When nightlife impresarios Sam Nazarian and Brent Bolthouse get together, an endless array of glamor, excess and an A-list clientele is always certain.

Hyde Lounge (formerly North) is probably no larger than Paris Hilton's closet, but the intimate setting is the big draw. The single room, bathed in gold lighting, is lined with Industry insiders atop banquettes and faux-croc ottomans. It didn't take long to realize the importance of table reservations: Those without are relegated to the small back-bar area, where black lacquered floors, a black-leather-tufted wall and dark French gothic wallpaper contrast the brightness of all that gold. A menu of Asian-inspired munchies from chef Katsuya Uechi is available for the hungry; celeb sightings are also endless for the starving (actors). With such limited space, the super-strict door policy—the valet won't drive away with your car until it's certain you're getting in—ensures an exclusive roll call of who's who in Hollywood. Hyde is the spot to seek, if you can get in. —Egon Parker