Sassafras Saloon

I think Sassafras is one of the coolest bars in L.A. I would describe it as a cross between the Edison and Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland. Above the bar, bottles of wine (or other liquid) slowly orbit overhead on a conveyor system.

The band plays not on a stage, but on a second-story balcony overlooking the bar. To your left is a faux exterior wall, giving the feel that you are not actually inside a building in Hollywood, but outside a Southern cottage (which my friend Mary calls “Grandmother’s House” and contains parts from an actual historic town house in Savannah.)

In the back room, dancers do Balboa or the occasional Swingout when space allows. Presiding over all of this is a giant stuffed bear…

They haven’t had Swing dancing here in a while, unfortunately.

A couple notes: parking is either valet or difficult-to-find street parking. I usually can find something within a two-block radius. Area is a bit sketchy so it might be a good idea to get another dancer to walk you to your car when it’s over.

Also, it can be really, really crowded here, mostly with non-dancers. If you don’t like dancing in confined spaces, this place is not for you. There are usually people to dance with but this is not primarily a Swing dance venue, so no guarantees. Bring your own partner if you want to be sure of a dance. Please support Swing night and the band by
purchasing food or drink. – Brian

p.s. I tried to be a good patron and buy a non-alcoholic drink (as I was about to drive home) to support the venue and band. However, the bartender wouldn’t take my money, since it was non-alcoholic! I left a big tip, but the venue will not see any of that. So, if you want to support Swing night at this venue, buy food or an alcoholic drink earlier in the evening.