A more appropriate name for this dance club might've been Playpen, because most of the people here look like they're barely old enough to get in. In fact, many of them look like they recently moved to LA and spend their days juggling auditions, gym classes and part-time temp jobs. They're aspiring A-listers with money of mysterious origin to burn, and for now they're having a ball.

The crowd forms outside this little spot at around 10pm, but no one is granted entrance until it looks like there's enough of a buzz outside. Once inside, thirsty clubbers head straight to the bar where bartenders clad in Pretty Woman gear (belly- and cleavage-baring tank top, miniskirt, knee-high boots) serve up charming smiles and strong drinks. Overall, Play's not much different from its former incarnation, Red Buddha Lounge: There's still a stripper pole with a lone go-go dancer, a long bar and a patio that has the vibe of a backyard barbecue party. But the red motif has been replaced by silver and blue; and more seating has been added to accommodate bottle-service customers. The dance floor is a bit bigger now too, which is great on nights when DJ StoneRokk takes over the decks to spin his addictive mix of old- and new-school hip-hop. Just ask Brian Burton (AKA Danger Mouse of Gnarls Barkley) who was here on a recent Thursday. Other big-namers that have come here to play include Brittany Snow, who like most everyone else, just turned 21. —Alexandra Le Tellier