Golden Age movie stars (Shirley Temple, Cary Grant, Loretta Young, etc.) before and after premieres at the adjacent Egyptian Theatre (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (laist.com ). After a $1.5M restoration in 1999–2001 it reopened with its classic dark-wood interior and signature pig-themed motifs, offering American and British pub classics like Fish & Chips alongside an inventive seasonal menu (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (www.opentable.com ). Today it stands as one of the last relics of Old Hollywood, prized for its vintage vibe, carved Mayan-Egyptian accents and legacy (even hosting movie premieres and Walk-of-Fame celebrations) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (www.discoverlosangeles.com ). The pub is located at 6714 Hollywood Blvd (next to the Egyptian Theatre), seating well under 200 people in the main dining room and a rear performance area. (Call ahead at (323) 463-0000 for groups or to inquire.)
Events and Programming
Pig ’N Whistle has long been known for live entertainment. In its heyday it hosted local and regional bands, acoustic singer-songwriters and blues jams on weekends – even All-Star Blues Jams on Thursdays with surprise guests (patch.com ) (www.tripexpert.com ). According to Songkick, performers as recent as 2019–2020 included indie artists like Matt Michienzie and L. Marie Cook playing the back room stage on Saturdays (www.songkick.com ). Today the scheduled programming (before its 2021 closure) typically included karaoke every Wednesday and Thursday night (with drink specials), DJs and dancing on Fridays and Saturdays, and chill/lounge music on Sunday nights (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). Special events have included themed parties (e.g. holiday “Cleopatra’s Ball” New Year’s gala or charity toy drives) and occasional ticketed concerts. Most nights are casually admission-based: many shows have no cover or a small $5–$10 entry fee, while bigger events (holiday dances, special concerts) might range $20–$30. (Check the venue’s Facebook page or call the club for each event’s ticket details (pignwhistlehollywood.com ).) For open-mic nights or one-off performances, Pig ’N Whistle often advertised schedule changes by phone and social media (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). In short, expect a mix of karaoke, live bands (rock/blues/jazz) and dance nights, usually several times each week when the venue was open.
Tickets and Booking
Pig ’N Whistle had no official box office and generally did not sell tickets through third-party sites. For most evenings it operated like a pub: no advance tickets, just pay at the door (or just buy a drink to enter). Special events or large concerts sometimes offered advance e-tickets or wristbands (typically through local promoters), but these were announced on the Pig’s website and social media. The venue’s own site advises fans to “Visit our Facebook page for up-to-date info and schedule of events” (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). In practice, the best strategy was to watch the Pig’s Facebook/Instagram or call (323-463-0000) ahead: open gigs often had free or low-cost “tickets at door,” while bigger parties or festival nights might have limited-paid advance tickets. Ticket prices, when applicable, were usually modest (often $10 or less), reflecting the pub’s laid-back vibe. There was no obligation to purchase through an official outlet; arriving early and reserving a table or purchasing a cover charge at the door was the norm. (When Pig ’N Whistle reopened or changed format, check official announcements – previous management shifted to requiring membership-only access for some weekly events, as noted in the venue info (pignwhistlehollywood.com ).)
Seating and Layout
The Pig ’N Whistle is set up like a classic tavern with a main bar/dining room and a raised rear stage area (often called the “Back Room” or “Backstage” lounge). Guests typically choose their own seating on a first-come basis – there are tables of two-to-four near the bar and front windows, plus high-top tables and stools facing the stage. The rear or side area has an open floor for dancing, and at least one small corner stage for bands (with basic stage lighting). A balcony and mezzanine are mentioned in historic accounts, but these were usually reserved for private parties (not general seating). In general, the best viewing spots for live music are at floor-level tables closest to the stage or (if it was open) the front of the rear room. The sound system is an in-house PA typical of a nightclub-bar (adequate bass and volume), so cell-phone recordings won’t capture the full range. Acoustics are warm but can be loud in the front area when bands play. There are no fixed seat numbers – it’s largely general admission or open seating. (If planning to watch a big show, arriving 15–30 minutes early to secure a good table or stand by the stage is wise.)
Getting There and Parking
Pig ’N Whistle is at 6714 Hollywood Blvd (between Las Palmas Ave and Ivar Ave) in Hollywood, adjacent to the historic Egyptian Theatre (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). It’s easily reached from anywhere via Hollywood Boulevard. By car, you can drop off passengers right in front on Hollywood Blvd (largest lane curbside). For parking, nearby options include: metered street parking (2-hour limits on Hollywood and side streets, which can fill up afternoons through evenings), and several lot/garages. The City of Los Angeles operates Ovation Garage (Lot #745) at 6801 Hollywood Blvd (just over a block east) – a huge underground lot with over 3,000 spaces charging roughly $6/hour ($12 for 2 hours) (en.parkopedia.com ). The Roosevelt Hotel garage (6801 Hollywood) and other private lots (e.g. Pantages Theatre lot, 6864 Hollywood) also serve the area. Valet parking is rare; most guests self-park. During peak events, it’s often faster to use a rideshare: Uber/Lyft drop-off is straightforward at the front sidewalk. Public transit options: the Metro B (Red/Purple) Line Hollywood/Highland Station is about a 10-minute walk east; many Metro buses (Line 212 along Hollywood Blvd, DASH Hollywood) stop within a few blocks. In short, plan extra time to find parking in busy evening – either pre-book a spot or arrive early. (Note: on-site parking lot fees can vary but typically run $10–$20 for an evening.)
Inside the Venue
Entering Pig ’N Whistle, you’ll pass into a dimly lit pub room filled with antique-style décor and Hollywood memorabilia. Staff are friendly and check ID for 21+ spots (FYI, expect ID checks for alcohol – it’s a bar at heart). Security is low-key (no heavy metal detectors); casual bar/lounge vibes. You’ll find a full-service bar offering draft beers, cocktails and wines. A complete hot kitchen serves lunch/dinner until about 9:30pm daily (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). The menu (American pub and British comfort fare) was available noon–9:30pm (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (www.opentable.com ); classic items included fish & chips, burgers, sandwiches, salads, spicy calamari, etc. (www.opentable.com ). Happy hour was typically weekdays 3–6pm (discounted drinks and appetizers) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). Restrooms are visible off the main bar (the “haunted” lower-level restrooms were legend, though management advised using the bar floor facilities). Film and TV fans will notice old movie posters, photos of stars, and even a vintage jukebox often playing Sinatra or Motown. There was no coat check (bring only small bags) and no official cloaking – just tuck your jacket by your seat. Cuts of meat and beers are on display; some nights vinyl or CDs played before live acts. On busy weekend nights, the place hums with conversation and music; at quieter times it feels like a neighborhood pub. The venue had Wi-Fi off by default (ask staff if needed), and charging ports were limited – it’s a place to unplug and enjoy the ambiance. For merchandise or souvenirs, none was sold on-site (it’s strictly a bar/restaurant, not a museum). The old neon pig sign (removed in 2021) gave way to an interior filled with warm wood, tile pigs in the floor, and arched windows – a unique atmosphere both for dining and dancing.
Nearby Amenities
Pig ’N Whistle sits in the heart of Hollywood’s tourist district, so you’re surrounded by amenities. Restaurants for pre-show dining are plentiful: just east on Hollywood is the historic Musso & Frank Grill (iconic steakhouse and old-Hollywood institution), and south on Las Palmas/Tropical you’ll find several cafes and casual spots. Fast-casual chains and cafes (Subway, Starbucks, Denny’s, etc.) are interspersed along Hollywood Blvd. Nearby bars and nightlife include The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel lounge, Frolic Room or Good Times at the Gatsby (all within 2 blocks). For post-concert drinks, steps away on Ivar or Las Palmas are open late spots like Bodega or Highland Park Bowl. Several boutique shops and the Dolby Theatre (home of Oscars) are a block east for entertainment. Several mid-range hotels are 5–10 minutes’ walk: The Hollywood Roosevelt and Ramada Plaza (7200 block of Hollywood Blvd) are within easy strolling distance; slightly further are LGBT-friendly hotels on N. Highland Ave and budget motels on Sunset Blvd. Walking around the block, you’ll find ATMs, a Walgreens, and a Metro station (as noted) – all within 10 minutes. Hollywood is a busy area, so allow extra arrival time for crowds, and note that crosswalks and traffic lights govern pedestrian flow (Hollywood Blvd can be heavy with cars). Late-night cabs or app rides are widely available on Hollywood’s main avenue. In short, everything from dining to transportation is close by: just step outside Pig ’N Whistle and you’re in the thick of Hollywood Boulevard’s shops and dining scene.
What Makes This Venue Special
Pig ’N Whistle’s charm comes from its authenticity and history. It’s a genuine 1920s Hollywood pub that has hosted A-list stars for nearly a century (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (laist.com ). The elaborate Spanish/Mayan-Egyptian interior – hand-carved ceilings, tiled horse mosaic floors and a massive organ – transports you to glamour days of old Hollywood (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (laist.com ). Reviewers note it has “lots of character” and “historic old-style” atmosphere (www.tripexpert.com ). Local lore even suggests playful ghosts of Hollywood’s past haunt the place, adding to the lore. Musically, it’s cherished by local artists as an intimate stage; witnesses at the bar have included touring blues legends and surprise celebrity jam sessions (its Thursday blues jams famously drew players like Kenny Wayne Shepherd in earlier years (patch.com )). Economically and culturally, Pig ’N Whistle anchored the Hollywood Boulevard community, providing jobs and a family-friendly spot (by day) while preserving Hollywood’s Art Deco heritage. After its 2021 closure and renovation controversy, preservationists rallied around it, underscoring that pig-branded neon sign, ornate bar and fairy-tale décor were not just kitsch, but an irreplaceable piece of LA’s cinematic history (laist.com ) (laist.com ). Today its memory lives on in photos and anecdotes – film buffs love hearing that Judy Garland or Cary Grant once lunched where you stand (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (laist.com ). For many, the Pig ’N Whistle epitomized “Old Hollywood” in a way few places could: a friend-loved tavern that bridged generations of locals and tourists alike. (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (www.tripexpert.com )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The bar is at street level with no steps at the main entrance, so it is generally wheelchair accessible on the ground floor. (However, any second-floor balcony or upstairs area is not ramped.) Bathrooms are standard gender-designated stalls – one on the main level is ADA-accessible. Service animals are welcome by law. If you have special needs, it’s wise to call ahead and check. What to Bring: Always bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink (21+). The venue enforces age requirements and will check IDs at the door during busy or late-night events. There was no specific bag size limit, but large backpacks or coolers would be impractical. No outside food or beverages are permitted. Feel free to bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music, and carry some cash or card for the cover charge or tip (bar and kitchen accept major cards). Good to Know: Dress in smart-casual to business-casual attire (www.opentable.com ) – Pig ’N Whistle was never a black-tie place, but jeans and a nice top or collared shirt are the norm. During daytime hours it feels family-friendly; after dark it turns into a nightlife spot (particularly on weekends). Phones and personal photography are fine (no flash please), but tripod or professional recording gear would likely be flagged. The house jukebox (if on) and live bands often require loud conversation. Tip generously for good service – it survived decades on its reputation and relies on repeat locals. Insider Advice: Arrive early for popular shows or happy hour. The pub shares its block with theaters, so evenings can be very busy. The friendly bartenders often remember regulars’ names and drinks; introduce yourself! If a show seems sold out but you have no ticket, call the pub – sometimes they hold a few spots at the door. Also sign up for the venue’s e-mail list or VIP club on their website (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) for one-off discounts or secret invites (they used to do that). Finally, don’t rush out at closing: Hollywood Blvd is lively late, but be mindful of crosswalks and cabs. In short, treat Pig ’N Whistle like a classic local pub – soak in the history, tip well, and enjoy the vintage Hollywood vibe.
What is the exact address and contact information for Pig 'N Whistle?
Pig ’N Whistle Hollywood is located at 6714 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (pignwhistlehollywood.com ), right next to the historic Egyptian Theatre. For inquiries or reservations, the phone number listed was (323) 463-0000 (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). (This is the official venue phone; be aware that operations are currently in transition.)
What kind of performances and events did Pig 'N Whistle host?
Before its renovation closure, Pig ’N Whistle offered live entertainment most nights. Weekly staples included karaoke on Wednesdays and Thursdays, local band concerts or “music showcases” in the back room Wed–Sat, and DJs/dance parties on Friday and Saturday nights (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). Past special events ranged from blues jam sessions (hosted monthly by local artists) to holiday dance balls (e.g. a New Year’s “Cleopatra’s Ball”). In general, the venue booked rock, blues and folk bands by local acts and touring indie performers (Songkick lists shows in late 2019–early 2020 by artists like Matt Michienzie) (www.songkick.com ). Shows were often casual cover-free events or low-cover gigs (around $0–$10), with a few bigger ticketed parties up to ~$20–$30. Always check the Pig ’N Whistle’s official/Facebook page for the latest schedule, as programming was subject to change.
How and where could I purchase tickets for Pig 'N Whistle events?
Pig ’N Whistle did not have a traditional ticketing system. For most live nights and regular programming, you could just show up at the door (many events had no cover or a small charge) and pay there. For larger or special events, tickets were sometimes sold via local promoters or on-site. The venue itself directed people to its Facebook page or Instagram for announcements (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). In practice, the best strategy was to watch the social media/phone updates posted by the bar, or call the box office line in advance. There was no official online ticket platform tied to the Pig – advance tickets (if any) were informal through promoters or email lists. Always confirm in advance: for example, a holiday gala or headliner might require buying a wristband through a partner site, but most gigs were walk-in.
What are typical ticket prices or cover charges?
By design, Pig ’N Whistle kept live-music admission affordable. Many open-mic, karaoke and band nights were effectively free—patrons just buy a drink. When there was a cover charge, it was generally modest (often ~$5–$10) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). Only larger events or themed parties charged premium prices (e.g. special dance nights or holiday shows could be $20–$30). If unsure, the rule of thumb was: weekday entertainment tended to be no-cover or small-cover, while a major Saturday headliner or New Year's Eve ticket might cost more. Don’t expect 3-digit ticket prices at this kind of local pub venue.
Is there assigned seating, and where is the best place to sit?
No, Pig ’N Whistle did not use reserved seating. Seating was entirely open (first-come) in its dining and bar areas. For the best view, grab a table or bar stool near the performance stage (usually at the back). The main front area is raised about 8–12 inches, so even those further from the stage can see over the lower ones in front. Many concert-goers would stand or dance on the open floor directly in front of the stage for the fullest experience. In summary: arrive early for shows and choose a spot facing the stage (near stage for intimacy; at bar top for cocktails) because there’s no pecking-order on seats.
What are the parking options near Pig 'N Whistle?
Parking around Hollywood Blvd can be tight. Pig ’N Whistle relied largely on street parking and adjacent lots rather than an on-site lot. Metered street parking (2-hour limits) is available along Hollywood Ave and nearby side streets – but spots fill quickly on weekends. A more reliable solution is nearby parking garages: City Parking Lot #745 (Ovation) at 6801 Hollywood Blvd is roughly one block east (rate about $6 per hour or $12 for two hours) (en.parkopedia.com ). The Roosevelt Hotel parking (6800 blk) and smaller paid lots on the block also serve guests. There’s no validated parking, so expect to pay garage rates ($10–$20 for an evening). Alternatively, rideshare drop-offs are common – simply ask your driver to pull up on Hollywood Blvd near the entrance. There’s no free lot specifically for Pig 'N Whistle; plan to pre-pay or use a parking app for the nearby garages.
What public transportation serves the Pig 'N Whistle area?
The venue is easily reachable by public transit. The closest Metro rail stop is Hollywood/Highland on the Red (B) Line, about a 10-minute walk east on Hollywood Blvd. Several local buses run on Hollywood Blvd – notably Metro Line 212 (east-west) – with stops just a block or two from the Pig. The DASH shuttle (Hollywood route) also stops nearby. Essentially, any bus or rail that runs along Hollywood Blvd can get you within walking distance. Once off transit, head west from Highland or east from Cahuenga Blvd toward 6714 Hollywood Blvd. A helpful tip: the Pig 'N Whistle is located amid three major Hollywood Boulevard intersections, so any south/north cross street (Las Palmas, Highland, Vine) has bus service.
Is Pig 'N Whistle wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main entrance and ground-floor dining/bar area are level with the sidewalk, making the public space accessible. An entrance ramp is not needed because the bar was built at street level. Inside, there is ample space to move around tables. One bathroom stall on the bar level is ADA-accessible. However, any upstairs or balcony sections (used for private events) were not on the main level and may not be accessible. If you need accommodations (seating at ground level, etc.), it’s a good idea to call ahead. Service animals are welcome as per law.
Are children allowed at Pig 'N Whistle?
Pig ’N Whistle was family-friendly in the early evening (it was not a strictly 21+ club). During daytime and early evening, families with kids were common, and high-chair or booster seating was available at dining tables. However, after around 9pm or so, it transitions into a bar/club atmosphere, and patrons are required to be 21+ to drink. Practically, if visiting with teenagers or children, aim to arrive well before dinnertime, and definitely by nightfall. Always carry IDs for any adults, since bartenders will enforce age checks for any alcoholic orders. (Also, note that certain late-night performances or “21+ only” dance nights might restrict entry to adults.)
What is the dress code?
Pig 'N Whistle has a relaxed setting. The dress code is essentially business casual (www.opentable.com ). In practice, this means no torn gym wear or overly revealing outfits; most patrons wore jeans or slacks with a nice shirt or blouse. Avoid beachwear or flip-flops if you have them. If attending a special event (like a themed party), people might dress a bit sharper. Otherwise, think of it as a nice neighborhood pub: smart-casual attire will keep you comfortable and fitting with the crowd.
What items are prohibited or restricted at Pig 'N Whistle?
Standard bar/club rules applied. Large bags or outside food and drink were not allowed inside. Weapons or illegal substances were, of course, prohibited. Photography (without flash) for personal use was generally fine, but professional photo/video gear would require pre-approval. The venue usually had no coat check, so plan to keep personal belongings at your feet or on your lap. In short: bring ID (for alcohol), a reasonable purse or wallet, and nothing illegal or unsafe. As a courtesy, phones should be kept on silent or vibrate once the live show starts.
Does Pig 'N Whistle serve food year-round?
Yes. The kitchen typically served a full menu every day from noon until about 9:30pm (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). This included core pub fare (burgers, fish & chips, sandwiches, salads, etc.) (www.opentable.com ) and daily specials. If you arrive late (after 9:30pm), the kitchen closes, but the bar remains open until late (Sun–Wed to 11pm, Thur–Sat to 2am (pignwhistlehollywood.com )). There was also a weekday happy hour (Mon–Fri 3–6pm) with appetizer specials and drink deals (pignwhistlehollywood.com ). So even if you didn’t catch a show, you could enjoy dinner or snacks and craft beers at the pub on any day of the week.
Is Pig 'N Whistle currently open and operating?
As of late 2023/early 2024, Pig ’N Whistle Hollywood is not operating in its original form. The restaurant/bar closed during the COVID era, and a new owner began a renovation in 2021. That process (altering the interior and exterior for a new concept called “Mr. Tempo”) became a major preservation controversy (laist.com ) (lataco.com ). The building had a stop-work order and the iconic pig signage was removed (replaced with skull imagery) by the restauranteur Jorge Cueva (laist.com ) (lataco.com ). As a result, Pig ’N Whistle has been essentially closed since 2021. There has been no official reopening date announced for the original pub. For planning purposes, visitors should be aware the Hollywood Boulevard location remains empty or under construction; current news should be checked on Los Angeles preservation sites or local media for any updates on its reopening or replacement.
Why is Pig 'N Whistle considered a Hollywood landmark?
Pig ’N Whistle was one of the very last vestiges of Hollywood’s 1920s-50s golden era. Opening in 1927, it became a gathering spot for movie stars and ordinary families alike (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (laist.com ). Its lavish Spanish-Egyptian décor and iconic pig logo stood out on Hollywood Blvd as a Portal to Old Hollywood charm. Even after the original chain mostly died out, the Hollywood location remained ”the only one standing” (laist.com ). In recent years, its nearly century-old sign and ornate interior drew preservation attention; critics argued destroying or altering it would be a “betrayal” to Hollywood’s history (laist.com ) (lataco.com ). In short, Pig ’N Whistle is famous not just as a neighborhood pub, but as a storied Hollywood institution – a place we can tangibly link back to classic film premieres and star-studded movie culture (pignwhistlehollywood.com ) (www.tripexpert.com ).
