Mirrored propaganda art, Soviet-themed posters, and chandeliers dusted off from Babushka’s flat adorn the parlor of West Hollywood’s latest Russian-themed hot spot, Bar Lubitsch. Vodka is the beverage of choice and the Bolshevik Propaganda Pamphlet, otherwise known as the bar menu, lists over 200 varieties. From the veteran owners of some of L.A.’s famed watering holes — El Carmen, Good Luck Bar, Jones, and Swingers — Bar Lubitsch is two parts 1917 Soviet speak-easy mixed with one part late, great Hollywood director Ernst Lubitsch. Falling in step with the director’s style, the joint is an upscale locale with a familiar nonchalance and a palpable spark. Celebrities trying to keep a low profile have been spotted among the oversize booths, sipping vodka cocktails that are kitschy throwbacks to the homeland, like the Moscow Mule (vodka, ginger beer, splash of lime juice). In the back room a second bar and intimate tables line the walls to make room for a dance floor where DJs get crowds shaking on late nights and weekends. One bit of advice to capitalize on the communist vibe: Arrive early to avoid lines and stay late toasting za vas to the tsars of yesteryear.

7702 Santa Monica Blvd    +323.654.1234