LAReview
photo credit: Robiee Ziegler
Mars
Mars is a hidden cocktail lounge in Hollywood that wants to be a private members club. It’s mysterious as it is expensive, but fan away the cloud of exclusivity surrounding this place and you’ll realize it’s just a tiny room with sofas to drink on.
Mars is tucked away directly behind Mother Wolf. The businesses aren’t related, but both share an affinity for the color red. If Elmo bought a Victorian estate with his Sesame Street residuals, it’d look like this place: red velvet couches, red rugs, and entire swaths of wall draped in red curtains. If you don’t care to dish out $5,000 for Mars’ annual membership—which includes access to their rare spirits collection and a personal liquor cabinet with your name on it—you can still stop by for a solid martini. You’ll need to reserve one of their couches, though, which are usually available on their website for same-day booking. Once 10pm rolls around and the DJ shows up, Mars goes from quiet lounge to miniature club, so book later if you’re looking for a party. Or maybe show up early and pace yourself with the drinks because they’re equally strong and pricey.