John T.
Yelp
Boom! If you're reading this now, you're too late. Inglewood Lounge started off on the right foot and word of mouth/loyalty have only increased as the days have gone on. It really is as great as you've heard.
It's also as small as you've heard. The place is small and if you plan on coming on a peak day at a peak time, you, likely, won't get in. The powers that be aren't being rude; they're just adhering to the fire code. When it comes to the name/description, don't think 'lounge' as in dark nooks, fancy clothes and a scene. Think 'lounge' like 'I'm lounging at my buddy's place. He just happens to be an expert mixologist and a great cook. But, you know. We're chillin'.' It's that kind of lounge.
But if you come on an off night at an off time (and only with one other person; this space isn't good for groups), plan on having a fantastic experience. First off, the decor is '70s adjacent. I don't know what that means exactly; it just came to me. The vibe of the place reminds me of Bruno Mars' current musical identity. I think that makes sense. Think about it. It's just cool. The wallpaper is cool. The tables and chairs are cool. The shape and design (repurposed) is cool. This is just a cool spot. Cool. Not trendy. Not sceney. Cool. And what do you do in cool places? You drink. And, even the drinking is cool at Inglewood Lounge. You could have beer or wine. Or you could dip into the curated mezcal and/or whiskey collection. OR you could lean in to the vibe of the lounge and leave your choice up to the bartender. That's what I did. Twice. And two times I tasted something out of this world. The bartender will ask you for a spirit ('gin' the first time, followed by 'rum'), a flavor profile ('subtle' and 'sweet') and a POV ('new' and 'classic'). That's it. Just sit back and wait for something crazy good. Now do you understand why this is a small place? Such a cocktail program isn't scaleable. These drinks take a long time because they are particular to you. Y'see? Good. I knew you'd get it. Before you take a sip of the beautiful cocktail in front of you, take some time to look at the glassware. Both drinks were served in unique and appropriate glassware. It's the details. They matter.
If you must have some food in your belly (unique drinks and good conversation isn't enough?), IL has you covered. I wanted to dive face first into the poutine but rouxs are never gluten-free friendly so, no. Don't cry for me, though. The carnitas tacos are truth. At $7 for 3, these tacos are packed with flavor (seasoned meat, pickled red cabbage and salsa verde). I almost ordered another 3 but I kept my inner fattie in check. I've heard good things about the s'mores waffle (because, how could I not?) but I didn't feel like torturing myself with look don't touch.
I couldn't have been happier with my experience at IL. Again, even when I happened in on it a few weeks ago, it was already straining at the seams. By now, it's got to be ass-to-elbows every night. If by some chance I happen to catch them on a slow night, I'll call a rideshare and let the bartender take me on a SPIRITual journey I'll be sure to remember for years. If you come in respecting what IL is, you'll love it. Guaranteed.