When Reza Roohi (formerly of SBE) took the reins of the space that was once Monroe’s, the door on the corner of Melrose and Huntley became the most heavily guarded door in Los Angeles.

Driving by Villa on any given night, one will see a crowd on the corner comprised of equal parts paparazzi and hopeful partygoers.  Before those partygoers get to the door, they are told by valet that they only have two minutes to a) see if they can get in, b) get rejected and c) get back to the valet before they have to pay the $15 valet fee – giving the crowd in front a quick turnaround rate.

Inside, those lucky enough to get in will easily find comfort in the dark and cozy (read: teeny-tiny) lounge.  The intimate space is reminiscent of your grandfather’s study, assuming your grandfather has a study like those in the movies – with the walls lined with hard-cover novels, mismatched sofas and ottomans, birdcages, and kooky collectibles.  Situated above the bar is a large, stuffed bird and an astronaut suit (that looks to us like it is posed mid-dance move).  Yes, an astronaut suit.

Usually the strict door policies of A-list clubs become lax after a few months – when the partying elite pack up their short attention spans and move on the next best club.  Not the case with this destination hotspot – Villa’s door is as impenetrable today as it was on opening night.  Celebs like Benjamin Mackenzie are still denied entrance, and the Sacramento Kings’ Ron Artest and his entourage were notoriously rejected for not wearing proper attire.  Sensitive partygoers are advised to seek partying solace elsewhere, unless you’re a A-B list celeb…or at least look like one. – Stephanie Ocampo