Los Angeles - May 12, 2006

Social Studies

Social Hollywood Now Open

Does the thought of another glitzy restaurant/bar/A-list playground give you dry mouth? Sweaty palms? Swampy pits?

You may suffer from Overly Social Anxiety, an ailment resulting from exposure to subpar nightspots.

Good news. There’s a cure: Social Hollywood, the new multifaceted occupant of the old Hollywood Athletic Club.

Though the Screening Room won’t be finished until mid-summer and Level Two (which includes the Velvet Room, Green Room, and Game Rooms) is invite-only, everyone is welcome at the restaurant and lounge.

Weathered frescoes, custom plates, and furnishings from Hotel Continental in Tangier make the Moroccan Room an idyll for diners. The smart staff will help you navigate inspired cocktail and wine lists (try the Pimm’s Cup) and globally influenced options like Turks and Caicos conch (escargot style) and short rib tagine with Oaxacan mole.

Across the lobby is The Bar, where libations and a menu of ceviches, tartares, lamb cigars, and Kobe sliders await. The sleek, mod leather couches and deep high-design club chairs are the perfect retreats for when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

So score a reservation to dine or just make plans to meet for a beyond-perfect bellini.

Either way, be unafraid. Be very unafraid.

Social Hollywood, 6525 Sunset Boulevard, at Schrader Boulevard, Hollywood (323-462-5222 or socialhollywood.com).