A Refreshing Reminder of L.A.’s Glamour
By: Brandi Bonner
The Aqua Lounge was the best place to remind my friend, Tati, that Los Angeles has not lost its touch of scenery, fun, and excitement since she left. She is a Los Angeles native, but recently came back home after obtaining her Master’s degree in Atlanta.
Upon entering the Aqua Lounge, I immediately fell in love with the oceanic theme. A massive fish tank greets you as you step down into the club. There is always something about the ocean that brings me to a place of peace. At one point, I remember wishing to be a mermaid in that I could swim around one of the fish tanks that played the role as artwork on the walls.
Judy, the general manager greeted me with a warm smile and a concerned personality. She is a long legged brunette who was more than sweet. I’d like to remember her as being equivalent to cotton candy. It is amazing that she hasn’t melted in this under water world of fun. She gave me her blessing and told me to come to her if I needed anything. The intimacy and excitement of the club kept me from making it to that point. But, knowing that she was there to enhance my visit made me feel beautiful inside.
After being sea stars of the Aqua Lounge for less than twenty minutes, Tati and I were invited to have drinks with NBA Celtics star, Paul Pierce. While Tati partied with Paul, I decided to walk around the aquatic themed paradise. The lights at the Aqua Lounge were low and dim, yet bright enough for ladies to know if a man has truly sexy features or not. This way, the ladies do not have to worry about waking up to a man that is coyote ugly. That is, if you find someone special enough. Finding a date wouldn’t be hard though. The Aqua Lounge was quite tempting. An attractive multicultural crowd between the ages of twenty-five and thirty something swarmed the entirety of the club—men and women. Of course, I was not surprised because this is Beverly Hills baby! Everyone is a star. For super stars, there is a VIP section available where private parties can manifest.
Before entering the underground world of the Aqua Lounge, I was a bit worried about my lime green mini dress and high-heeled shoes interrupting my comfort. But, my worries were washed away once I stepped inside and saw the comfortable chairs and mini tables that strategically decorated seventy five percent of the floor. The chairs and tables that rest downstairs of the lounge can make everyone feel like a very important person. This makes the Aqua Lounge stand out because many places call themselves lounges, but dare to disregard seating, which is the prime factor in lounging. Like many women, seating is important to me because shoes are my best friends, and like best friends, they can sometimes betray you. Tonight was not one of those nights. My high-heels were easily rested while sitting in one of the available seats. Although the seats were a deep red, I felt the coolness of ocean blue. It was much similar to the feeling of sitting in a lay-z-boy. It was a true delight for my bottom.
The dance floor is small, yet appropriate. I hate to be forced to dance or stand all night, especially when wearing stilettos or a mini skirt; in this case, I had on both. When I did decide to cut a rug, my friend and I had the freedom to dance on the dance floor, or on stage right next to the D.J. booth. This is yet another plus for the Aqua Lounge. Often times one would have a request for the D.J., but he is untouchable. It was more than easy to whisper sweet requests in the D.J.’s ear. To my surprise he met every one of them.
A fully stocked bar with the sexiest bartender that I have ever seen served drinks like it was second nature for him. I was actually too shy to ask his name. Instead, I ordered my beverage; Sprite and fruit punch, and continued on with my night in marine land. The tingling sensation of soda and fruit punch immediately took me on a ride upon the perfect wave. Although not intoxicated, the atmosphere of the Aqua Lounge made me feel like I was. Natural highs are always the best.
Judy explained to me that Thursday nights were more exciting than Wednesday’s because it is Burlesque night. In spite of this, I still enjoyed myself to the fullest. When driving home, Tati looked at me and said, “I miss L.A. I am happy to be home.” My mission was accomplished. The Aqua Lounge truly fulfilled its purpose.
My Rating—Super Cool

