I recently visited Los Angeles and was told I should check out a Sunday night at the Belmont. So being that it was my last day in town and, as my LA friends call it, Sunday Funday, we went to the Belmont for drinks and karaoke. Looking back now, I should have stayed in my hotel, ordered room service and watched tv.\r
You can't deny that the place was hoppin, and it did have a fun vibe when we arrived, but getting a table was near to impossible. I went to the bar for drinks, but had to wait for the bartender to finish his lengthy conversation with a couple other patrons. While it appeared there were a few of us at the bar interested in spending money, he appeared more interested in shootin the bs. When I was finally able to get his attention by waving at him, he proceeded to make my drinks without even a hint of friendliness or customer service. Needless to say, his tip reflected that.\r
My friends and I stood on the patio, talking and hanging out, much like most of the staff. I was entertained when I saw one of the waitresses do two shots with a table. So far, the staff was having more fun than me.\r
I went to the bar again, and this time the female bartender helped me out. She was friendlier than her coworker. I tried to sign up for the karaoke, but was told that I would never get up unless I tipped the dj money. I dont like to be told I need to tip, so I decided against singing. (and probably lucky for the rest of the people in there)\r
On my way back out to the patio, I overheard two waitresses talking. One was telling the other how much she hates working there. The other agreed with her, saying she was also looking for another job. Oddly enough, one of the unhappy workers was the girl who did the shots on the patio.\r
We finished our drinks, and decided to leave. No prospect of ever getting a table, unhappy and unfriendly workers, and expensive karaoke just didn't seem like a good time that night.\r
So we left.\r
Next time I will try Happy Endings.
Pros: Fun vibe, attractive girls, strong drinks
Cons: lousy staff, made to feel like they're doing us a favor being there
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