Paul Kushner
I have to confess I’m a huge stand-up comedy fan. One of my favorite ways to spend an evening in an unfamiliar city is to locate the nearest comedy bar and check out local comics during open-mic nights.
I was tremendously excited about my trip to Los Angeles because I knew the City of Angels had to attract some of the top undiscovered comedic talents hoping to make it in show biz.
Here are the best comedy bars in Los Angeles based on my experience!
Flappers Comedy Club And Restaurant Burbank
102 E Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91502
Phone: (818) 845-9721
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If you enjoy bars or want to explore fun places to get drinks, the Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank is your go-to spot.
This venue serves delicious food, and I highly recommend trying the pizza. The place has an impressive beer selection and a menu with crafted cocktails.
What I like about this venue is that anyone can get on stage during the open mic nights. The atmosphere is laid back, and everyone is here to have a great time and enjoy some comedy.
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
5919 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 556-0225
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The Upright Citizens Brigade is an extension of the UCB, which was founded in New York in the late 90s.
It quickly established itself as a staple of the LA entertainment scene with fun and exciting comedy shows seven nights a week.
It’s the go-to spot for anyone who enjoys alternative comedy, but you can also catch some plays and musicals.
If you’re passionate about comedy, I highly recommend signing up for an improv or sketch writing class! The UCB is on Franklin Avenue in Hollywood Dell.
The Groundlings Theatre & School
7307 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Phone: (323) 934-4747
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The Groundlings Theater & School counts famous alumni like Andrew Friedman, Jennifer Coolidge, and Lisa Kudrow.
This venue has something for everyone, with an original selection of improv shows, sketch shows, and stand-up comedy shows.
I saw a couple of improv shows, and the cast’s chemistry was truly amazing. The Groundlings is on Melrose Avenue.
I recommend grabbing a bite at the nearby Love Baked Wings or Blu Jam Café before the show!
Hollywood Improv
8162 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Phone: (323) 651-2583
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Hollywood Improv is one of the best comedy clubs in Los Angeles, with an excellent selection of beers and some classic American fare.
Sipping on a cool beer and eating a hearty taco brisket while laughing at an improv show featuring Arsenio Hall was one of the most memorable moments of my trip.
Catching a show at Hollywood Improv is the perfect way to end a day in West Hollywood. Make sure to snap a selfie at the nearby Pink Wall before heading to the club on Melrose Avenue.
The Comedy Store
8433 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Phone: (323) 656-6225
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If you’re looking for places to go out in West Hollywood, I can’t recommend the Comedy Store enough. This popular Sunset Boulevard club doesn’t serve drinks, but there is a good selection of food.
It’s a great spot for seeing some celebrities, as well as newcomers to the local stand-up and improv comedy scene.
Among regulars, you’ll find names like Adam Devine, John Caparulo, or Gabriel Iglesias.
The atmosphere is friendly and laidback, but it’s a popular spot that can feel crowded.
Laugh Factory
8001 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Phone: (323) 656-1336
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If you’re looking for fun places to go out in Spaulding Square, the Laugh Factory is an excellent choice.
It’s a local staple with well-known comedians, celebrity guests, and exciting contests. You can also catch hilarious stand-up and improv shows from talented newcomers.
The food selection consists of small snacks. I recommend heading to the nearby Griddle Café, Pizzeria Vivoli across from the club, or Pinches Tacos down the street to grab something to eat before the show.
Westside Comedy Theater
1323-A 3rd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: (310) 451-0850
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The Westside Comedy Theater is a popular night spot in downtown Santa Monica. It’s on 4th Street and Arizona Avenue, not far from the Ice at Santa Monica skating rink.
The venue offers stand-up and improv shows featuring local students and established comedians. It’s an exciting opportunity to get away from LA and discover a slightly different comedy scene.
I loved the wine and beer selection, and the bartender was very helpful in helping me navigate the more than 30 beers available. However, this venue doesn’t serve food.
Jetpack Comedy Show
7702 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Phone: (424) 241-2142
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Are you wondering where to get a drink on Santa Monica Boulevard? I recommend the Jetpack Comedy Show.
This intimate venue puts on a weekly show on Friday nights. The lineups are always impressive and include surprise celebrity guests. I was lucky enough to see two SNL cast members!
The place also has a good selection of food and drinks at affordable prices. It’s the perfect recipe for a fun night in West Hollywood!
The Hollywood Comedy
5871 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Phone: (424) 382-9336
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With weekly comedy shows and open-mic nights, Hollywood Comedy is one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
The venue is small, but the relaxed and friendly atmosphere reminded me why I love comedy shows so much.
You can’t get food or drinks at the Hollywood Comedy, but there are several nearby spots where you can grab a bite, including Inti Peruvian across the street.
You’ll find the Hollywood Comedy on Melrose Avenue and Cahuenga Road in Hollywood.
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