Backstage Bar & Grill Reviews
Reviews from Citysearch
Overall Rating
- Best Dive in town
Read More On Citysearch greyfoxandEagle 5/25/2010 - SOmetime you Wanna GO...!!
Read More On Citysearch greenbridgemed 5/17/2010 - No parking, lots of police patrols, smells like vomit
Read More On Citysearch night owl 5/15/2010 - Happiness is....Good drinks, good service, good crowd... overall my peoples and I love just getting crazy here... in a good way ;)
Read More On Citysearch missywhiz411 1/25/2010 - BEST barOK So I've gone here a few times now and I thought it was time I reviewed the place!!! Seriously my friends and I ADORE this bar. There's karaoke on weekends and you can get VERY drunk for VERY little. We've had the same waitress two Saturday's in a row now and she' s SO sweet/bubbly and took care of us all night long even though it was ridiculously crowded where we sat. The bill is soo chea...
Read More On Citysearch Kimmy M 1/7/2010 - MY NEW FAVORITE BARThe Backstage is, hands down, my favorite bar in LA. Don't be fooled by the exterior. It looks a little forbidding at first. But when you walk in, its like entering an alternative world where everything is right. The place is very dimly lit, but very warm feeling. Everyone that works there is unbelievably friendly. You feel at home right away. Drinks are cheap and the food is sensational. I...
Read More On Citysearch Bombi 10/20/2009 - GARLIC FRIES AND BEER!!!!I've been going to the Backstage for the Sunday games the past couple of weeks. Its been great. I start the morning with a Bloody, which is quite tasty, horse radish and all. Usually, by then I'm feeling alive and switch to beer. They have alot of televisions so I can always find a game I'm interested in. There fries are so good and garlicky that last week I had two orders in one sitting. Warning...
Read More On Citysearch Michaelmotorcycle 10/15/2009 - OMG! Love love love this place!!Just one of the most down to earth places I've ever been to. It's not a "club", it's not a "lounge" per se...it's a bar and a great one at that! Everytime I come in, it's like being on that show "Cheers." If I come in the daytime, Jillian knows my name and has my beer sitting on the bar before my eyes have even adjusted to the darkness. The night bartenders and servers are always super friendly...
Read More On Citysearch JDogLA 10/13/2009 - you're kidding, right?# 2 on the list of "best beer selection in LA"? they had 6 taps, one of them was out (fat tire). a 5th spewed when the bartender tried to get me a taste of the "backstage pale ale", leaving only 4. blue moon, newcastle, miller lite, and something else even less memorable. the bottle selection was only slightly better. now i have to wait until 6 to hit father's office and salvage this beer expedit...
Read More On Citysearch andygator 10/12/2009 - Won't ever go back!!
Well I just moved down to the Culver City area and a co-worker recommended this place to go and have a drink!! I wasn't treated courteously at all, in fact the service was so bad, appetizer and 1 drink and out!! We had to ask the Bartender to sen...d a waitress over and once we got served she never came back to ask if we needed anything else, in fact when she did return that was to give us our ...
Read More On Citysearch jklnhid 10/9/2009 - best place for a good time!Good prices good selections and Rock Band on Sundays... overall a pretty epic experience with great grub and cheap PBR cans and on occasion... Arrogant Bastard 24s... awesome Culver City hangout!
Read More On Citysearch organ donor 10/9/2009 - you got to go see KING CHRIS on wedthis is King Chris inviting you all out for a great live soulful show every wed 900pm
Read More On Citysearch christopherrocha 7/30/2009 - Great KaraokeGood people, great staff, cheap drinks, everyone enjoys. Good atmosphere,
Read More On Citysearch joewatson 7/27/2009 - Best Dive and Food in oneLove a good dive bar and this was up to my specifications. Cheap drinks, chill atmosphere, great jukebox, and very good food for a dive.
Read More On Citysearch ANDREWMICHAELS 7/27/2009 - KARAOKE!Great song list to choose from, even so many new songs! Everyone sings along with you, great place to sing karaoke for the first time! So much fun
Read More On Citysearch Maryupshaw 7/27/2009 - Lakers Won the Championship in this BarGreat service, even when busy. Good food to go along with cheap drinks. TV's in every direction. Just a good spot. Everyone celebrating, it was so much fun.
Read More On Citysearch Jenapple 7/27/2009 - Great MartiniI was not expecting such a great martini from this place. Simply out, I was pleasantly surprised.
Read More On Citysearch RonaldJ 7/27/2009 - great place to hang out eat, drink and have funEveryone that works there is great, the food is good, lots of fun for all. They have a lot of fun things different night of the week also.
Read More On Citysearch deby1 7/19/2009 - Great place to turn 21I had my 21st birthday here this week and it was so much fun! Our waitress was amazing she made sure I had a designated driver, when I had to much (of course) she made sure I was being taken care of. Everyone there was really chill, no "plastic" or "fake" people. I had an amazing Grill Chicken Salad and the drinks were SO STRONG. The first drink I had was a redbull vodka and I swear there wasn't ...
Read More On Citysearch Doobie 6/10/2009 - Downside is the food and service, drinks ok, great atmosphere (if you ignore the service)Writing this EARLY in the AM because the food I had at Backstage last eve woke me up in a bad way... I guess if I happen to be right near by, I might drop back in for a drink and a game of pool (1 table) some time. Definitely not for the food and definitely not going out of my way to get there. Also, our waitress was lame and it was not busy or anything. I had high hopes when I 1st walked in, ...
Read More On Citysearch yumseeker2009 3/7/2009 - Hidden Gem - A Great PlaceSince I've been in LA, I've gone to mostly clubs and lounge-y type places. Fun, but not a lot of warmth. This place reminds me of home (just outside of Chicago). The Backstage is old-school (in a good way), unpretentious and friendly. The staff is not typical 'seen it all, done it all' LA types. They seem like regular people who care about doing their job well and making you feel comfortable...
Read More On Citysearch capturedmemories 3/7/2009 - My new favorite bar in LAI had a Birthday party at Backstage recently and had a blast! The food was awesome(love the fries) Our waitress was very attentive even though we were a big party and it was packed she always had a fresh beer ready for me. The karaoke that night was fun and at times hysterical... I highly recommend this place to anyone that likes a chill neighborhood bar with a lot of heart.
Read More On Citysearch gijoe27 3/7/2009 - Super Salty French Fries with Super Flat Beer on TapThe crowd feels nice, yet the food is horrible. The french fries are so salty that you would need vaseline on your lips to soothe them. Don't even consider the beer on tap because it is flat, same goes for the diet coke. We did not try other drinks.
To get service you need to go to the bar to ask for someone because your server avoids eye contact, even if the bar is half full!
On the plus ...
Read More On Citysearch BarHopperCC 2/7/2009 - THE BEST BAR BY FARIM NOT REALLY IN TO BARS ..... BUT THIS PLACE HAD ME HOOKED WITH MY FIRST DRINK:)
THE DRINKS ARE STRONG AND CHEAP .THIS PLACE IS LOADS OF FUN ITS CROWDED AND VERY LOUD........ THE PEOPLE ARE NICE, FRIENDLY AND LAYED BACK .....GREAT SERVICE AND FOOD.....THE BEST TEQUILA SUNRISES AND GARLIC FRIES...... LOVE THE KARAOKE ....... I LOVE THIS PLACE......
Read More On Citysearch panduro 1/11/2009 - Nice On WeeknightsI haven't been to the Backstage on a weekend, but weekdays are chill. Very comfortable and easy. The crowd and crew are friendly, the lights are low and the jukebox is the best. It looks like a regular bar from the outside, but inside its dark and cozy. I may try it on a weekend someday, but for now, weeknights are for me. $2 drinks on Tuesdays seal the deal.
Read More On Citysearch simmerda 12/30/2008 - My New Favorite BarThis is my new favorite place! I was there for my best friend's birthday and we had the best time ever. I can't remember our server's name, something like Anna, but she gave us the kind of service you could only dream of. Everyone there seemed to be having a crazy good time and the whole place felt like a party. I didn't eat, but the food looked great. It's good, cheap fun and everyone who w...
Read More On Citysearch thelightfandango 12/29/2008 - Worst Karaoke in LAWORST KARAOKE. This place was rated well on here so I decided to have my party here on Saturday the 13th of December, 2008 and it sucked. The Karaoke started an hour late and even though we signed up for songs 45 min before they started, I had to give the guy $20 bucks to finally let my friends and I up after being there for 2 hours and never being called. We were there all night and didn't make ...
Read More On Citysearch microbabe 12/28/2008 - driven by iti've driven by this many times, but have yet to go and check it out, but it sounds like a great time, and def could use some time to relax from work
Read More On Citysearch casualcat 12/16/2008 - Happening Spot EverytimeI've been to Backstage 4 or 5 times now, and it has consistently been somewhere fun with a cool, diverse crowd (not too trendy). The food there is GREAT!!! Definitely have to try the mac & cheese. And if it's your birthday, they really go out of their way to make sure you and your party has a good time. Based on all the great reviews, the place is probably smaller than you'd expect, but it hel...
Read More On Citysearch LovelyBruin 8/10/2008 - This is where I started to love LA....Six friends and I came here on a Wed night to celebrate my 25th bday and I didnt expect much based on the front of the building and the fact that we went out the night before in Hollywood and I was so dissatisfied by the way the bartenders could care less that it was my bday. Boy, I was wrong about the Backstage. This place was so generous to me on my bday! The band sang happy birthday to me a...
Read More On Citysearch Jules061983 6/20/2008 - So much more than a dive bar!This place has become my new favorite bar in Los Angeles. The crowd is unpretentious, the drinks are cheap and strong, and the staff are friendly and efficient. The karaoke regulars are impressive, but everyone cheers for you even if you're terrible. (I should know!)
It's also a great place to have a party -- I celebrated my birthday here last Friday. The cocktail waitress was taking order...
Read More On Citysearch twynkle224 4/28/2008 - Who would have thought aWhat a find! I'm from Hermosa and my date was from West LA, so I sought a burger joint in between. Found Backstage via citysearch. On a Thursday game night parking couldn't be easier. Atmosphere, small and dark but perfect for a bar & grill. Employees from doorman to bartender to waitress COULD NOT HAVE BEEN NICER. Place was packed but we never hurt for service. Our burgers and fries were oka...
Read More On Citysearch unclemitch 4/19/2008 - One of the Best Bars to Work For...I've been a bartender at the Backstage for over 2 years now, longer than I've stayed at any other bar. the customers are awesome, which is a major reason for my longevity. The staff will always greet you with a smile and are genuinely fun people, and the owner truly cares about the happiness of our patrons. The drinks are more than reasonable, and they're made by some of the cutest bartenders ...
Read More On Citysearch Allerick 4/6/2008 - A night well spent!After attending a Birthday party at Backstage this weekend I had to write and let you all know of my plight! I had a BLAST!! I honestly do not like big crowds and am frightend of karaoke but this place changed some beliefs and I certainly will be back. The drinks prices were shockingly reasonable and certainly had a kick... (I am still feeling it today). The food was great for a dive bar and ...
Read More On Citysearch clarasays 4/6/2008 - culver city's best barWe don't have a lot of them, but this is culver city's best bar. Sing a song that people know of don't hear a billion times and you'll do awesome on karaoke.
Read More On Citysearch jameslucascampbell 3/13/2008 - SHANE & CHRIS THE BESTIF U LIve in l.a this is the spot FRiendly people and treat u like fam THursdays are rockin
U guys are the best
Read More On Citysearch Cityofgod 2/28/2008 - Best KaraokeI went there on a Friday night, and it was really fun. I am NOT a karaoke person, but this place even had me singing! If you're going to sing, get on the list early as it can get long. It's totally chill with fast, friendly service. The drinks are cheap, too!
Read More On Citysearch ahlemon 1/6/2008 - Best place to be...This is the best place in town!!!! Good food, great drinks, excellent prices, AND BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE!!! I want to go back many times!!!!
Read More On Citysearch jenyblond007 11/2/2007 - Looks can be deceivingSome friends invited me to join them Tues. night for happy hour at Backstage. When I first walked in, I thought ?what a dive.? It was pretty dark inside and looked empty. As time went on and my eyes acclimated to the light, or lack thereof, I really began enjoying myself. The sliders and the chicken fingers were excellent!! The drinks weren?t too shabby. It ended up being a fun, low-key bar...
Read More On Citysearch sheridanm1 9/27/2007 - Karaoke Explosion!My wife and I are non-drinkers, but we find ourselves at Backstage for karaoke at least a couple times a month. It's such a fun, infectious atmosphere: The service is almost always awesome regardless of the crowd, KJ Shane does karaoke better than anyone (with a phone book-sized book of songs), the food is pretty darn good (nachos and skewers recommended), and you get a perfect mix of great perfo...
Read More On Citysearch violentlee 9/25/2007 - Treated Like Stars!We wouldn't DREAM of having a party anywhere else! We are always treated like stars and they have pleased all of our guests with such smart and varied food. The Karaoke brings us more together and helps to create some really great memories. Every employee at Backstage makes us feel that the evening was created just for us. Cannot wait until the next time.
Conny
Click Media
Read More On Citysearch connyo 9/18/2007 - IF YOU DON'T HAVE FUN AT THIS PLACE, THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH YOU!!!I often check out the reviews of places but never write on. When I saw someone's review trashing Backstage I had the speak out!!! This is the best dive bar in the Los Angeles area!!! I have gone to many birthday's, going away, let's just get together and sing events here!!! I even had my 26th Birthday party here! It was GREAT!!! GREAT FOOD, GREAT DRINKS (CHEAP TOO!!), and a GREAT ATMOSPHERE!!! YO...
Read More On Citysearch nialovely 7/16/2007 - Overrated Bar in West LA
Saturday night I took 3 friends visiting from Pheonix to the Backstage Bar after finding it on citysearch. The reviews had been great so I thought it would be perfect. We got there at 9 and drove around for 15 minutes looking for parking (we finally found a spot down the street) It was kind of busy but after waiting at the bar for a couple of minutes we got a pitcher of beer with 4 of the DIR...
Read More On Citysearch beerdude1219 7/10/2007 - bEST b-DAY PARTY!!!sO i AM STILL BUZZED! My best friend had his b-day tonight at backstage and it was a blast. We ate early and the service was wonderful....and the food...wow. I had a portion of the sampler and it was tasty!!!! The DJ played videos and we danced when we probably shouldn't have but WHO CARES!! Then he started karaoke!!!! I honestly am scared of karaoke but it is fun here. No pretention just...
Read More On Citysearch recicent1 7/8/2007 - No Parking on Motor Ave, Vinton Ave, or Le Bourget
fyi. New parking restrictions have gone into effect. Permit Parking only from 6pm - 8am. The neighborhood is watching closely to insure that bar patrons are ticketed when parking in permit only areas.
Read More On Citysearch jjj4444 6/13/2007 - Great Bar, great Food, fun environmentNice people work there. Even when it is super crowded you don't have to wait to actually get your drink. The way I drink that is important! :-)
I went in for lunch about a month ago and saw some fliers for Ladies night on Wednesday. Sounded like fun so decided to try it out. It was awesome. I go every week now and look forward to wednesdays. I also started to go on saturdays too, not ba...
Read More On Citysearch spec5454 6/13/2007 - Friendly and Fun - Great SpotThis is my idea of what a bar should be, a friendly place where you can be yourself and have a good time on a budget. I've been in on weekdays and weekends and the crowd (bigger on weekends, of course) is a great mix of people...studio types, blue collar types, student types, just a good natured mix. It's very easy to make friends. The Backstage was the second bar I went to when I moved to LA a...
Read More On Citysearch freshandclean 6/6/2007 - just okI was really excited to check out the backstage, since it has been getting great ratings and reviews on citysearch. But honestly, I was just not that impressed with it. Parking was a pain and it felt too stuffy in there. I guess it's a cool hang out if you live in the area, but not worth the drive if you're not.
Read More On Citysearch sarah_c 6/4/2007 - Overrrr-ra-tedCan a dive bar 'jump the shark'? If so, that's the case at the Backstage. One of my friends swears by this place, but I got tired of the same 5 people doing song after song after song on a karaoke night. Luckily there was no line (apparently there has been one in the past on weekends) given how claustrophobic the place seems inside, so I was just glad it wasn't crowded.
For karaoke, one o...
Read More On Citysearch sceneitgirl 5/25/2007 - Great Atmosphere!Thanks to all the Backstage crew for making my birthday awesome! The food is great, the staff is fun, and the drinks are strong! I had a great birthday and my friends all had a blast. I highly recommend going on the weekends during karaoke. Get there early because the place gets packed! Thanks again Backstage, we'll be back soon;-)
Read More On Citysearch erincamron 4/28/2007 - Best Dive BarThis is the best locals dive bar! It's nice and dark and they always play good music. It's a great place to relax after work.
Read More On Citysearch sandyhdz 4/10/2007 - BEST HANG OUT-GREAT SERVICEI GO TO BACKSTAGE ALOT WITH MY GIRLFRIEND AND WE DIG THE ATMOSPHERE. LAST NIGHT WE WENT IN AND HAD A TAB OPEN AT THE BAR USUALLY WE HAVE TO GET UP AND KEEP ON ORDERING FROM THE BAR. THE GIRL THAT WAS GOING AROUND ASKING IF WE WANTED DRINKS CAME AND ASKED US WHEN WE TOLD HER OUR TAB WAS AT THE BAR SHE WAS GREAT WENT AND TOLD THE BAR AND SHE BROUGHT US LIKE 3 DRINKS AND WE STILL CLOSED UP AT THE B...
Read More On Citysearch jmartinez44 3/31/2007 - Good Scene, Cool CrowdI had my barmitsma at the Backstage a few weeks ago and had a really great time. The place was busy, but we were treated really well. Free shots for the whole party and great food made it even better. I even tried karaoke (never had the nerve before) and loved it. Everyone there was cool and the whole place felt like a party. I couldn't believe it when closing time rolled around. We'll definitely...
Read More On Citysearch francohungarian 3/30/2007 - Best place to have a B-day.I planned a last minute birthday party at Backstage and it was great. Ben was very helpful and they still had space for me to reserve a section at no cost despite the last minute request. The KJay was soo nice and fun and accomodating with my group. The food was great. The sliders and wings are awesome. Everyone seemed nice. Although our waitress was not the fastest or the most attentive (When we...
Read More On Citysearch brnsugar31 3/20/2007 - BEST PARTY VENUE!!!I just celebrated my 30th birthday at Backstage and it was by far, THE most fun I have EVER had at a bar AND for my birthday. I had a party of 25 people which is a lot to handle but I never lifted a finger to do anything--our waitress Kendra, Misty the caterer, and the support team did ALL of the work and did it in a fluid, fun, and timely fashion. I seriously never had to think about the detail...
Read More On Citysearch leahdc 2/10/2007 - Hidden Gem - My Favorite Bar in LAAfter years of sampling what our fine city has to offer, I can now say without a doubt that Backstage is my favorite bar in LA. It's that perfect combination of popular but still low-key and not scene-y. The drinks are strong and cheap - especially with the daily drink specials. The bartenders are really friendly and totally take care of you, and the karaoke with KJ Shane on Th/Fri/Sat is the...
Read More On Citysearch rachel_w 2/3/2007 - Tons Of Fun!!!My buddies and I were looking for a place to watch the Laker game last night. I stumbled across the Backstage while looking for bars on Citysearch. What a great find! With over five televisions we never had to strain our necks to watch the game. It was a Tuesday so the drinks were like two bucks a piece. We played pool at halftime. Only one of us ate, but my buddy said the burger was good. Overal...
Read More On Citysearch seirawan 1/31/2007 - Yeah Right!After seeing all the rave about this place on City Search me and my boyfriend decided to check it out.
This place is the worst bar I've ever been to. First of all there is no parking, you can take your chances of parking at the gas station across the street and getting towed. Once inside it's so ugly and small it looks like someones old garage not anything like the picture. There is only one poo...
Read More On Citysearch luvreese 1/30/2007 - Great Service and Strong DrinksWhat can I say about this bar? The service is great, the drinks are very strong (consider it a warning), the people are friendly, the Karaoke is fun whether you sing or watch, and best of all, it's cheap for all you penny pinchers. I don't consider this a dive bar. It's a clean establishment, and the crowd is far from mean or crazy. The food looks very good, although I havent tried it, the peo...
Read More On Citysearch roleepolee 1/8/2007 - Really fun place!Down the street from where I used to work, the Backstage is a haven for studio crews and visual effects artists alike. Their food is decent and their karaoke stage features both local and imported inebriated girls singing the same 9 songs you've already grown sick of. But since their drinks are strong, you won't notice. I came here with a bunch of coworkers to celebrate the completion of a film a...
Read More On Citysearch dmenkes 11/21/2006 - Great staff and atmosphere!This place is just fun- we had a big (40+) party here and they were accomadating and very nice. Karaoke was great, drinks were awesome and the food was top notch (which surprised me!) All around, a great time and I would definitely go back.
Read More On Citysearch smooph 11/15/2006 - A Never-Fail Great TimeThis is definitely one of my favorite bars in all of LA. I found it on citysearch, and wasn't disappointed. I've been here frequently, and always have a blast. Even if you aren't brave enough to sing karaoke yourself, it's just as fun to watch others sing. I had my birthday party here and attended someone else's going away party, and they are very accomodating to parties and large groups (plus t...
Read More On Citysearch feldypants 10/23/2006 - I'll give it another tryHad a bad experience my first time at Backstage, but manager made up for it. He graciously and generously made it worth my time to give this place a 2nd try and even offered an explanation as to why my friends and I experienced what we did. Gotta respect that. I was impressed enough to raise my citysearch rating.
Original Message -
I read all the positive reviews on this site about Backstage,...
Read More On Citysearch mskitty3132 10/18/2006 - the perfect antidote for lame busby'sone of my coworkers is a triathlete and we went to backstage for a drink after work. he had a 90 mile training ride the next morning, so of course i got him loaded on irish car bombs and he was cursing me the entire next day...good times.
anyway, backstage is one of my favorite places to go. everyone kicks back and you can pretty much start a conversation with anyone. i'm too much of a chic...
Read More On Citysearch wingage 9/19/2006 - Karaoke gone wildI found this place with some friends of mine while searching citysearch. I love karaoke but am a little nervous about singing. I have to say.... Backstage karaoke is a show! Everyone is so into the singing and the KJ Shane guy was a sweetheart. He helped me pic a song and the when I was scared he cheered me on and danced with me. My friends and I are still talking about how much fun we had....
Read More On Citysearch raragirl 7/17/2006 - Best Karoke Ever!At first the bar seems like your average frat boy hang out, but when you sit down and watch the flurry of singers belt their guts out, you see that this bar has that special something. In the early hours (9pm) it seemed that the mic was dominated by "regulars" which was good, because it seemed to get things rolling. As 10pm came the fun really started to happen. Lots of people poured in to get...
Read More On Citysearch weberjam37 7/11/2006 - Amazing people/atmosphereWe went on a karaoke night (Saturday). They have an awesome crowd. Really diverse, all ages, everyone was really friendly and gave generous applause. The waitresses were sweet and conscientious, and the drinks were pretty inexpensive. The atmosphere was perfect. Everyone was singing and dancing and it was just an amazing night. I'm sure a good number of the singers were regulars, and would love t...
Read More On Citysearch jade1598 6/18/2006 - Our new Favorite place!!!!Although LA has many bars to choose from everytime my friends and I want to go out we can never all agree on a place....until now. BACKSTAGE RULES!!! We had so much fun. It's not a meat market like most bars, we drank and ate and our bill was so cheap. The food was sooooooo good one of my friend's wanted to marry the chef! The drinks were so strong and unique I had shots I didn't know existed. I'...
Read More On Citysearch drunk777 5/23/2006 - The Backstage Is Truly The Best DiveI went with a group of friends & we were more than happy! The drinks were cheap, the vibe was laid back & real & the food...was better than any restaurant in los angeles. We shared the mac and cheese, skirt steak, Cheese burger & Chicken fingers----WE WILL ALL BE BACK!!!! The entire staff was girls & they are hot
Read More On Citysearch luvtogoout 5/23/2006 - Thanks, BackstageI had my birthday at the Backstage a few weeks ago and had a really great time. The place was busy, but we were treated really well. Free shots for the whole party and great food made it even better. I even tried karaoke (never had the nerve before) and loved it. Everyone there was cheery and the whole place felt like a party. I couldn't believe it when closing time rolled around. We'll definit...
Read More On Citysearch drivingsouth 5/11/2006 - Great Drinks, Horrible Karaoke DJ!The drinks, like everyone says...are strong. You really get your money's worth. The food too was good although I've only had one dish.
The karaoke on the other hand was a big disappointment. The song book was extensive but the DJ takes your selection and decides if he wants to hear it or not. So basically, you could be sitting there for hours waiting for your song to come on...and it might n...
Read More On Citysearch dupar 5/7/2006 - The Backstage saved the day!After another karaoke bar screwed us over, The Backstage accepted a super last-minute reservation for my friend's surprise birthday party. The owner called me personally to set everything up and he was incredibly nice and helpful. On the night of the party, everything went fabulously well. He had reserved the firepit corner nook for us, which was perfect. Our waitress was very friendly and su...
Read More On Citysearch staceyharo 4/30/2006 - Champange?This is my favorite bar EVER! I would however love it if they served champagne (cheap bottles or splits). Just a suggestion...
Read More On Citysearch talulausc 3/10/2006 - The Hottest Spot on The WestsideThis gem of a bar in Culver City is the hottest spot going. The new owner has really turned this place around. This is the best dive bar this side of the Mississippi. The food is simply amazing, everything on the menu is top notch. You may think the food prices look at little high for Bar food, but this ain't bar food. Try anything on that menu and you will not be disappointed. All of the b...
Read More On Citysearch klitorislove 2/6/2006 - WHAT A GREAT TIME!Went to the Backstage bar with some friends for the first time. Kareoke was awesome and their burger alone is worth the drive. We were a small group and the place was packed with party people. Chani is HOT! and she makes the best margueritas. Service was great and friendly. Our girls loved Josh's scooby snacks. Their drinks are cheap and if you don't know what you want, trust the bartenders! We h...
Read More On Citysearch markcote 2/1/2006 - Great Food , good time but bring CASH !!!Went on a Karaoke friday and had fun. THe food was awesome. When it's busy it's hard to get a drink fast.. the bar setup isn't very efficient and the bartenders have to run up and down the bar to get your order and there is only 1 register so it cuts down on their speed. They also don't seem to be having fun cause none of them are smiling. Our speed savior ( we like our booze fast )was a cash ...
Read More On Citysearch swoes 1/22/2006 - Best Westside Dive Bar!What can I say - cheap drinks, friendly staff and with a retro atmosphere, Backstage is the place to be if you want to kick back and throw down a few with the boys. It can get a bit loud if you go on Thurs - Sat b/c of the karaoke nights - but that just adds to the entertainment. Be wary of table service as they have no waitress - bartenders do double the work, so be kind and just order at the ...
Read More On Citysearch jinro 12/15/2005 - A good timeWe had a birthday party for my best friend here and had a crazy time. The folks who worked there made sure we were totally taken care of. Karaoke was relaxed and fun. During one song, the stage/dancefloor filled up with people from the audience, dancing and having a good time. The drinks were good and the vibe was friendly. I recommend this place and will definitely be back. Give me another chees...
Read More On Citysearch zoom706 11/21/2005 - Love it.Friends of mine really like this place, so we decided to give it a try. It's low key from the outside, but inside it was like going back in time. Warm and cozy, in an old school way. Lots of dark wood and a fire pit(!) Drinks are generous,prices low and the vibe is very relaxed and the food is shockingly good. Karaoke was also very low key and fun. The singers who were there the night we were the...
Read More On Citysearch flipflop99 11/18/2005 - Something smells fishy?This place is cool, and I would not argue against the bar's #1 rating as "best dive bar", but best singles scene in all of LA? Two "Best of" awards? The food is good, the Karaoke fun, but this internet trophy is an overkill. A savy associate of the bar might have flooded the polls. Yes, I am suggesting that the voting process is more flawed than a Kim Jong II popularity poll.
Read More On Citysearch curtisb8 11/17/2005 - We had a great time.I've been hearing a lot about this place, so three of us went last Saturday. We felt welcome and totally comfortable there, not always an easy thing for 3 females. The karaoke singers were surprisingly good, but when we gave it a try (after a few drinks) and were surprisingly bad, everyone gave us a big hand anyway. I really like the Backstage. It's what a bar should be.
Read More On Citysearch zazie 11/14/2005 - Maybe I went at a bad time?Went in there with my girlfriend for a drink on a Friday night. It was about 11PM and we were just getting back from hanging out with friends. We wanted to sit at a table, but instead of ordering a drink at the bar and then sitting down (rude to tip the bartender and sit at a waitresses table), we decided to sit down at an open table, and let the waitress take our order (and tip). After waitin...
Read More On Citysearch tc535i 11/8/2005 - Search No MoreSearch no more! This is the place you'll soon call home! It has everything anyone could want in one location. Great atmosphere, beautiful bartenders and amazing food all at reasonable prices. Friday and Saturday night Karaoke the crowd really shows their true talents. Some can hold a tune and those who can't, no one cares. It's all about having a good time. The owner, Ben, is the most personable ...
Read More On Citysearch invstnme 10/5/2005 - Who knew I'd have so much fun...A friend of mine who lives out on the Westside invited me to dinner and afterwards we stopped by this place and I had a blast! They had friendly service. The locals were . friendly. All this and I got to sing. The karaoke there is awesome. KJ-Shane knows how to work a crowd and is quite an entertainer himself! If you have ever been intimidated by karaoke before, then this is where you should ...
Read More On Citysearch lanative70 10/5/2005 - Absolutely DeliciousWe stopped in here for a few drinks, not realizing they had a kitchen. We got the ribs and some apps. We were so surprised at how great everything was. We had dinner by the fireplace and hung out for a few hours. I've been back for lunch a few times already. Not just the best bar food, but the best lunch in Culver City.
Read More On Citysearch bunnylove 10/5/2005 - Karaoke HeavenI stumbled into Backstage a few weeks ago with some friends because we heard about their new karaoke night. All I can say is wow! The drinks were very reasonable, the atmosphere was warm and inviting with a great lodgy look including a fireplace. The karaoke hosted by KJ Shane was awesome. He has an unbelievable book and an impressive sound system which includes wireless microphones. KJ Shane...
Read More On Citysearch singout 10/5/2005 - The Best Dive Bar in LA!I normally don't go to bars for food, but this bar has amazing garlic fries. The atmosphere is warm and casual, it is clean and the service is exceptional. Best yet, this gem is undiscovered so you can actually get a seat!
Read More On Citysearch sjanewest 10/4/2005 - Something For Everyone at BackstageFor a dive bar, Backstage brings a lot to the plate! Customers can enjoy darts, pool table and even a vintage Pac-Man arcade game (the kind where you can sit down to play and have somewhere to rest your drink!) The juke-box provides a wonderfully ecelctic soundtrack to any evening, with styles ranging from old-school rock to new-school rock. As Backstage is also a karaoke bar, the music selection...
Read More On Citysearch rocknrollblake 10/3/2005 - Crown of the World Dive Bar TourYou'll find karaoke jockeys, Sony kids, 'SC Alums and a warm staff. It's a dive with a heart, like you'll only find in LA. Grab a Fat Tire and some eats and talk nitty gritty Hollywood with the those working in the trenches. Great atmosphere and a down to earth vibe.
Read More On Citysearch njdlight 10/3/2005 - "The Best Dive Bar In The World"Their website exclaims it's "The Best Dive Bar in the World" and I would have to heartily agree. I am not a real dive bar kind of gal, but the comfortable, intimate, but very fun and friendly environment made the backstage the a great place to be! I've always wanted to see a fireplace in a bar before and the Backstage has it; definitely cozy! If you get hungry in the midst of your night of sip...
Read More On Citysearch cozycozybird 10/2/2005 - New Food to add to the Great Drinks!I pop into The Backstage from time to time. Last week I went in and was surprised to see a new menu. I looked toward the kitchen and sure enough, IT WAS OPEN! I ordered the Chicken Satay to start and was blown away. Then I had the Mac & Cheese as my main course, no joke, I have never had Mac & Cheese that was so good! The bar is still the same, great music, karoake, stiff drinks at good prices. T...
Read More On Citysearch ncreep24 9/28/2005 - The neighborhood bar I have been looking for!You know when you have found your spot. Immediately you feel at home, the bar stool fits and the bartender makes you feel like you've been a regular for years. That's exactly how I felt when I went to the Backstage for the first time. I love a good cozy, dark divebar where I can have a few drinks and talk with my buddies. The food is great and I do believe I had developed a serious addiction to t...
Read More On Citysearch missbeth 9/27/2005 - Old school - in a good wayThe Backstage is what you want in a bar. It has a welcoming way that you don't see much these days. You can imagine what it was like when people were decent to each other. It's a good break from the real world.
Read More On Citysearch buzz706 9/26/2005 - Karaoke rocks!A big group of us went to Backstage for the first time this last weekend. We searched online for karaoke places in the Los Angeles area, and ended up at the Backstage. I was truly impressed. The owner reserved our table for our birthday party right next to the karaoke stage, and came over to greet us personally. KJ Shane did a fantastic job. His song selection impressively comprehensive. I highly...
Read More On Citysearch desireetsai 9/26/2005 - Great neighborhood bar....An ecclectic mix of people, from all different walks of life converge at this neighborhood watering hole. The friendly staff keeps you coming back. Although it can get a little crowded on Friday nights, this doesn't prevent good service. And for all you aspiring singers, check out karaoke on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Read More On Citysearch bluetiki 9/21/2005 - champagne taste and a beer budgetRarely do you find a bar with such affordable drinks and a better selection of food. It's the kind of place you can quietly hang out, or make your presence known. A real "go at your own pace" bar.
Read More On Citysearch berko25 9/21/2005 - No More Bar Hopping For MeUsed to roam from place to place. No need too anymore. I found a home at the Backstage!!!! All kinds of people getting along in a real laid back, friendly atmosphere. My only regret is that your ratings only go up to "Highly Recommended" for both value and atmosphere! AND THOSE PRICES. I would return often even if it were not such a bargain.
Read More On Citysearch simmerjoe 9/21/2005 - Backstage ROCKS!The atmosphere is divey and down-to-earth, and despite it's proximity to Sony, it's one of the least pretentious, un-sceney bars I've been to in LA. Do not miss karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays--the regulars really belt it out and everyone else has a no-pressure blast! The firepit is fun and cozy, too, and there is almost always somewhere to sit.
Read More On Citysearch amiegleed 9/21/2005 - Bartenders point of viewI bartended for many years from top NYC night clubs, dive bars to restaurants. When I move to LA from NYC, I went on search for the ultimate bar to work at. I finally found it! I worked at Backstage 6 months and I love it... Ben is a great boss! He spends most of his time making the bar the best that it can be. He buys customers drinks, asks they're opinions and knows their name.. It's a great ...
Read More On Citysearch cc555 9/20/2005 - Great PartiesMy birthday party was the best at the Backstage! It was an awesome night. My friends and family had a great time and the staff was spectacular. The food was yummy and the KJ kept the party going. Great drinks, lots of laughs and lots of fun. Thanks so much. See you soon!
Read More On Citysearch baileyb 9/19/2005 - A diamond in the Culver City roughMotor and Culver has never been a hopping destination for nightlife for good reason. It has the feel of a neighborhood, a place where people actually live and work rather than a place where tourists and trendies come to visit. That's why Backstage is such a great place to check out. It is neither a fly by night attraction for hipsters in search of a glitzy pickup spot nor is it just a hole in the...
Read More On Citysearch jonesyrob 9/19/2005 - I Love This Place.The Backstage has a great, friendly vibe. The karaoke is killer.
My friends and I always feel comfortable and have tons of fun.
This is what a bar should be. It's my favorite.
Read More On Citysearch babycpr 9/19/2005 - cody marksIt really is the best damm dive bar in LA!
Read More On Citysearch cmarksdunkin 9/19/2005 - The Place For A Great TimeIf you are in the mood for fun, The Backstage Bar is the place to be. Its laid back, yet full of energy. The old- school style booths are inviting, but so is the dance floor, especially when your friends are singing along. The bartenders mix the best drinks, and the happy hour prices can't be beat. Whether your ready for a Bud Light, or Negro Modelo, shot of jager or Kettle One Martini, the drin...
Read More On Citysearch danielleelyse 9/19/2005 - a neighborhood barthe backstage has a chill, local, fun environment that makes you feel comfortable the minute you walk in. the bartenders are welcoming and pour a wicked drink. where else can you go, where they not only remember your name, but also remember your drink??? the prices rival the majority of los angeles bars with $3 beers. i love it. its like an extention of your home.
Read More On Citysearch janestoller 9/19/2005 - LOVE ITThe atmosphere is great! I'm getting drunk there again for sure.
Read More On Citysearch probarhopper 9/19/2005 - Still the best dive barThis place was and is the greatest dive bar in the LA area. Whether you want to get together with friends or co-workers, this is an excellent watering hole for having some beers, throwing some darts, and hitting on the cutie from the next cubicle. And that's what dive bars are all about.
Read More On Citysearch jimyd77 9/19/2005 - It Really Is The Best Dive Bar!This is a bar for people who know what a REAL bar is all about: low key lighting, great juke box friendly people and of course a great selection of drinks. Not only are the bar staff pretty, they can make a mean drink. It won't be too long before this place blows up, so become a regular before the lines get too long.
Read More On Citysearch goinawol 9/19/2005 - no attitude and fun every nightwith a great mix, every night at this casual bar that feels like a terrific club is fun. karoake night is a hoot, with a few great surprise guests, and other nights can be great for watching sports or just hanging out with the regulars, which seems to include everyone very quickly thanks to the friendly staff.
the burgers are the greatest, gaucamole, and fried onion !!!!
Read More On Citysearch ulyssesd 9/19/2005 - neighborhood barThe Best Bar Period. No lines, no door-guy with a list, no cover, no $25.00 valet parking, just the Best bar ever!!!!!!!!1
Read More On Citysearch radicle 9/19/2005 - What's with Backstage these days?Backstage used to be one of the most reliably friendly and laid back bars in L.A., but we went there on a recent Saturday night and found that in addition to the "regulars" there was now a much ruder, rougher element hanging out there. They seemed to be friends with the staff, based on the staff's indifference to these guys' abusive behavior. The place was packed, with no security guard or bou...
Read More On Citysearch ijustwanttodrinkinpeace 8/17/2005 - Used to be betterI started going to Backstage just before they switched out the old staff. Great dive bar (still is), but the drink prices are on par with any other bar. So don't go expecting to pay $3/drink. Now you're looking to spend $6/drink. The Karaoke there is pretty decent (Fri/Sat nights), and the DJ is pretty good about getting to everyone on the list. On the whole, its an alright place, but I do miss t...
Read More On Citysearch smee3469 6/29/2005 - I miss the old BackstageIt broke my heart when Backstage was sold to new owners in January.
The friendly bartenders who knew every customer and every drink by heart was promptly fired for a younger staff (even the sweetheart waitress at the grill was let go!). In addition to raising their prices from $3-4 a drink to $7-10, they also completely shrugged of their regulars.
I'd been a weekly (sometimes daily) partro...
Read More On Citysearch cocktail_kitten 6/3/2005
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