The Novo

One of my favorite venues to watch a live concert and tonight was no exception. J Boog and Arise Roots were the bill tonight. Both tore the house down and the fans were having an amazing time, so many dancing smiling faces throughout the show. I will definitely be back real soon.

Great little venue. Plenty of parking at LA Live (usu. ~$40). Plenty of food nearby for before shows. Saw Dying Fetus and the sound was great. There's not a bad view in the house. The expansive bar with like 12-15 bartenders allows the lines to diminish quickly in-between performances. Bathrooms were clean, the floor wasn't sticky; truly a well-run venue.

Best club venue I've ever been to. Crowd control strategy is on point! Large bar to service people quick! Amazing staff and security are immaculate!

Went with my buddy Travis to see the dead South and the builder and The butchers. It was a fantastic show. We caught the pick from Scotty right at the end of the show which made it even better. The drinks were more expensive than your mama. Other than that it was a great show. The venue really had everything organized and ready to go. Everything seemed to go off without a hitch except for one thing... We got pit tickets and we still had to wait because one of their scanning machines didn't work so even though we were the second ones in line we ended up being behind like 50 different people.

Great venue and Jackie with security is a gem 💎... She is helpful and friendly... Give that girl a raise! The security guards in front of the pit were loud talking to each other, a bit inconsiderate of the fans in the front. Bartenders were gold 🥇... Super attentive and efficient.

Fixins; Soulfood Restaurant. Food is amazing, the atmosphere was very enjoyable 😉

The venue was great! Ukrainian rock band with 30 years of anniversary on stage! The food there was only finger picked and overpriced, but in overall, great atmosphere

The only good thing about this venue is the amount of bartenders they have to employ to make the experience bearable for concert goers. The weird seats above create a weird cave like feeling that blocks a lot of the sound. When you enter it is so dark and there are barriers set up you can't see and it's a big trip hazard. How do you get to the pit area when all tickets are GA? But you still get blocked. Hard to see anything if standing in the levels behind. Parking is ridiculous is something else is going on at la live. Make sure you plan accordingly.

Excellent live music venue. Easy in and out from the parking, very friendly staff, and very good sound. My first show there was to see Amigo the Devil, and it couldn't have been any better, venue-wise.

Went to the Qveen Herby show on Halloween and had a fantastic time. The line was well organized though signage would have helped for us that had skip the line pass. We went to the pit and were against the stage. From looking around you corks have a great view anywhere. Bartenders super friendly and quick.

OPEN FOR LOGISTICAL REPORT! PARKING Super easy. Lots of options in the area. Recommend "ParkWhiz" app to find cheap parking nearby. Within half a mile is pretty safe to walk from. ENTRY A quick walk thru a metal detector, scan your tickets and you're in! THE INSIDE The bottom has 2 levels, pit and floor. Bathrooms to the left when you enter the stage area. It's very clean and nice inside. BAR SERVICE The bar is at the back and is cashless. The drinks come in reusable cups. Quick and easy. THE VIBE Depends on the artist. HOWS IT SOUND THO??? Pretty darn good! Def bring ear plugs holy crap!!! WOULD I GO AGAIN? Definitely! :)

I loved this venue. It was spacious and the layout was nice. Huge bar so lines aren't long and plenty of bathrooms to keep the line moving. We had pit tickets which were nice. I pretty much went def after the show. The music actually sounded so much better towards the back. Drink before you go. 2 beers and a Diet Coke were $45 the first time and my friend went up and ordered the same thing then it was $54. Weird. Anyway Awesome venue for music.

I've seen a few shows at The Novo (Joyner Lucas this week, Surfaces in the past) and really enjoy this venue. The seats are big and comfy, way better than other spots. If you sit in the balcony, which is my jam, there isn't a bad seat in the house. The staff here is always so nice and friendly, as well as helpful. I saw them helping people walking by to direct them to the slightly hidden entrance. It's labeled but because it just looks like another restaurant, not some big concert venue, it's easy to miss. Because The Novo is at LA Live, it makes your whole night easy as heck. Parking is right below the theater in the garage. You literally get off the elevator and enter across the walkway. There's no more convenient concert venue in LA, that's for certain. Plus, so many tasty restaurants you can dine at prior of after. Katsuya and Fixins are my two personal faves at LA Live. Sound is always great here, no issues at all. Plus clear screens for viewing even more closely what's going on on the stage. Overall, seeing shows at The Novo is a cinch and I'm here for it!

Great place for smaller concerts/shows with great views no matter the section you're in. The place is located up the escalators, where you'll go through security check-in. The line usually moves fast and without any issues. Clear bag or small purse allowed. Great beer/ drinks selections and some snack bites food options available (chips, pretzel, chicken bites). One awesome feature is that they have cups that are reusable/recyclable. The restrooms are plentiful and clean, and the staff, for the most part, were all nice and friendly.

PEACOCK PLAZA's BEST VENUE! I've had the pleasure of visiting The Novo on an annual basis for Anime Expo events and concerts. I'm fortunate to say that they do a wonderful job hosting a variety of events! The staff makes us feel very safe and secure. There's a bag check, scanners, and many security members. All the staff are pretty friendly and welcoming, I have no complaints! The Novo is known for its trendy vibes which work really well. The bar on the main level is really cool and there's easy access to restrooms. If you're here for a concert, I'd recommend going down to the pit rather than upstairs as your can't really dance around up there or else you'll be blocking someone's view. I recently went to a panel/performance a few days ago and the screens are huge, modern and perfect for AX. Mori Calliope performed and all attendees had an excellent view of the action! I'll definitely continue to return. The Novo is near many eateries like Lazy Dog, Smash Burger and so much more!

I have been coming here forever since it use to be called " Club Nokia" it is pretty much the same setup and get down. I would say it's very average and I do not like the hassle getting out and the elevators only letting only around 3 or 4 people on, when it could be at least 8 capacity. I guess it was technical difficulties with their elevators because it took a while to get on and exit. However , I came last night for the Musiq Soulchild concert and I had a MARVELOUS TIME DARLINGGG. Haha the upper balcony tickets are a good view especially if you do not like the GA standing like myself. This is a pro of why I like the Novo, because the tickets are very reasonable and anywhere you sit is a good view. I never ordered food here but, I did get a Shirley temple from here and it was VERY delicious!! With extra ice. Overall, it is cool to get here early when the doors usually open 30 minutes prior to show. The restrooms were pretty dirty but it was cleaning staff in their fixing that issue. I do recommend here for good seating and good prices ! Easy parking under structure! Right next to all the major theatres and crypto. $40.00 for that parking but it's worth it and less hassle! -Marshay D.

When this was Club Nokia? I totally saw Boyz 2 Men here and had a blast. 2018. The audience was a sea of good people. And the gentlemen singing just melted our hearts.

This is one of my least like concert venues I have ever been to. Tini was of course absolutely beautiful and amazing in every way despite this. The angle of the seats is awful to see the whole stage and the tvs are way too small. There's basically not even a point to having any tvs. tini tini tini

My experience at The Novo was definitely one to remember. To start off, what a venue. It is one of the nicest and cleanest as well as classiest venues I have ever been to. The lighting inside plus the overall design of everything looks really sleek and fitting for the style of the Novo. Upon arrival, we quickly realized there is a very limited parking situation so we parked directly across the street for 30$. Not bad I suppose. We were not in the mood to drive around and look because of the rain. Walking to the venue wasn't so bad either, it's very close by and should take no longer than five minutes. We didn't even have to wait in a line or anything either. As soon as we got to the entrance, we went through security and were inside immediately. Now I do want to say that the workers were very helpful since my friend came with me and he has a broken ankle. They accommodated us quite well with little to no issues. The sound system was also great and let us hear everything perfectly. Nothing sounded distorted or too loud. We were sitting in the upper balcony where we still had a decent view of the stage and performers. I liked it a lot although next time I will definitely get in the pit. Another huge plus at least to me, was that the restrooms were really clean! They also smelled nice which was pleasant. Overall, a great experience at the Novo and I look forward to the next time I come here and see a show.

I went to see the Neo-Soul singer "Music Soulchild" in concert at the Novo theatre and it was nice. I have not seen a concert here in years, but I am glad I came. The service was good as usual, however, I did not buy any food there. The only thing, I did not like was the entering and exiting of the building it was chaotic. Every seat and standing area has a great view. Plenty of bars on each level and restrooms. Adjacent to several eateries at LA Live.

The club was very fun and I really recommend it, but if you get a bartender call Dean (in his 50s or so) make sure not to tip as this child was very mean and disrespectful. Hopefully he gets rid of as his costumer services is low tier

Came on Friday to see Eric Roberson and Raheem DeVaughn. Entry was smooth and organized. We purchased lounge access which was probably very unnecessary since I noticed people were just coming up the elevator to the lounge and didn't have to show proof of purchase . We could've saved that additional $50 per person. Besides that, the bartender in the lounge area had a heavy hand, and we appreciate her for that lol! The venue is nice, the bathrooms were clean, and we really enjoyed ourselves! Overall a great date night!

I attended the STAYC TeenFresh World Tour here. The location itself it's pretty okay. The staff came around the line outside pretty regularly and it seemed like they were organized. Some of the staff, though, had no idea what was going on but I think that's typical for any concert venue. Inside, there is a large mezzanine area and then the floor area. The floor is divided between the front pit and the back floor, divided via a step and railing. There is a bar in the back of the floor. Overall, as far as a GA concert goes, your view is definitely dependent on where you are in the floor and who you're behind. I think having the back floor be raised by a step is nice so that you have a chance for a good view. Overall, pretty average venue for a show.

I went there to see KISS OF LIFE. It was an amazing experience! The downside is that the lines were long, since we came early.

Never been here before, but recently went to Becky G's concert at The Novo. Decided to park at their structure out of convenience with accessibility and less walking since we arrived close to 8 pm. Parking was $40, but it was worth it for the convenience like I mentioned. They have restrooms located in the structure, near the elevators. They are small with a few stalls, but after reading some other reviews about restrooms inside The Novo, glad we didn't use them. Staff were nice enough. A smaller venue, had an intimate feel to it. More connection with the artist. Seat aisles are very cramped and small. It was dark, so I can't fully judge on interior, but I do agree with some others that it needs some TLC. Overall, had a blast seeing Becky G and Natti Natasha!

Thoroughly enjoyed this venue. We saw the Mowglis after the Roxy's roof caved in during the rain storms and they had to change venues last minute. The drinks were reasonably priced for a music venue and STRONG. Like holy smokes I can't feel my face strong. Thanks bartender. The upstairs seated area was so cool - only a few people up there and you're practically on top of the stage. We ubered so I don't know about parking, but there seemed to be a plethora of paid lots around. A good variety of restaurants next door so you can't grab a bite before going in and not have to worry about perfectly timing traffic. Great night. Can't wait to go back.

Intimate venues are the best when wanting to experience your most loved music artist(s) The Novo was a super chill and vibey type place but could definitely use a little interior TLC. The 4 comes from the ambiance inside the venue. We did a VIP experience. - balcony seating - private bar - private lounge seating area Hired staff was pleasant at the time of this event Parking was easy and accessible- park across from movie theater.

Experienced the novo twice and this place is pretty mediocre... The view is not good unless you're right up in the front. Balcony feels low when you're under it so it feels kind of claustrophobic. Line/security is SLOW. I've missed parts of openers even if I got there with ample time, it really was quite frustrating. Sound is not bad IMO, no complains but nothing to write home about It's a busy area downtown, I usually park at LA Live but sometimes if there's games/shows it's hard to find parking (bc staples/crypto, Microsoft/peacock is also here as are multiple restaurants and a regal theater ). If I'm lazy I'll just ride share but may walk a little to a major street before I call

What a great venue! I came here to see my friends band Sad Park play and was so excited to go to a new venue! We did the VIP tickets which was worth it. You get access to a lounge with your own private bar, nice bathrooms and seats! General admission is standing room only but it looked nice. The drink prices were reasonable and the couches in the lounge were so comfortable. I took off a star because the sound wasn't amazing. It seemed too loud and not in the good kind of way. My friends band still sounded amazing and I had such a good time! I would definitely come back and would always do VIP!

my first time here and i was thoroughly unimpressed. if you want to be up close you'll have to get pit tickets. the pit was hardly full, so why they didn't let more people in is beyond me. aside from that they nickel and dime you. early access comes in various forms by way of VIP and express lane access? unsure of how that works fully but was told i could pay $50 the day of the show to enter sooner. what is the point if you can't even use that time to get as close to the stage as possible? vips went first and then the other group. didn't get to explore the venue at all due to wanting to be as close as possible so i'd have an unobstructed view since i couldn't get a "pit" ticket. where i stood they'd allow people from the pit drunkenly push their way through to leave the pit area, despite it being roped off. lighting and fx were great. sound was great for the first two bands, but why when the headliners came on was it MUFFLED? i legit thought i had gone a bit hard of hearing because i couldn't understand why, or how, the sound could change THAT much. biggest issue for me was the over serving of already drunk jackasses. so many staggering and swaying dudes who didn't care if they were falling all over you. it's a beautiful venue otherwise.

The Novo has become a staple of LA Live, hosting shows from a variety of artists. Similar to that of The Anaheim HOB it sits on the second floor of a shopping center by the Peacock theater and Crypto Arena. They have a variety of offerings from cocktails to beer and even food. Surprisingly enough I find the pricing of the alcohol here to be relatively cheap (for a music venue) since beer offerings starts at around 10 dollars. I love their balcony because it's GA so you can choose wherever you'd like to sit (outside of the front of the balcony) and it has a great view of the stage wherever you sit. The whole venue sounds great too and they have speakers lined up all the way back to the bar on the floor so you can hear no matter where you're standing. I do understand due to fire codes they have to provide wristbands for the pit, but it is a bit of a bummer they don't really have the information listed anywhere, especially when buying tickets so that's my one issue. SHOW UP EARLY if you want to be in the pit and have floor tickets. Overall I do really like this venue and don't mind the drive to see bands here.

Okay, so let's talk about the Novo...! I have never been to this venue, so I was very excited to see one of my favorite artists here. I came to see my boy, The Kid Laroi! Venue: The venue was smaller than I imagined it to be; the Kid Laroi is one of the biggest artists right now, so I think he deserved a bigger place to perform at. There is a section close to the stage, then a section that is gated, then the bar in the back. The bathrooms were easily accessible, which is a plus. I couldn't take a good look at the upstairs section, but I think that would have been the best place to see the concert. Service: Absolutely terrible! The line wrapped around the building, and we waited for 20 minutes before being let in ( which is normal). When we got off the escalator near the doors, there were two lines, one for under 21 and over 21. I went to the over 21 lines, and she rejected my friend and I's ID; she was super rude about it too! I get that I look like a kid but cmon it's a real ID lol. The venue only gave wristbands to the first 150 people for the section near the stage. They gave us no information about this, we tried talking to the security guards, and they were strict about it. Later, I went to another security guard in the back, and he was rude too. Parking: we wanted to hop in line fast, so we parked in the first parking lot we saw across the street at a hotel. It was $30 and was convenient. The venue is in the heart of LA, so I'm sure parking would have been tricky otherwise. Drinks: Normal prices and not that packed because there was a wide range of ages attending this concert. Our bartender was super chill and understanding about the ID thing. She was annoyed that they rejected our IDs initially because it was an issue the whole night!

Great security staff, very helpful and professional. They all seem very focused and alert. I thought the venue was beautiful, attractive, well maintained, clean and overlain very nice! I really liked the drinks and the bartenders who made my drinks too. Sweet ladies! They were strong and worth the price. Most mixed drinks range from about $17-23. The air conditioning was blasting, which was great! It was not that hot inside the venue. I had a really great time at the concert. I'd totally come back to The Novo for future concerts.

Went for an eden concert. Definitely recommend EDEN. It's kind of inside the big mall & upstairs on the second floor. Very lit at night and bustling with activity from clubs to bright advertising lights to street dogs. The venue itself is a little more intimate vibe but spacious. AXS security was a bit aggressive esp with separate tickets ( balcony and GA floor were sold diff). The balcony is actually great, it's a theater like seating, but the front few rows are reserved for vip balcony- which I don't think its worth it too much for the extra price. U can still see your favorite artist and the music projects without the crowd. The TVs also show a stage preview but they aren't too good. The drinks are on the pricy side but the bartenders know what to give u. I asked for a fruity drink, it was a well something? It was good. The staff was super nice after the show, one of my friends got dizzy and they helped give water and supported down. Overall chill venue and I like the space as long as its for an artist you enjoy/kpop concert and not a rave

Love this place. The Novo has a lot L.A. energy with the Crypto Center across the way. The Lighting is on dark side. The concert hall is Just the right size to really appreciate the music. Capacity is 2,300. The sound system is pretty good. I think it sounds better the further you are away from the stage. I was up close to the stage listening to pop rock music and in my opinion way too much bass. The bar is beautiful. Three beers on tap. A pint of Stella was $17. Could have been colder. Plenty of mixed drinks. I saw on their menu the Novo serves sandwiches and other small bites. Typically no seating available on the first level. On the balcony there is seating where tickets usually cost more. Might be worth it. I'll definitely try the balcony next time. There is an elevator available for the upper level. Parking isn't cheap. I found a parking only 3 blocks away for $5 versus the $40 being charged at LA Live. Party on!

Creepy bathroom attendants taking phone videos of their male customers. Still awaiting a refund for what would have been an amazing concert without the perverted restroom attendant. This concert was 2 months ago and still, no resolution. Skip the NOVO and thank me later.

I've been to this Venue a few times through the years and it's a smaller venue but more intimate atmosphere. The venue is on the second level directly right across from the LA Live underground parking structure. This is one of the reason I love the parking for this venue or any LA Live's venue. Easy in and out access for parking. The Venue, on the lower level is usually GA for standing venue, and some VIP tables and chair depending on events. Top level is through the bar and lounge leads you to the seats on the Mezzanine level. Every seat has a great viewbof the stage. My last event here was The Women Who Rock Charity concert and had a great time! Overall, I find The Novo (used to be called Club Nokia) very convenient and a great smaller music venue. We usually grab dinner at the LA Live before a concert since parking is a a n all night fee.

The Novo is such a small intimate venue that hosts many different events, concerts, parties, etc. Its located in the heart of Los Angeles at LA Live. If you get overwhelmed with very massive arenas, then you should definitely check out The Novo. Inside The Novo, there's a big beautiful bar with great service. They offer different types of seating throughout. If you like to stand, they have an area for that; if you want to sit cabaret-style, they have a space for that, if you want traditional theatre seating, they have a space for that, and if you just want to hang out by the bar, you may do so as well. For the specific event that I attended, the general admission area was perfect! We were right in front of the stage, and we were able to snag a drink table. I was worried my legs would give out for standing too long, but they didn't! I was able to dance and drink and be close to the performers. It was great! I'm looking forward to attending future events at The Novo.

Formerly Club Nokia, I didn't realize this when I plugged in the addy on Google Maps. Been here in the past for a concert and being a smaller venue on a 2nd floor, not a bad view if you're standing in the back. There were several events happening at nearby Crypto Arena and the MS Theatre. Note: Parking in this area is approximately $30. There are a few restaurants nearby if you need to grab a bite beforehand.

I believe this used to be Club Nokia back in the day, which means the last time I was here was in 2013 to see The Specials perform. I remember we watched from the floor and it was a fun time. Recently visited the Novo due to a last minute venue change for the electronic duo, The Blaze. We sat up in the seats this time and had a clear view of the stage, but for me the vibe was off. It's a smaller venue and it feels cramped? The general admission floor area isn't as big as other places I've been to and the seats in the stand are very comfortable but the view feels like we're on top of the stage a little bit. The staff were all very nice and efficient and that's why I gave them three stars. Again, set-up feels weird to me, but it's definitely a popular venue for smaller shows. We showed up later in the evening and parked in Garage G for L.A. Live and crossed the street. Since we got there at 8:50 and left before 10:50, we only paid $10 to park at the end of the night and at a machine.

Intimate concert venue located in the crypto.com arena (formerly known as the Staples Center). Came here with a friend to see The Band Camino on a Friday evening and we got tickets for the balcony via Ticketmaster. Note that you have to go up the escalators to go inside. Paid parking is available in the venue, or you can try your luck with metered street parking if you're feeling lucky. If you get a balcony seat, it's free for all seating up until the first 4 or so rows at the front, as that's reserved for the VIP box area. You can take elevators up or there's also stairs. Bathrooms are available at both levels. Proof of Covid vaccination is required. Credit cards are accepted. They do have bar areas that serve hard seltzers and beers. The acoustics were nice, although at certain points in the performance, it felt like the balcony was shaking due to the crowd. Overall, it's a fairly small venue but I would still recommend getting there early to nab good spots. Enjoy!

The novo is one of the worst venues in LA. The floor plan is very inconvenient because of how they have a pit area and what is considered general admission. If you are stuck in the back of general admission you can barely see and it is in an awkward layout because you are on top of the bar area, merch, and restrooms. plus the upper area also acts as a hanging obstruction blocking many peoples view. i would avoid venues that have this floor plan.

Soo great getting lung cancer from secondhand smoke in this venue from the dozens of people smoking inside with no enforcement from the staff. The actual smoking patio was empty so I ironically went out on it for fresh air

Amazing went to see Xavi seating was ok not the best they could put more effort Into the seats

Other than the odd entry thing they have going on it's a cozy, but not tiny venue to enjoy a concert.

I don't know who trains security to direct people by their hair, but that's really not cool. Overall, the security was horrible, and I ended up leaving due to feeling unsafe. They split me up from my group and had me go back to my car despite me following the posted dress code online. I had never been here before and it was really dark and I was grabbed multiple times by security who never said a word to me and was thrown back and knocked off balance when they moved me. Definitely definitely ruined the night. And wasn't worth the 40 buck parking.

First time at the venue, came to see Apashe. I actually really enjoyed the venue. It's small and intimate. We got pit tickets, so we were up close and personal, but they also allow you to go up to the mezzanine if you want there's a GA area up there as well, you just are allowed on top the leather seats area, which I guess is VIP? Anyway. It's a small venue, but there was plenty of space. There are three floors and each floor has bathrooms and there are also bars on each floor making it easy to get a drink. There also lounges and smoking areas in the upper floors. The sound was good, the staff was pretty chill. And the place looks really nice and its clean and not dingy. I would definitely go to another show here. Also its easily accessible by public transportation, you can take the metro to the Pico station and walk over in about 10 minutes.

Went here for a concert and it was a little bit confusing. The entrance was on the third floor but they don't have signs of who is performing at the novo or if you're on the right floor. I had to ask a few people waiting in line to see if this was the correct line to get into my concert. I bought tickets for general admission which was the top balcony area. Upon going inside when I was going to my seat where was an employee that said the front of the balcony was reserved for people who bought the VIP tickets and to sit anywhere pass a certain section. After finding my seat I decided to grab a beer to enjoy the band I am seeing. I checked online for their drink menu and decided to go with a mixed drink. I proceeded to the back of the balcony and asked the bartender if I could have this drink. They replied that they don't make that drink up here and it's in the VIP section down stairs. I got a little frustrated that a full bar on the balcony floor doesn't make the drink I want and that I have to go down to the first floor to get it. So I just ordered a beer and went back to my seat. Other than those few quirks I had a good night and enjoyed the concert and that's all that mattered.

I am writing a review for my experience on GA floor. This is probably one of my least favorite venues in LA. The sound is extremely poor and the tiered floor, which is divided into three sections due to the stairs, is a very weird set up. If you arrive late, you're stuck standing in the back by the bar, bathrooms (left), or merch tables (right). It's also very hard to see the stage due to the overhang ceiling. There are also barricades so no stage diving. Parking situation sucks, expect to pay $15-20 for nearby lots. Venue is located on the third floor.

I really liked this venue! I was in the far back and still had a good view of the stage. Staff was helpful and drinks were pricey, so plan accordingly. We had no issue finding parking and fortunately the line to enter moves pretty fast! Security was on it (you cannot bring in umbrellas). Bathrooms were clean and the interior was cute. I'd definitely return for another concert here

Have been at this venue twice in the past 4 months. First time was with my daughter when the Rock N Roll hall of fame induction ceremony was next door at Microsoft theater. We had VIP tickets which included dinner and drinks at the Novo before hand. Word to the wise, don't give Mary unlimited free drinks. (Just kiddin) Food was amazing, the time was GREAT, even met a few new good friends. All in all a great experience. Fast forward three months to February, Crypto had an event for Premium seat holders called "Showtime Lakers panel". Hosts included Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kurt Rambis, Byron Scott and Michael Cooper. Once again, free food and drinks galore. Once again, word to the wise.... :-) Two hours of questions and answers with these greats ended with a live auction of a jacket signed by all of them. You cannot put me in a bidding situation when I have had some drinks. My friends had to hold me back even when the price got way too high for what it was worth (Was Magic included with the Jacket?). Luckily, I was outbid at the last minute and had to bite my tongue after that. Back to the food---it was fabulous--first butler passed apps for a half hour, then a buffet of Mexican food. I ate too much, drank almost too much, and had way too much fun with my friends. Bonus! Laker Mardi Gras beads and a complimentary Showtime Lakers ball cap.

The Novo is a great little venue tucked away in LA Live. It being part of LA Live is really my only complaint about the venue to be honest. It's a pain to get to and it expensive to park there. The two times I have been here I have paid close to or as much to park as it was for my ticket. That's insane. But once you're inside, the venue is awesome. It's small and tough to find a bad spot. The floor is big so you can easily find a spot that isn't going to be cramped up next to someone else, and if you're more my style and prefer to sit down, the balcony is close enough to the stage that the view is great. And the seats are stacked enough that it's tough to have someone block your view. It's really exactly what I am looking for in a venue. Staff here is great. They're not in your face and let you enjoy your time/the show. They'll help you get to your seat (if you have one) and then just leave you alone. The bartenders are friendly and don't leave you waiting around a long time. Once again, they get you in and on your way quickly. Said drinks are...as you would expect. Fine but definitely overpriced. But everyone knows that going to any concert anywhere. So, in the end, even though The Novo is located at one of the places in Los Angeles I try to avoid as much as possible, it's ability to get some great acts at affordable ticket prices and offer a fantastic atmosphere to enjoy some live music definitely still keeps it on my list of venues to go to.

The Novo by Microsoft, formerly known as Club Nokia, is a medium size indoor club located at L.A. Live in downtown, and its entrance is on figueroa street unlike GPS coordinates on olympic blvd. Parking is pricey in downtown and there's no exception here, $10 for the first 2 hours, then $10 for each additional half hour, usually $30 maximum.

Pros Good show.. Cons Waiting for too long to see the final performance... but was surprised by the special guest.. Tix were only $35 for the front Not bad

My girlfriend and I went to the Pharcyde, Souls of Mischief, and Alkaholiks concert, and the entire performance was fantastic. The venue was well-maintained, and the bartenders provided excellent service. We decided to leave during the event while Pharcyde was on stage to use the restroom. As I stood at the first stall, I noticed a mobile phone camera positioned between the partition and the wall. I gently pushed the phone with my finger and waited for the occupant of the stall to exit. Upon his exit, I recognized that he was wearing a Novo shirt, indicating that he was likely an employee. I confronted him, questioning his actions of recording while I was using the restroom. He tried to explain that his phone wasn't charged, but I was deeply disturbed by the invasion of my privacy. Our conversation escalated into a heated argument. To avoid further conflict, my girlfriend intervened and guided me out of the venue. After the incident, I contacted the Novo to report the situation, but I am still awaiting a response. It's important to share this experience as a cautionary tale. Individuals affiliated with the venue might be engaging in inappropriate recording within the restroom. This unfortunate incident has left me unwilling to attend any future events at this venue, especially if such behavior is tolerated among their staff. I sincerely hope that the person involved gets the necessary support and assistance they require. This serves as a reminder to everyone to stay vigilant about their surroundings, particularly in locations like restrooms, where privacy should be respected.

I came here only once back when it was called Club Nokia. This was my very first concert and I was not familiar with what GA or the pit stood for. We came to see Emeli Sande. She was a beautiful singer. We had to stand up the whole show, because of the type of tickets I bought. We really enjoyed the show she was an amazing artist. The people get really tight in the crowd and you have to pay for parking.

A souless venue charging all of the high prices you would expect for a club show in Los Angeles with none of the charm or authenticity. Besides a wretched beer selection consisting of canned AnBev offerings at 20 dollars a pop, The Novo features an entryway that smells like methane exhaust and overly bright monitors throughout the concert hall that ruin whatever ambiance there was once the lights dim and the show begins. The greatest sin however is the palty number of people limited to be in "the pit". For the pedestrian so called punk band The Frights, only the first 400 entries were given a wristband to be in the pit. I have never seen a venue neuter a show like that before the first note was played. If I ever see another show here it'll be too soon. The two stars is solely for being located around convenient parking