Another iconic venue in West Hollywood is shutting its doors for good. Employees Only LA, a cocktail bar and restaurant that has been a staple in the nightlife scene since opening in April 2018, announced its permanent closure effective September 27. Situated on Santa Monica Blvd, the establishment, known for its moody ambiance and celebrity clientele, expressed gratitude to both staff and patrons in a heartfelt social media post.
Owned by the same team behind the original Manhattan location, Employees Only LA featured a unique, art-deco interior and a hidden speakeasy called Henry’s Room. Its proximity to popular spots like Delilah made it a prime destination for A-list watchers, with celebrities regularly spotted there.
Fans of the bar were taken aback by the news, which follows a recent trend of cherished locations closing in the area. Many comments on social media reflected concerns about West Hollywood’s changing nightlife landscape and rising operational costs, attributed to the city’s strict minimum wage laws, which mandate higher pay for employees.
As multiple beloved venues have recently closed—from The Belmont to Electric Owl—the future of West Hollywood’s nightlife remains uncertain.
