Neighborhood: Los Feliz

Fred 62 could possibly be the greatest diner dinning experience in all of Los Angeles. The food, the service, the atmosphere, and the location are all top notch and make for one hell of a meal. As a matter of fact, the only thing bad about “Fred’s” (as my girlfriend calls it), is its lack of a parking lot (but that’s a problem with just about everything in Hollywood). If you’re into diner food, Fred 62 will not disappoint.

Located in the art district known as Los Feliz, Fred 62 is one of the hippest places in the Hollywood area. Its diner image really belies the fact that Fred’s is actually home to some of the best quality food in California. There are many great meals to be had on their expansive menu, but the best thing (and really the only thing I order anymore) is the Juicy Lucy Burger. The Juicy Lucy holds the candle as THE best burger in Los Angeles. Its generous size and high quality meat make good fodder for the brain, and the toasted bun only adds to it. The Juicy Lucy is also topped with thousand island – an essential ingredient for burgers. Of course burgers don’t come alone, and Fred’s fries (or onion rings for that matter) really shine. Oh, and who could forget the milkshakes, another essential part to the whole experience.

In terms of image, Fred 62 carries a somewhat homemade motif, with leather car seats for booths, and pictures on the wall. Even the seats outside offer great scenery and comfort. Another great little thing about Fred’s is the “Sayings” on the back the crew’s t-shirts (such as “Jesus is our Dishwasher”). In fact, the service at Fred’s is some of the best in town. They are very attentive and quite speedy in getting your food (somewhat of a rarity in Los Angeles these days).

All in all, I have nothing bad to say about Fred 62. It’s a genuine landmark in the Hollywood area, and a great place to bring your friends after a late night of partying, or your girlfriend for a quick bite to eat. Fred 62 is all that and more, just see for yourself.

My first impression of the world famous Derby club in Los Feliz was a good one. The inside décor offers a comfortable atmosphere, even if the club fills up (which happens more often than not). It also offers some of the best live performance sound of all the Hollywood music clubs. Yet, from a performance standpoint, the on stage sound, and sound crew leave a lot to be desired. Of course, the majority of you will be there to enjoy the music, and I’m here to tell you, you will.

As you walk through the front door you are presented with a choice. To the left is a small acoustic room for solo performers and singer-songwriters, and to your right is the main live room where the bands tear the roof off! There are way too many acoustic rooms in Hollywood, so make your way to the right.

Upon entry you will be greeted by the martini bar stuck very inconveniently in the center of the room. I only say this because when things are busy and packed, it makes it very difficult to get a drink. To the right of the bar you’ll find several tall bar tables with comfortable chairs. These also offer the best view of the stage (granted they are also closest to the speakers so if you like it loud, than go ahead!). On the other side of the bar are a collection of well designed, but unpractical booths. Though they offer supreme comfort, the visual element is supremely lacking.

So once you’ve positioned yourself it will be time to listen to the music. Caddy corner from the booths is the stage – with enough room to fit a four member group comfortably. For those bands who have pianists (such as mine), the Derby has a great sounding baby grand already miked up (a huge plus for us who have to move our own equipment). Though the onstage monitor system lacks the punch of most other clubs, the balance of the instruments is surprisingly good, and the sound from the crowd is excellent.

So bring your friends down to the corner of Hillhurst and Los Feliz to see some of the best bands in Los Angeles (not just any band can play the Derby). The Derby is sure please!