About The Virgil
The Virgil is a family-owned, 21+ craft cocktail bar and performance venue on the edge of Silver Lake in Los Angeles (giggster.com ) (www.thevirgil.com ). Housed in a vintage-inspired interior by Chapple Design, it opened in mid-2012 (under Temple Bar Concepts of Townhouse/Del Monte fame) and quickly became known for its dual “A Side” (stage) and “B Side” (lounge/bar) layout (thevirgilbar.wordpress.com ) (giggster.com ). The venue’s décor mixes 1920s saloon and Havana-era lounge motifs – think gold-stained walls, antique leather banquettes, wooden barrels and ornate wallpaper (thelosangelesbeat.com ) (thevirgilbar.wordpress.com ) – giving it a warm, nostalgic vibe. A signature vintage jukebox (“Venus”) on the bar side adds to the retro charm, playing an eclectic mix of funk, soul and classic LPs (thelosangelesbeat.com ). With full sound and lighting systems built in, The Virgil serves as both a neighborhood cocktail lounge and an intimate live music and comedy hall (giggster.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ). Its owners also run historic Silver Lake clubs like Los Globos, El Cid and Catch One, tying The Virgil into LA’s rich music scene (www.thevirgil.com ).
Events and Programming
The Virgil hosts a wide variety of events nearly every night, blending music, dance, comedy and theme nights. On the “A Side” stage you’ll find live bands, touring indie and hip-hop acts, and comedy shows (it was a stop for the long-running Hot Tub Comedy tour) (www.thevirgil.com ) (www.thevirgil.com ). Resident concert series range from R&B/hip-hop nights (e.g. “PayDay” rap showcases) to punk and hardcore events（“Queer As Punk” dance parties） (www.thevirgil.com ) (www.thevirgil.com ). The “B Side” lounge typically features DJs and themed dance parties every weekend, plus weekly specials (like Whiskey Wednesdays or tiki cocktail nights). The venue is known for fun pop-dance contests and guest DJ sets – even a Drag show (“LA Women”) and Pride-themed turntable series have been billed here (www.thevirgil.com ) (www.eventsincalifornia.com ). Comedy and variety events (such as Hannibal Buress standup (www.thevirgil.com )) pop up on the calendar too. In short, The Virgil’s programming is diverse: anything from live jazz ensembles or burlesque to soda-pop dance parties, boostered by creative cocktails and late-night revelry.
Tickets and Booking
Ticketing is event-specific. For most concerts or performances, tickets are sold in advance through official channels (The Virgil’s website or authorized ticket sellers). Prices vary by show – smaller local band gigs often run $10–$20, while bigger-name acts or special events may be higher. (For example, an upcoming rock concert at The Virgil was priced at about $12.50 (www.eventbrite.com ).) Tickets sometimes appear on platforms like Eventbrite or Bandsintown. If a show isn’t sold out, you can usually buy at the door (cash or card). The venue’s box office generally operates only on event nights. To secure spots at popular shows, it’s best to buy early or join mailing lists/social feeds for presale codes – rush door sales can sell out for major headliners. In any case, all tickets and door policies are clearly listed by event (check those and arrive early for entry).
Seating and Layout
The Virgil is primarily general admission. The “A Side” main room offers up to ~250 standing capacity (www.tagvenue.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ), with no fixed seats. This space includes a low stage and an open dance floor area; audience members stand or mingle in the room. The “B Side” lounge (the bar area) holds about ~100 people (www.tagvenue.com ), with some couches, bar stools and high-top tables you can use. For a live show, the best viewing is usually near the front-center of the stage floor – but be aware sound can be loud close to the speakers. If you prefer sitting or chatting, find a corner seat or couch on the B side where music is still audible but softer. (The B Side’s built-in jukebox and cozy seating make it good for more intimate conversation between songs (thelosangelesbeat.com ).) There is no balcony or separate VIP section, so top views simply come from arriving early to claim a good spot. The entire venue benefits from high-quality acoustics and professional sound rigs (www.tagvenue.com ) (www.nightflow.com ), so expect clear sound throughout and good lighting on stage. Avoid blocking the dance floor; if you don’t want to dance, hang back by the bar or sides. In short, treat it as a classic small club: standing room is the rule, and prime spots go to early arrivals.
Getting There and Parking
The Virgil’s address is 4519 Santa Monica Boulevard (corner of Virgil Ave), in East Hollywood near the Silver Lake border. Being near Santa Monica Blvd and Virgil Ave, it’s well connected by transit. Metro buses #4, #204, #754 and local DASH routes stop nearby, and the Metro B (Red) and D (Purple) subway lines can be reached (Hollywood/Western station is about 1.5 miles north) (moovitapp.com ). From Western/Hollywood you can catch the #4 bus east to Virgil, or a rideshare/Uber the rest of the way. For drivers, limited street parking is available on city blocks around the club. Nearby free spots can be found just a block away (some have multi-day time limits) (www.spotangels.com ), but many spaces are metered (around $2 for 2 hours as of late 2025 (www.spotangels.com )) so read signs carefully. There are a few small public garages/ lots a short walk off Santa Monica. Rideshare/drop-offs are common – just ask your driver to let you out at Santa Monica Blvd & Virgil. If driving, note Santa Monica can be busy; plan extra time. For late night returns, rideshare or taxi is safest, as bus service becomes infrequent after midnight.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Virgil, staff will check ID (21+ with valid government ID is strictly enforced (giggster.com )). Expect a short bag check for security. There’s a single general admission floor plan: one main bar in the lounge (B Side) and often a smaller service bar on/near the stage side. The bartenders serve craft cocktails, beers (bottled and on tap), wine by the glass and well drinks. The cocktail menu is a big draw – think specialty drinks like the Diablo or Rio Smash (www.mapquest.com ), made with fresh-squeezed juices and premium liquors (rum, tequila, mezcal, whiskey, etc (thevirgilbar.wordpress.com ) (www.mapquest.com )). During shows, you can order at the bar or at tables; note that there’s typically no full kitchen, so no meals – just snacks (and that popular Hot Dog Lady stand out front (www.mapquest.com )). Inside, the lighting is festive and dimmed during performances; candles and neon signs add to the ambience. Wi-Fi may or may not be available (assume limited cell service inside). Restrooms are on site (one for men, one for women, unfortunately no men’s ADA mention); lines can form during busy events. There’s likely a paid coat check service on colder nights. Merchandise tables for touring acts sometimes appear on the side. Photography from phones is okay, but check with staff before using any professional camera/video gear or flash. Smoking is prohibited inside (as in all LA clubs), but there may be a small outdoor smoking area at the entrance. Overall the mood is friendly and lively – you’ll hear funk/soul from the jukebox in quieter moments (thelosangelesbeat.com ), and the house DJs keep dancers moving on weekends. Staff are usually relaxed. Remember this is a neighborhood hangout as much as a dance club, so casual attire is fine (most patrons wear jeans, tees or club-casual outfits). Cocktails and craft beers are the stars of the menu – consider asking bartenders for recommendations or seasonal specials.
Nearby Amenities
The Virgil sits in a lively part of East Hollywood/Silver Lake. Just outside is the famous Hot Dog Lady stand (the same address 4519 Santa Monica) which serves classic bacon-wrapped dogs and sausages late into the night (www.mapquest.com ) – perfect for a quick bite. A block or two away on Santa Monica are casual eateries: a busy Mexican taqueria (like Bar Jose at Normandie), ramen shops, a popular burger joint (Square One Burger Bar on Sunset Blvd), and pizza places. Silver Lake’s eateries (5–10 minutes away by car) include Apis Lounge (Mediterranean), Lost Panda (ramen), and trendy brunch spots if coming early. For pre-show drinks or snacks, check the bar’s rotating cocktail specials. After shows, Silver Lake and nearby Hollywood neighborhoods offer many bars and late-night diner options – The Satellite (music venue), Bar Bandini (pizza & cocktails), and the nearby Strange Times (coffee shop with beer taps) are local favorites. Hotels are not in this industrial neighborhood, but The Virgil is about 1–2 miles from Hollywood hotels (e.g. Palihotel Hollywood or Hotel Hollywood) and about 3 miles from downtown. If you arrive early, Santa Monica Blvd and Sunset Blvd have shops and cafes to kill time. Plan to get here at least 30 minutes before showtime – lines can form even for entry (and there’s often a line for that cash-only hot dog stand out front (www.mapquest.com )!). Late at night, rideshare pickup is easy along Santa Monica Blvd or you can walk a few blocks to catch #4/#217 bus stops.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Virgil’s charm lies in its mix of craft-cocktail lounge and indie music club under one roof. Its laid-back, “no-fuss” atmosphere has earned praise in Condé Nast Traveler and The Infatuation as one of LA’s most fun bars full of dance parties and comedy nights (www.thevirgil.com ) (www.thevirgil.com ). Patrons love the venue’s vintage saloon vibe – the gilded A-side stage and cozy B-side lounge feel both upscale and comfortable (thelosangelesbeat.com ). The handcrafted cocktails (like those habanero-infused specialties mentioned in reviews), big drink selection and the retro jukebox (Venus) make nights here feel unique. Culturally, The Virgil is a community hub: it regularly hosts queer and local music events (from monthly burlesque to Pride dance nights (www.eventsincalifornia.com )) and gives an intimate platform to emerging artists. Even some famous acts and filmmakers have taken note – scenes in *A Star Is Born* (2018) and *Weird: The Al Yankovic Story* were filmed here (www.thevirgil.com ), a testament to its cinematic, New Orleans-style decor. Its lineage of ownership ties it to LA nightlife history (same family behind the legendary Los Globos). In short, both audiences and performers praise The Virgil for its warm community feel, great sound/light setup and that any-night can turn into something memorable – whether it’s a vintage funk tune on the jukebox or a sweat-soaked dance set. (thelosangelesbeat.com ) (www.thevirgil.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
The Virgil is strictly 21+ – always bring a valid photo ID (no exceptions) (giggster.com ). Dress is casual-to-smart; no strict dress code, but avoid very sloppy attire if you want in line quickly (T-shirts/jeans or smart-casual are common). Large backpacks or suitcases are usually not allowed – carry only essentials. It’s wise to bring some cash for tips or small purchases: the bartenders and coat-check may prefer cash. Don’t expect a kitchen inside – eat beforehand or grab food outside (the Hot Dog Lady stand (www.mapquest.com ) is a popular late-night find). Expect a cover charge on event nights (varies by act), often collected either at the door or online. Phones and cameras can be used for casual photos, but be courteous – no extended pro cameras or tripods without permission. The music can get loud on the stage floor, so if public restrooms are near that area, you might use earplugs for concerts. Coat check is typically available for a few dollars if you have outerwear. Always check The Virgil’s official calendar for event times – the bar only opens on nights with scheduled shows (www.thevirgil.com ). On event nights, doors often open about an hour before showtime; arriving early secures a good spot and lets you beat the crowd (and the parking scramble). Finally, the venue’s staff are friendly but firm about rules (21+ only; no outside alcohol). Keep these tips in mind for a smooth visit and you’ll enjoy The Virgil’s lively, welcoming vibe to the fullest.
What is the capacity of The Virgil?
The Virgil holds roughly 350–400 people total. The larger “A Side” stage room accommodates about 250 standing patrons, while the smaller “B Side” lounge/bar fits around 100 (www.tagvenue.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ). All tickets are general admission, so capacity is reached when nearly every standing spot (and some bar seating) is full.
Where is The Virgil located and how can I get there?
The Virgil’s address is 4519 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles 90029 (corner of Virgil Ave) (www.thevirgil.com ). It’s in East Hollywood near Silver Lake. You can reach it by Metro bus (lines 4, 204, 754, 217 stop at Santa Monica/Virgil) or by taking the Metro B (Red) or D (Purple) line to Hollywood/Western and a short bus or rideshare from there (moovitapp.com ). If driving, use local street parking (some metered spots or free spots nearby (www.spotangels.com )). Rideshares can drop you off on Santa Monica Blvd by Virgil Ave.
Is The Virgil wheelchair accessible?
The building is single-story with street-level entry, so there are no stairs into the main venue. However, note that most of the space is standing-room concert floor. The bar and seating area is on the same level. There are likely accessible bathrooms, but it's best to call ahead if you have specific ADA questions. If you have mobility concerns, you may want to contact the venue to confirm accommodations.
What kind of events does The Virgil host?
The Virgil’s events range widely: live music (rock, indie, hip-hop, folk, electronic), DJs and dance parties, comedy shows, DJ-hosted dance nights, creative-themed nights and more. Weekly examples include comedy (like the Hot Tub Comedy show), rap/R&B showcases (PayDay LA), punk/queer dance parties (Queer as Punk), DJ dance nights (80s or holiday tributes), and burlesque or drag performances. They also have private events and themed club nights. In short, live shows and party events happen almost nightly, each show listing specific genres and acts.
How do I buy tickets for a show at The Virgil?
Tickets are usually sold through the venue’s official event page or authorized sellers (e.g. Eventbrite, StubHub or other ticket sites). Follow The Virgil’s official site or social media for announcements. Many shows allow door sales if not sold out – check the night’s event listing. For example, a future rock concert had tickets on Eventbrite for about $12.50 (www.eventbrite.com ). Popular acts often sell out early, so it’s best to purchase online well before showtime.
When do doors usually open, and should I arrive early?
Doors typically open about 30–60 minutes before the advertised showtime. For popular events, lines can form early. Getting there early (at least 30 minutes before doors) ensures you can get good places (especially for standing-room shows) and handle tickets/ID checks without rushing. Early arrival also helps with finding parking or grabbing a quick bite (like the Hot Dog Lady stand just outside (www.mapquest.com )). If you arrive late, you may have to wait or buy tickets at the door if available, but you could miss the opener.
Is there assigned seating or VIP areas at The Virgil?
No – The Virgil is mostly general admission with standing room only. There are no fixed seats or reserved VIP sections. Some bars have stools or couches on the B Side lounge, but for performances, everyone shares the floor space. If VIP tables or bottle service are offered, they would be handled event-by-event, but generally all guests stand or sit where they find space. Arrive early to stake out any prime spots near the stage f you want the best view.
Is there a dress code or any restrictions on clothing?
The Virgil has a relaxed vibe, so there’s no formal dress code. Most people wear casual club attire – jeans, shirts, dresses are all fine. Avoid very sloppy clothes or athletic wear if you want to blend in. Closed-toe shoes are a good idea since it’s a standing/dancing venue. Hats or hoods aren’t typical inside. Essentially, dress as you would for a fun night out at a bar/club – neat and comfortable, but no tuxes or very casual flip-flops necessary.
What is the venue’s bag and ID policy?
The Virgil enforces 21+ entry, so everyone needs a valid photo ID (state driver’s license, passport, etc.) (giggster.com ). Their staff typically performs a quick bag/pocket check at the door to ensure no prohibited items are brought in. Large backpacks, outside drinks, and professional recording equipment are usually disallowed. For your visit, carry a small bag or wallet only – bring ID, some cash/credit, and you’ll pass through security smoothly.
Is smoking allowed inside The Virgil?
No. Like all Los Angeles bars and clubs, The Virgil bans smoking indoors. If you want to smoke, step outside; the entrance typically has a designated smoking area. Don’t plan to smoke while watching the show – only at the (open) front patio or sidewalk area.
What food and drinks are available inside?
The Virgil is primarily a bar, so its menu is drinks-focused. You’ll find craft cocktails (themed and classic), a full liquor list (emphasizing tequila, mezcal, rum, whiskey), local and imported draft/canned beers, wines, and nonalcoholic mixers. Signature cocktails like the “Diablo” or “Pisco Punch” are popular (www.mapquest.com ). There’s no kitchen for meals, so only bar snacks are served (if at all). Many patrons eat beforehand or grab something nearby – for example, the Hot Dog Lady stand across the street is famous for late-night dogs (www.mapquest.com ). Basically come hungry only if you plan to eat off-site or at local restaurants.
Is The Virgil featured in any movies or TV shows?
Yes. The Virgil’s distinctive interior has caught the eye of filmmakers. Notably, it appears in the film A Star Is Born (2018, starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga) and in the satirical biopic series Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (with Daniel Radcliffe) (www.thevirgil.com ). Its vintage decor makes it a popular choice for on-screen backdrops.
Is The Virgil open every day, and how late does it stay open?
The Virgil’s hours depend on its event schedule. They do not have fixed daily opening times. Instead, they open only on nights when shows are booked (check their online calendar). Typically, when open, the bar side starts serving cocktails at 7–8pm or with the first act, and closes around 2am. It’s common for closing time to be 1–2am after the last performer finishes. Sundays or Mondays might often be dark; Fridays, Saturdays and holiday event nights are the busiest. Always check the event listing or call ahead for a specific night’s hours.
What transportation and parking options are available after the show?
Late night transport is mostly by rideshare or taxi. Metro buses (lines 4, 204, 754) run along Santa Monica Blvd, but services taper off after midnight. The Red and Purple lines stop at Hollywood/Western (where you can catch the bus #4 east), but those trains also end around midnight on weekdays (later Fridays/Saturdays). In practice, many guests use Uber/Lyft for the ride home after 2am. Street parking is free on nearby blocks past 6pm (and Sunday all day), but always double-check signs. Note that the Santa Monica car traffic can remain heavy later at night.
