El Rey Theater was a total bust! Came to see Protoje a reggae artist. I had high hopes for this venue as im usually into smaller more intimate places. Concert was supposed to start at 9 with entrance entry being at 8pm. Long wait time for security to check everyone. This was the most intense security check ever. Like going through the TSA lol. They had so many rules. One being no gum. I was like seriously so not cool as I had a bunch of packs in my purse. Just had hubby take my purse back to car as I didn't want to throw away anything. Also hated that they had no smoking area for ganja as other venues do when hosting reggae gigs. We finally make it in the venue. Decided to grab a few brews. For 2 tall modelo cans 18 bucks a pop. That's the most expensive beer I've ever paid for from a can. So 40.41 for 2 beers. Absolute freaking hwy robbery. Didn't go back as at that price I could buy a 24 pack at the store lol. Plus the dude working wasn't friendly at all. On to the inside of the venue. Concert was supposed to start at 9pm. They did have a DJ but he really didn't hype us up before the main event. Didn't like the setup not inviting at all. Small dance floor & it got way too cramped. Unfortunately the show didn't end up starting until 9:35 & was done around 11.20. Love Protoje and all the music was awesome but this was one of the worst concerts. Felt very ripped off. Most definitely won't be returning or recommending. Hard pass! read more

I came here recently for the Junny concert that my friend wanted to attend! I love that the venue is intimate where it feels like a private party with the performer. Didn't get any drinks, but the ID check to get the 21+ drink wristband was efficient and quick since it was done outside the venue while we were waiting for security check. Venue was strict on the GA standing area, which I'm super grateful for since I'm always worried for the safety of GA type of events. Parking is usually the biggest issue when it comes to most things in Los Angeles. We didn't come early, so we weren't able to find decent street parking. We went to two of the listed parking lot on their website: one was closed and the one other didn't allow 30+ minutes parking. We ended up parking at the structure connected with multiple restaurants: Chipotle, Einstein Bros. The parking was straight forward for the most part. Scan QR code and follow the directions. It was reasonably priced as well, you just have to remember to end the parking time so you won't overcharged. read more

Can't believe my last review of El Rey was 12 years ago! Almost everything is the same at El Rey as I remember it then. At that time we watched LIGHTS Siberia Acoustic concert and the set up was- partial seating and standing room, on the main floor, balcony was closed. Last night, 2/21/2026 we watched LIGHTS- Come get your girl (A6 Extended) and the set up was all standing room only on the main floor with option to buy tickets (2, or 4 person table) for reserved vip seating up stairs. This vip seating is a separate purchase from concert tickets but came with a few extra perks- you don't have to sweat your arrival time, and/or wait in the long GA line, you walk right in. Once upstairs, you check in and table is assigned. We got lucky, our table was front and center. We were able to leave to grab food next door at El Cartel and bring it up to our table to eat. A host at El Rey will give you a separate bracelet for this when you are ready to exit, inked with "El Cartel". Lastly, there's a separate bar upstairs and at least 3 smaller lounges with comfy couches, 2 of 3 these spots face the stage. Thank you El Rey! Good times had as always. read more

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Ringo Starr from The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, Billy Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Lana Del Rey.... What do all these legendary artists have in common? They have ALL played in the El Rey Theater !! Yes! This small, intimate venue is 1 of Los Angeles' longest standing small entertainment housing establishments for entertainers since the Key Club and House of Blues Hollywood days and more! Hell...I even helped promote a wrestling event here back in the days, which featured wrestlers who are famous nowadays! This spot has been a great physical platform for artists, entertainers, etc. through the years with its nice acoustics, cool architecture, etc. Hopefully, it will continue to thrive because I hate seeing nice oldschool venues like this eventually shut down and turned into apartments or something. read more

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I've now seen 2 comedy show and 2 concerts here, fancying myself an El Rey expert and also, fan. The staff is always better than other venues, the parking situation is better, VIP is a steal for what it offers, the bathrooms and bars never get too wild ~ it's more my vibe than a huge stadium show. The aforementioned comedy shows were both Cry Later Shows, seeing a bunch of great Asian comedians including a childhood hero Margaret Cho. For these comedy shows they set up seats on the main floor and you're offered an intimate viewing for your show. The seats are foldable so don't expect luxury, but when you come to a concert here, the seats are usually removed. Typically for concerts the GA is the entire main floor, no chairs except for ADA, so essentially is standing room only. I'm old and can't do that so thankfully they have a VIP Table option in their Balcony you can add on, usually for $150. This is what I've done for two concerts this year ~ Medium Build and B.o.B. celebrating the 15th anniversary of his banger album the Life of Bobby Ray. Both times the experience was exceptional. Tons of room, chill people around us, great views as although further than those standing below you, you get a nice clear view of the stage. Vibing out or chair dancing like myself, it's nice to have a table & chairs to relax out during the show. The upstairs bar is only open when things are very busy it seems, but the bar downstairs was perfectly fine for me. Never any lines and super fast to help you out, all the bartenders were very friendly. There's no bathroom upstairs, but the one downstairs is near the Entrance and has an attendant. It was never busy when I went which is always shocking at concerts for a girls' powder room! Be sure to bring some singles for the attendant. As my experience is from the VIP, I can only comment on that but I am obsessed with it. You can book a table for 2 or 4, but be sure to purchase this on TOP of the normal ticket price. It's an add on feature at El Rey. They have a parking lot designated for them which is $20 but I have always been able to find parking if I get there an hour before doors open. Obsessed with El Rey and their VIP Experiences~! I'm on top of their show calendar so am just waiting for the right artist to pull the finger on, then I'll be back~!!! El Rey Roars~!!! read more

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AMAZING LITTLE CONCERT THEATER! The decor, the vibes, the shows... ALL AMAZING! Security here is to be complimented at keeping the place safe during events. The service and drinks served here during concerts always allow for a great time! I saw a few artists perform here in the past and I look forward to seeing more in the future. This review is long over due but still deserves a 5 star review! read more

El Rey Theatre - Inside near bar. - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Came here to see Danity Kane. They were great with security. They check your bags, limit what you can bring in, have metal detectors, and pat downs. I also get nervous going to big events because you never know what can happen and I felt super safe and secure with all the extra measures they took to keep everyone safe. Amazing. They only had one type of gin so that was disappointing but thats OK for a small venue. The inside was beautiful. The red curtains and drapes with the chandeliers was very old Hollywood glamor. The bathrooms were super clean which was impressive for a concert venue. Will definitely be back read more

El Rey Theatre - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

The El Rey is one of my favorite music venues in LA because it's just the right size for a medium size show. The staff ran a smooth ID and security check. I also appreciate that the venue offers a variety of places to stand when you're in GA (I find it helpful being short) so that everyone can see at different levels even on the floor. The acoustics are pretty good and the lighting is always fun. Additional perk of this venue, there's usually plenty of street parking available. read more

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This theatre is cool & historic af. The bar is chill & the bartenders (women!!) are super super nice. I caught Lights here & it was such a vibe. Safe area, clean restrooms. read more

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I went to see Borns in concert at the El Rey Theater. It's a cute intimate theater for a concert. Love the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. There's two bars- one in the lobby and one on the inside. It's mostly standing room inside and some tables and seats on the second level. Parking- they have signs for concert parking in a nearby structure $20 read more

El Rey Theatre - Inside - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Great venue saw a few shows here, it's a really intimate setting as it's a smaller theater. The red curtains bring back old Hollywood vibes. There is a bag check and metal detector so venue feels secure. They also ID upfront while you're in line giving 21+ wristbands for efficiency. Standing room only so wear comfy shoes! AC works well as it was chilly when I got in as a early attendee. It filled up as the night went on and my T-shirt and shorts were acceptable to rising temperatue. No food or snacks available, but they have beverages: beer, cider and mixed drinks. It will set you back about $16-20. I feel the bar by the front entrance moved faster than the one in the back! read more

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The service, security and the venue is a gem. Parking in the Air Garage is a way to go. The sound ,light system, technicians are ace. The bar tenders hats off too. Great place to see a Live show! read more

El Rey Theatre - Durand Bernarr and Teedra Moses - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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We came to El Rey Theatre to see MARO & NASAYA last night and had a pleasant time! If you get there early, there is a taco place right next door where you can sit down and order some food while waiting to get in line/for doors to open. El Rey is a rather small but intimate standup venue (unless you are at the balcony where there are tables but the stage would in my opinion be a bit far from there). We got to the theater early to be in the very front and had time to order drinks at the bar, use the restrooms, and relax before the show started. The only downside to me was the strong air conditioning. It was quite chilly inside! read more

El Rey Theatre - Inside - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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It's been a LONG time since I've been to El Rey. I honestly can't even think of a time after 2013 (I'm dating myself, I know). I really enjoy this venue, specifically for the show I went to. It has a smaller vibe to it, yet it can hold a ton of people. I stood by the stairs and had a perfect view of the stage the whole night. My biggest issue here is the bathroom situation, or lack thereof. There were only three stalls I believe for the entire facility. I don't know if there were others and I missed it, but everyone kept going to the bathrooms right by the exit and entrance. Overall, this is a great place to see a favorite artist perform! read more

El Rey Theatre - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I hadnt been to this concert venue in a while even though I live fairly close. I won tickets for London based rapper Giggs from DOLA, so I ventured out this evening. Positives : Entry was quick, restroom was clean, and the show was not over sold . Negatives : Venue security was more concerned with protecting the 12 people in the VIP area instead of enforcing their own no smoking no vaping rule. I had to leave this show early because too many folks around me were smoking the nasty 'Larry David Schwag' ! When I got to my car, my clothes stunk of cigarettes- not good. I'm coming back in June for a paid show, so hopefully things will improve . read more

El Rey Theatre - Giggs Concert - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

El Rey is an iconic L.A. venue but it's not my favorite lol. If an artist is performing here, it usually means they're just starting out and this is either going to make or break their career. It's definitely, to me, a small/medium sized venue. The first time I came here was for Cafe Bleu's 10 year anniversary in 2006. I remember dancing with Greg Lee on the dance floor and it was a fun night. Recently I was here to see Joy Crookes perform to a sold out crowd and Urban Heat perform their first headliner tour. Parking is down the street at a parking structure on the south east corner of Cochran and Wilshire. Prices vary but last show was on a Saturday night and cost was $15. Inside, the layout is raised platforms on either side of the stage with a dance floor in the middle. If you're a fan, I'd suggest standing on the left side (facing the stage) up front as the view is clear and there's no obstructions if you're up front. I've also stood on the right side of the stage behind the handicap seating area and had a clear view of the stage with no issues. If your favorite new artist performs here then you REALLY need to support them! read more

El Rey Theatre - Urban Heat, Gvllows, July 27, 2024 - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Small yet beautiful venue at the most random industrial neighborhood in Los Angeles! I came to see the band LEISURE here, and it was my first time at this venue. So let's talk about the important highlights of this spot. PARKING You can pay for vallet, be sure to arrive early. There is nearby street parking if you lucky to find it (PLS BE AWARE OF THE PARKING SIGNS, so you don't get towed...), or you can take a risk and park at the Ralph's underground parking lot if you're gonna be out for a couple hrs. VENUE I recommend to come early as possible so you can find parking. You usually wait outside until the doors open. They will check bags and make you go through security detectors. The inside is GORGEOUS! They have an upstairs which is for VIP I believe, they had 2 bars, merch was in the back corner of the venue. Drinks are expensive as always. I wanted to drink and paid $19 for a bottled hard Kombucha. Prices seemed to range between $12-$25. They had trash cans to tell you what type of garbage of you can throw away. If you're on the floor, be sure to stay on the floor and not in the walkway or else security is gonna keep bugging you. Other than that, it was nice! read more

El Rey Theatre - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Nice intimate theatre which makes for a good view anywhere. its a small place but Sound system was better then expected. Bar option was decent, credit/electronic payment only. bathroom was clean. Easy to check in and get in. read more

El Rey Theatre - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Such a cool little venue! Watched Lainey Wilson there and it was one of the coolest experiences in my life. Had a nice bar! read more

El Rey Theatre - Lainey Wilson - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Great place - I always love catching a show here, however, they really need to be more clear on the parking situation. Followed signs that said "Parking for El Rey" only to find out after the show the garage was completely locked up for the rest of the weekend (??) Now I'm out not only on the money for parking but my car too. Not a word from the parking attendant or any posted signage regarding the hours/when it would be locked - would've been super helpful. read more

Large enough for just 771 attendees the El Rey still sounds great with all sorts of old school charm. Saw TV on the radio here 12/7/24 and aside from being forced to throw away a whole pack of gum because the theater is still carpeted everything was excellent from the band, crowd and staff. read more

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Recently saw a show here at the El Rey. I have to admit first time coming here and looking forward to hopefully come back. It's a great small venue with an interesting layout. Along the sides there is a slightly upper section with railing which is great because for once short girls can see and not be blocked ( why is it always by the tallest one in the room too). At that you are still close to the stage unlike VIP sections that are always furthest away but high. We had a little difficulty with our tickets showing up properly but the girl helped us get it straightened out pretty quickly. Also security was very nice. They have to keep people off this black line ( fire line) to keep the isle open. Someone was randomly bugging people before the show (he was obviously on something by the way he was acting) and security quickly and quietly took care of the situation without hardly anyone noticing. The only bummer here is there is the restroom incredibly only contains 3 stalls in the women's restroom so the line is always long while no line in the men's. Service was all super friendly. Parking wasn't too difficult as there was a lot clearly marked just down the street I believe it was on Coverdale ave just off Wilshire. Again it was clearly marked for El Rey venue parking. read more

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Intimate setting for any performance. Lainey Wilson rocked the place. Staff was awesome.

El Rey is LA MAGIC!!! BEST NYE EVERRRR!! I've had the opportunity to perform here a few times but this was my first time as a guest. And omg I'm obsessed. Nothing like bringing in the new year with Billie Joe Armstrong (swoon!!) *I didn't get there early, just a few songs before The Coverups came out and was still so close to the stage! *The floor isn't all the same level so if you wanna stand to the side you will get a raised view. *The venue was clean, effortlessly cool, and the perfect size to feel intimate but still hold a good 700 people. *I was wearing a faux fur coat, jumping up and down for hours, and got sweaty but nothing horrible - AC was the perfect temp. *There weren't ever long lines for the bathroom or bars - I was blown away by how stress free everything was. *At the bar, I got some Modelos and prices weren't bad at all. *Security and staff were all super friendly!! Had a blast chatting with them. *There is parking lot about a block away. There was a sign that said "El Rey Parking" that we saw off Wilshire that had plenty of spots and was $21 with Apple Pay. The only thing is they close the gates 30 minutes after the show ends so we weren't able to stay as long as we wanted to. El Rey - a place where you can literally run into rock stars and enjoy an A-list concert with a few hundred people. Seriously iconic! read more

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This was my first time here and it was real cool. I saw Leon Thomas and he was a Rockstar . I advise anyone who doesn't want to do standing room only to book a table in VIP upstairs. It gave us a perfect view of the stage. It was sexy, intimate and Trendy. read more

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LOVED the old converted theater and enjoyed the venue for live music. I had a few hazy IPAs - I think they were like $16.50 each! Whoa!!! Not a deal-breaker, however. El Rey gotta make a living too, lol. Fun place, parking nearby was pretty easy. Seemed like staff and security had a good handle on things, no drama when I visited. I will return! read more

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Enjoyed the show, live music is always a amazing experience, sound effects were good showmen ship Great atmosphere was down to earth read more

El Rey Theatre - Nice place to watch a Good Show, standing room mostly but I enjoyed being there I heard about it but now I've been here - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Bad staff, got kicked out for no reason. They're not educated enough to understand what's wrong and right.

Great venue, garbage staff especially security. I understand it could be rough working a face-to-face job, but as someone who's also in the field, if you can't handle your emotions and go on a power trip then start threatening kicking people out for having some fun, you're in the wrong profession. read more

Saw Bob Dylan here in 1997 and just recently returned for Duff McKagan. Great venue, awesome acoustics, and not a bad view in the house, standing or seated. read more

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The female bathroom situation is ridiculous. Two tall cans of michelob ultra are 39$. I get it, dodger stadium prices without the game. Here's the thing; two 12 ounce of 805 were 30 dollars!!!!!! 30 dollars!!!! No parking, no Bathroom, ridiculous prices. If you can avoid this venue, avoid it! read more

Went to an amazing show at the El Rey Theater made even better by the staff. From the entrance to the bar to the VIP area. Everyone single employee we met was friendly, helpful and went out of their way to make everyone feel welcome. All smaller venues should follow their lead because I would see any show at the El Rey. read more

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A nice and intimate venue that is good for catching a show. Parking is a little bit of a pain (as with most places), but they have it! Caught the MisterWives show about a week ago and enjoyed the layout of the venue. If you want drinks, check out the upstairs balcony since the main floor usually has a line. Also, definitely recommend pre-gaming at All Seasons Brewing Company about a 5 minute walk from here. Great selection of beers and they even have an awesome taco place inside called "Chicas Tacos" that' pretty good! read more

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This is an absolutely beautiful, intimate venue but I hate coming here. I'll start by saying I'm unsure if it's actual El Rey staff or an outsourced security company, but their security is the worst. Completely rude, power tripping, shouting-as-a-means-to-get-their-point-across folks that really sour an otherwise great experience. I recently attended a show at El Rey and the band hung back afterwards at their merch table, set up at the back corner near the bar. As soon as lights came on our came security (there was one lady in particular who would NOT let up) shouting at people to move, leave, I don't care where you go get out out out out of here. Didn't matter what you said she was not having any of it. Listen, I get it, people-facing jobs are rough and you wanna close up shop and get home asap but literally this was the most chill, friendly crowd ever. At one point once the show ended and the band was hanging out near the merch, the band stopped to ask their tour manager what the problem was, if they needed to leave too, that's how chaotic this ladies energy was. A lot of folks traveled a really long way to come to this show, some from out of the country (including the band themselves!!) and it was just an embarrassing experience. read more

Don't go here. Went to see Cuco and the Sinseers and my card got cloned. Card cloning machine let through security.

I have never been treated so poorly by security staff at a venue that touts their "inclusivity". My cousin who flew in from New York to see the Nicotine Dolls is an asthmatic and has life-threatening allergies. Going through the metal detector, they pulled both of us aside, took our packs of gum (we're almost 60 years old) and my cousin's Benadryl and asthma meds because they were in an unmarked medicine bottle (easier for her to carry around). They saw her EpiPen but confiscated her "drugs" even though the pills were marked with the brand names Primatene and Benadryl insignias. When we asked if she could keep them just in case she has a reaction, the security staff asked to see her Medication list from Walgreens in order to be allowed to keep them in her bag. THIS IS 100% AGAINST HIPPA AND ADA! There are much nicer and better-run music venues in L.A. to have to deal with incompetence and illegal questioning. Staff need better training and management should be ashamed. Music was great but one star for the uneducated and combative staff. read more

Great venue. Quite fancy looking but that's just the charm of it. Security did a great job letting people in and bartenders didn't drop a beat while making the cocktails and drinks. Excellent service. Would here again when in LA read more

El Rey Theatre - a crowd of people standing in a hall - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I came to el Rey for 3 shows prior to this review. I quite like el Rey- I've had a good experience every time. There is a good view no matter where you are. The lines are very quick. 2/3 times I found street parking for free (1 time I got dropped off by a friend). Merch is usually sold in-venue so you could also line up while still watching the show. Once they had a special like.. teachers appreciation month shot at the bar and that was delicious read more

Wow. Where do I begin? Outside, the security staff was more interested in playing on their phones than assisting with letting people know where to line up. If there was interaction, I noticed them being very dismissive and rude. Walking in you are met with a heavy smell of urine and mildew. Absolutely disgusting. The floors have stains and dirt from what look like decades of traffic and people. The velvet walls are caked with oils and dirt and I'm sure several other liquids that could make you ill. Seriously, this place needs a deep clean. The security staff is not only rude outside, but inside as well. Flashing their lights while walking through the crowd. There's a large walkway on the sides, why interrupt the fans enjoying the music? More playing on phones instead of keeping the venue safe. Maybe someone should pick up a mop... The only thing giving them 2 stars was their sound system. It was very crisp. I would say clean, but NOTHING in that place was clean. We won't be back. I suggest going somewhere else. read more

El Rey Theatre - The floor... - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Pretty chill, AC was blasting so I was happy I brought my jacket, music quality was alright, but $40 for a shock top and 805... that's so lame. No outside area to hangout. read more