The Dresden Restaurant

The cocktails were incredible and the service was nothing short of impeccable. Thank you Marm, the bar manager, for the best night ever! Ps: Get the mushroom app.

The service here is the worst. I go to the Dresden pretty frequently to see the live performances. If it weren’t for that, I’d stop patronizing the establishment. The waitstaff is extremely rude. That is if you even acknowledge you by the bar. I sat down with a group of friends and it was 40 mins before someone even came to take an order. They never even cleaned off the table. When an older woman came over she was really rude to us. If I could hub a half a star, I would. It’s not difficult to be nice to people who visit your business.

So I had seen Swingers years ago but had no idea this was featured in the movie. So my friend wanted a Swingers birthday night and we stopped here after dinner. Finding a seat was super tricky and we had no luck finding anything away from the bar. Our group mostly chose champagne with elderflower drinks.
Marty and Elaine were performing so we were definitely entertained. It wasn’t really my scene so we quickly left. But if you want to check out a location from a movie, this is your place.

Worst service ever.
1. I called and made a RSVP for the late night for this restaurant, mentioned it’s my boyfriend’s birthday and I asked if they have any complementary plate of desert or such with a candle. The person said no and asked me if I have a cake to bring, and I heard the people in the back were talking to her and said «actually we do have complementary ice cream», «we have candles too.» If you don’t know, you can check with higher people first BEFORE you say no.
2. I showed up and my boyfriend went to the rest room, so I told the manager guy that I made a RSVP and it’s my boyfriend’s birthday. At that time we were the only customers at the restaurants. He said «ok», and my reservation was in so I took that as the confirmation and thought it would be all set.
3. Other customers came in but still they were 2 parties including ourselves. We were the only couple who reserved for 2.
4. We ordered 2 entrees and drink. I guess the waitress was working at the bar section too, which was busy, so we were patience but it took us over 20 mins to get to have the first drink and order the meal.
5. We mentioned we would like to share both of our orders. Would have been nice if they could offer us to split each plate even by charging additional, but not only did they not do so, they didn’t even bring share plates so that I needed to ask for them which obviously took another 3 mins to bring. Finally «share plates» came in, that are just as big as our main plates, that do not fit in our table. If the waitress has a brain she could bring smaller plates to share?
6. Soon after we got meals, my drink was empty and so is his. The waitress was constantly at the bar and we had to wait for a while till we get her back, while the manager sat down in one of the tables having meal break. If the waitress doesn’t have enough time to check on the restaurant customers, maybe it’s wrong time for the manager to take a break? My boyfriend ordered coke but it ONLY got refilled once.
7. Here is the WORST part. 10mins after we were done with our meal, the waitress came to take away all the dishes. She looked at my boyfriend and said, «so it’s your birthday right?» EXCUSE ME? THAT WAS A SURPRISE!!! The whole point of me making a RSVP by mentioning his birthday was to hide about it from him!!! How dare did she think it was ok to ask him? He got an idea right after, and they STILL MADE US WAIT FOR ANOTHER 10 MINS TO SERVE US THE DESERT PLATE!!! you can only imagine how awkward that 10mins was.
8. Finally the desert plate with a candle came in. To be fair, I must say the cake was amazing, even though that waitress came and said «I am horrible at singing so I’m not gonna sing, but here is the birthday complementary plate from us.» Ah, did she really need to say that?
9. After we were done with all the meal, we still need to wait OVER 15 MINS till the waitress comes back to us to give me the bill. As it took forever my boyfriend went outside to smoke. I caught an attention of the manager and complained about the waitress having asked about the birthday. He just said, «oh really? Wow I just told her she needs to bring the plate to the table.» HE DID NOT EVEN SAY SORRY. After my boyfriend came back, he said he saw THE WAITRESS OUTSIDE SMOKING A CIGARETTE. I’m not saying having a cigarette break is bad, but they need to take care of their customers first!
So overall the restaurant experience here was THE WORST I’VE EVER HAD. Never reserve here unless you like to wait forever for each service. I’ve been here several times for the bar, but it was the first time to go to the restaurant. I bet she usually only works at the bar and she was taking care of us as a favor for the restaurant, but hey, if she is NOT capable, then don’t open the restaurant! Denny’s has 100x better service! I really want the higher person of the restaurant to see this review and contact me for apology.

See Terri she is amazing. I love her. It is the only reason I go to this place. Best service in la.

I have mixed feelings about this place. Service at the bar area (not the restaurant) is mediocre. Our server who will remain unnamed (same one every time) tends to get lost I’ve had to go look for her several times at the parking lot. She’s usually out there having a cigarette. I come here because of Elaine and Marty. Who doesn’t enjoy live entertainment? I know I do! So, even though service is poopie, when a friend comes from out of town I bring them here. As long as E&M put on a great show you’ll see me there!

What can I say about the Dresden that hasn’t already been said? Was in there yesterday with a friend, after an extremely long day at work, had a few drinks and apps to unwind. So relaxing after a long day, the mood, the atmosphere…
After making it halfway to my car, I realized I left my camera bag at the restaurant, sprinted about 12 blocks on Vermont… They had it waiting for me, «We were looking for you, to give you your bag!»
The Dresden is a CLASS ACT. Even though it may be swamped and busier than belief, these people really care about their customers.
Thank you staff for saving my butt yesterday, cannot thank you enough.

This place is an institution since the 1960s, as they say, frozen in time with the Swingers with that né’er do well attitude here — the Dresden is a place to take any first time wanna be Angelenos, with that being said it’s not a 5 star joint, but it’s a really good 3 star. It’s pretty much crowded every night due to their signature love couple playing all their hits from half a century ago in the same hip and cool way. The drinks are small and light, so stick with the straight or on the rocks — their bartenders look like they’re institutionalized also, the only upgrades from way back when are the waitress’.
So if you’re looking to stop in to get a drink and hop to the next Los Feliz hot spot then come here, but don’t look to make this your sit all night and take a date (the music is really loud), but if you’re looking to scope out the talent and maybe brush elbows with some people then here’s a great little place to do just that.
Keep swinging, enjoy.

Love this place. It’s an iconic spot (surely you saw it in Swingers) but even if it wasn’t a film location it would still be a great place to visit. The mood is always just right, and while it can get a little crowded and loud it’s still got an intimate classic vibe. Haven’t really dined here too much but the food is ok. The drinks are good but there’s a little bit of a wait to get them. Also it warms my heart to see Marty and Elayne perform. A sweet classic spot in trendy Los Feliz.

Go to the Dresden they said… They filmed swingers there they said… Finally built the courage and went only to be disappointed… No one was down and I came home to my wife… Good cuz I’m a little camera shy

The 2016 Unilocal 500, Review #011:
Take heed: I never give out 5 stars for anything… Ok let me define it better… never on the first visit.
This review is based on the quality of the food that was consumed, the amazing table service and ambiance.
After being in California for over two weeks (sick with pneumonia for much of it), I really wanted a great meal. I have to say that the Dresden did not disappoint. It is true that I have visited The Dresden at least a dozen times but, I had never had dinner on the restaurant side. So tonight I made it a point to break that streak.
I ordered the chicken piccata and it was by far the best meal I’ve eaten in a long time. I’m not sure what to compliment most. I would probably have to give the nod to the tomato sauce that tops the fettuccine. It is more than just amazing.
My server was Gustavo (and Sylvia was also working) was the quintessential Dresden employee. If you have read my other reviews you know well and good that I can’t stand intrusive wait staff. No worries… You won’t find that here… Both the employees I dealt with were very familiar with the menu. When I was torn between the trout and the chicken Gustavo made a suggestion that was spot on. Later Sylvia mentioned that the piccata was her favorite dish.
Also note: Prior to the main course I had a salad with Italian dressing and at the end of the meal I had a berry cheese cake tart. It was heavenly.
Afterward, I migrated over to listen to Marty and Elayne who had supplied the soundtrack to dinner. Once on the bar side the Tuesday night open mic night was in full effect. Patrick B. was in the house so we got the gift of his awesome voice… I am not sure the night could have been any better. The way I saw it… Everyone here really needed to take a bow. Bravo!
Prices: This was typical of a Florida or NYC establishment with a rich history, good food and live music.
One last thing about the staff… These people work in flawless attire… I mean, the bartenders for one… Man, I am getting myself some of those threads!
Parking: Ray was the man working the lot out back. He pointed to a pole position spot close to the door… Perfect! cost? $ 3.50.
The worst part of this night was having to leave the friends I had made over the years. There truly couldn’t have existed a better evening in this great city.
Return? Heck ya! This is my spot now!

Had a great dinner here prior to hitching a ride up to The Greek Theater. Old school ambiance, good food, great service and stiff drinks. It was a great evening, and my husband and I would absolutely do the shuttle service and dinner package again.

I’ve been here several times over the years and tonight was absolutely the worst service I have ever had at any establishment. We initially waited for 15 minutes without any acknowledgment of our existence. We asked the bartender if we should order from the bar or if there would be a server coming to the table. We were informed a server would come to the table. 10 minutes later, nothing. Mind you the place was NOT BUSY. We went back up to the bar and ordered drinks. The bartender literally laughed at our request for extra olives and didn’t serve the Martini as ordered (dirty w extra olives). The waitress was completely rude and forgot to bring water after being asked twice, didn’t bring bread when we ordered it, brought our appetizer with ONE of our THREE dinner entrees and then was visibly upset when we asked for condiments. There was a shift change and when we asked for the bread AGAIN that was supposed to come with our order she threw a plate on our table and said «I’m not your waitress anymore.» We explained to the manager the issues with service and he rolled his eyes and said «Thanks for the feedback.» On the way out the Valet was incompetent and possibly more rude than the staff inside asking if the car was even ours to begin with. As we were leaving a family was waiting and asked us if we enjoyed our experience. We explained what had happened and they said they witnessed the rude service also and they decided to dine elsewhere. WHAT A SHAME. This place had been a favorite for years. NEVER AGAIN! Just completely unprofessional and totally rude to the point of insulting and demeaning. Save your money.

5 for ambiance and historical awesomeness. Food and service is a solid. 3. You are paying for ambiance and history. Food is just so-​so.
Stepping into this place is like entering a time warp. It hasn’t changed since 1950. It’s like somewhere your grandparents would have gone to hangout. Very cool. In that vain, food is pretty typical of what you would expect to get at a 50’s esque upscale place. Traditional Italian/​Americana. Food was over priced and just so-​so. I got chicken Marsala and it was good but not worth $ 20. Service was good and our waiter was super friendly and attentive. There is an *actual* piano bar attached with the traditional dark and stormy piano bar feel. Marty and Elayne have been performing for years. From what we heard; they were great singing typical jazz numbers that you expect to hear at a piano bar. Parking is $ 3.50. We went to dinner at 8:45 and did not have a problem getting a table on a Friday night.

I absolutely enjoyed the atmosphere of this little Los Feliz gem!
I rarely make it out to LA, but a friend of mine wanted to go and enjoy a martini in this quaint spot. We didn’t know it didn’t open until 4:30pm, so we waited at a spot nearby until it did, and I’m very happy we did. The bar side of the restaurant has the best feel to it for what we were looking for.
The bartender on Sunday evening was amazing — he provided excellent service, and I’m sad I didn’t ask his name (or remember it, if he told me). He was playful and took care of my five girlfriends and I until we left, and we were sad to put an end to our night.

Food was good. Ordered the rainbow trout and very delicious with almonds $ 19. Ambiance was definitely the reason was granted 4 stars. Service was pleasant, but nothing over the top. Ordered a mocktail at bar and was priced as if it contained alcohol, rip off.

This place rocks! Great food, fantastic ambience (and music), and outstanding friendly service!
I was at Château Marmont last night, with the same people that we are here now. Everyone loves this place 100 times more than the château!

Can’t believe it was my first time here just this last weekend. What a GEM. Yes I said GEM. Drinking a dirty martini in the lounge while listening to Marty and Elayne is just lovely. The lounge waitress was a bit cold but maybe she was having a bad day. (HOW CAN YOU HAVE A BAD DAY WHILE LISTENING TO MARTY AND ELAYNE???)
I will return.

Very nice place. Filet mignon was ok an was overcooked (ordered medium rare, got solid medium).

Fur coats everywhere? Is that the dress code for women? Its like an African savannah in here!
Seriously though, I don’t think of myself as a young guy, but I definitely feel like I need to wait a few years for this place.

The parking situation in the area is so ridiculous I wouldn’t recommend coming just for a bar or any of the surrounding restaurants.
Parking enforcement writes tickets on green meters and the valet is super shady, good luck!

Title: Not everything that looks good is good, and not everything that is bad is so bad.
Took the kids to the Observatory for the first time and after all that walking, stair climbing, and star gazing we decided to search for a place to eat.
I saw the pictures first on Unilocal and that drew me to this place. It wasn’t far from the Observatory either so of course a plus. It had a history too, so I really wanted to check this place out.
Wow! That is what I thought when I walked in. The dining area is gorgeous. White seats with the white cotton cloth on the table. Thin dark brown wood beams that run from the ceiling to the floor. The beautiful chandeliers and the reddish orange walls. If you are trying to impress a girl you can do no wrong by bringing her here for the view alone. I remember thinking, this place is perfect.
About 2 to 3 minutes of me and the wife wondering where is restaurant staff to seat us? Another minute and I started walking through the dining area looking for help. There was a waiter who appeared to show up cleaning silverware, but he walked on. I walked deeper and all the way in the back is the restaurant reception desk. I thought this was strange. What was stranger is the older lady standing at the desk asking me did I want something? It confused me at first, because the proper thing to say would have been to ask me how many was in my party. But she asked me what I wanted and it threw me off. I eventually fumbled over my words and said dining in.
She grab some menus and walked me back towards the dining area. Stopped said something to the waiter that reappeared. And he picked a table for us to go to. This was also strange because there were no one else here. The dining area was completely empty. At this point she could have asked me if I had a preference of seating. But I am literately digressing.
She asked us from something to drink. My wife went to the restroom. The waitress/​older lady decided this would be a good time to tell me a joke about the time where I guess apparently another black guy showed up. In this joke there was some confusion about brown rice. I guess this black guy never heard of brown rice before and thought the waitress/​older lady was being racist. I gave an awkward laugh. She walked away mumbling about brown rice again. It was a strange and uncomfortable moment we shared. I wonder if she still remembers me. The other black guy she told the joke to about the first black guy and brown rice. Anyway…
The food came and the waitress was having a very hard time with the food. I wanted to help her with the plates, but I don’t think you are really allowed to do that. The plates do look heavy though. She kept trying to put a table napkin on her arm and it kept falling off. I felt bad. Maybe I should have laughed harder at the joke. Maybe I should have told her a joke back? Darn missed opportunities…
I ordered the Chicken Marsala. The sauce was sour and I didn’t care for it. The chicken was good though and was very tender. I think they actually specialize more on there steaks. I don’t think I will ever come back, but if I do happen to get dragged here that would be what I would try.
The waitress was having a hard time hearing me. I was wondering did she work here back when this place first opened in 1954. It would explain the uncomfortable joke maybe. Either way I couldn’t get a refill to save my life. Since the water glasses were so small (and all the walking I was doing) I was thirsty. I wonder why that waiter dude wasn’t helping the lady more often. Maybe she didn’t want his help. She definitely needed it though.
The Garlic bread was good. So there is that.
The right side is apparently where all the live music and bar lounge is located. I bet that would be pretty neat. While I was waiting for a refill of water, I started Sound Hounding all the music that was playing in the background.
The Mills Brothers — Opus One
Joni James — Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart
Lena Horne — You Do Something To Me
All kidding a side the music really put you in the type of atmospheric mood where if other things were different, it would have been a wonderful day out with the family. It wasn’t horrible though. It was just weird and uncomfortable.

Love this place! Great drinks and great atmosphere. Never had the food, but the chocolate cake is out of this world! A must when LA!

You can’t deny the eloquence, jazzy, old-​timey feel of this place.
Once you enter, you feel transported into some 1930’s special place. Be sure to get a table next to the stage (RSVP if necessary) especially when Marty and Elayne hit the stage.
I sat in the corner of the back room, for some privacy, but also, some creepy friends made the reservation and one of them proceeded to take his shirt off.
New York Steak came to the table… and it was as pleasing as a lean cuisine angus beef patty. It came with a side of slimy carrots, gravy, and just wasn’t appetizing in any way.
(I know this place is going for the old-​school, but can’t we get an updated version of vegetable sides other than gas-​inducing broccoli and carrots?)
I give this place 4 stars because I believe in 2^nd chances. Especially when I’m dying to try Wild Salmon and get a close view of the entertainment.
White on white on white on white Jazz banquet.

I Iove this place. I’ve been going here for 15 years. I try to stop in at least once a month. Good live music, good atmosphere and always a stiff drink. Some really beautiful baby’s up in that spot, too.
Seriously the only down fall, no dress code. It’s way to causal for the style and setting. Cargo shorts do not belong in a swanky Hollywood lounge.

We split the Chateaubriand for two, cooked medium rare. The flavor was good, but the meat could have used some more seasoning. The side pasta and mashed potatoes were good but unremarkable.
Their signature Blood & Sand cocktail was disappointing. It tasted like they used a bottom shelf rum.
The chocolate mousse dessert was delicious. Would definitely order again.
The best part of this restaurant was the décor and service. We left before the music really started so I can’t say much about their entertainment.

When I was growing up, I loved the movie swingers, and when I moved here of course I had to come. When I heard that Marty and Elayne were legitimate music group it turned into a must. This place has so much character. From so far outdated that it’s now back in style motif, to Marty and Elayne themselves — this place has character! Bar price is a little expensive so don’t go on a bender! Have a couple, and watch these reinvent the classics, take a picture of them, buy there merch, and above all tip them. It feels like you’re in a classy lounge from the 60’s
On the bar menu is escargot. Odd thing for a bar food menu item, but I must warn you they are fantastic! I go back just for them.

Hi folks
I had search on Google for live music restaurant in Los Angeles, and i got this restaurant!
First i should be let you know that it has 2 part, the bar side and the restaurant. The live music and band play till 11 or 11:30,near the bar, actually we were sitting in restaurant side to get a food, so we could hearing the music but the restaurant side is more private.
Regarding food it was amazing, all foods that we ordered were perfect, the price range is 18 $-30 $, the dishes are pretty big and delicious.
The customer service was perfect, but please be careful if you want order cocktail, cause they don’t have any menu for that, only have wine menu, but the price is expensive for cocktails drink, i was ordering Margarita extra shot and the price was 22 $!!!
That’s the only negative point for me regarding this restaurant cause i forgot to ask price for that, then get surprised for that.

Pa toda mi gente colombiana, Gabriel si sabe hacer un traguito para una dama como yo. El prepara loa mejores tragos. Te recomiendo su Blue Hawaiian o Mai Tai o martini. Gracias Gabriel.

I was finally able to make it back to the Dresden! This time I was able to spend a lot more time in the lounge/​bar.
In fact, I went twice:)
The first night, I was beat down from my flight and working the night before. So I was in and out after a drink. Fortunately I left my check card.
So I headed back the next evening with some friends and enjoyed the rest of the night listening to Marty and Elaine and friends!!!
The staff at the Dresden are probably the nicest people in the business, from the doorman (I didn’t get his name) to the waiter John who called me a cab. Also Marty was very pleasant and seemed like he remembered everybody that walked into that place!
And a big shout out to Roxie the cocktail Waitress who took care of me both nights I was there. She made me feel like a long time regular!!!

hmmmm…
A bit of a let down.
There’s so much hype around this establishment but my French 75 cocktail was poorly made. if not incorrectly and the place just seemed a bit underwhelming. I understand it’s suppose to be a nostalgic and old-​fashioned but eh.
Cocktail that my friend and I ordered was so sweet. Watched the bartender pour simple syrup for a good while… No lemon juice in the drink or lemon garnish. Basketball game was on so that was sort of cool, felt pretty divey. Oh well.
Glad I came to the famous Dresden, but I doubt I’ll be coming back. There’s way better food and ambiance in other restaurants.

We have been now coming here for years, mostly to celebrate special occasions. This place is just downright classy. Years later, the atmosphere nor the food has changed, and that’s not a bad thing. Consistency is great. Their prime rib ($ 26) is the juiciest thing ever! Awesome quality of meat. It comes with a baked potato (or starch of choice), which I swear is dipped in au jus or something, because it is divine. Some kind of beef broth flavor in there, making it creamy and delicious. They give you a huge honking piece too! The shrimp cocktail is pretty tasty too, large juicy shrimps in nice and spicy cocktail sauce! The clientele is a bit on the older side, but that’s okay. It’s classy and intimate and there are a lot of regulars.

You’re so money and you don’t even know it!!!
I have been visiting the Dresden since the days of Swingers. Walking into the Dresden is like walking back in time. The Dresden is without question a landmark of Los Feliz /​Los Angeles /​Hollywood since 1954.
You can walk into the Dresden at any time and find a good time but at night this place truly gets going. I once took my mother here for a Cosmopolitan and she loved the retro feel. If you are planning a trip here make sure you visit between 9:00pm-1:30am (Tuesday-​Saturday) to see Marty & Elayne rock the house. If you have ever seen the movies ‘Swingers’ yes two people in that movie singing ‘Stayin alive’ are real and truly get the patrons in the right mood. If you are visiting on a Tuesday evening get yourself ready for open mic night in the lounge which is a TON of fun.
The Dresden even serves an amazing dinner. I have dinned here before I have zero complaints regarding the food. The Dresden is actually known for their Prime Rib which is simply mouthwatering=) Just typing the words prime rib is getting my hungry. Anything else that the Dresden serves is absolutely top notch. If you are planning a birthday and with a reservation of 4 or more the birthday dinner is on the house (actually capped out at $ 20) but still a nice gesture of gratitude.
The Dresden accepts reservations by phone only. If you are planning a dinner here plan ahead and make a reservation.
I believe the Dresden is also a participating restaurant in the Dine-​N-​Ride program for the Greek Theater & Hollywood Bowl.
The Dresden offers parking to the rear of the establishment. If that parking lot is full there is plenty of metered street parking, pay lots or if you are lucky ‘free’ street parking in the adjacent residential district just east of the restaurant. For me my ‘go to’ tattoo shop (Funny farm Tattooing) is walking distance away and there is always a secured parking space for me there.
I have enjoyed many a night out at the Dresden and that streak will continue=)
If you are looking for a cool place to hang out with friends and mingle with a cool crowd the Dresden is IT!!!
Every Monday night throughout the summer the Dresden hosts local artist concerts which are a BLAST!!!
Thank you Dresden for all the memories, man if these walls could talk I imagine they would tell and interesting story.