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Since 1963, the Improvisation Comedy Clubs have remained the premier stages for live comedy in the United States. Over the decades, the talent who have graced Improv stages represent the Who’s Who in American comedy.
Located at the epicenter of the entertainment world, the legendary Hollywood Improv opened decades ago and continues to deliver a combination of A-list comedy, great food and strong cocktails. In the days leading up to its 1975 opening, a young Jay Leno could be found helping paint the ceilings. The club’s iconic brick wall and trademark piano have become symbols of stand-up comedy around the globe. Hollywood Improv is recognized for developing the careers of countless comedy superstars and providing the setting for the popular television show, “An Evening at the Improv.”
As in New York, the next generation of artists and entertainment executives worked the Improv—on stage, in the house, and behind the bar. Actor/comedian Adam Devine (“Workaholics,” “Pitch Perfect”), comedy manager Jimmy Miller (Jim Carrey), and writer/producer/director Judd Apatow (“The 40 Year-Old Virgin” “Knocked Up”) were part of the fraternity of door managers. Actress Debra Winger (“Urban Cowboy,” “Terms of Endearment”) and writer Callie Khouri (“Thelma & Louise”) were waitresses. And the very first bartender was actor/comedian Kevin Nealon (“SNL,” “Weeds”).
Details
- Accepts reservationsAvailable
- DebitAvailable
- Mobile paymentsNot available
- Cash onlyNot available
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.6
1,863 reviews
5 stars
1,392
4 stars
324
3 stars
80
2 stars19
1 star
48
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Comedy Talent
Customers praised the lineup of comedians, noting many performances as hilarious and memorable.
Atmosphere
The venue is described as intimate and lively, enhancing the overall comedy experience.
Service Quality
Staff received positive remarks for being friendly, attentive, and professional.
Food and Drinks
While some enjoyed the food and drinks, others found them average or overpriced, particularly the drink quality.
Seating Arrangement
Seating was noted as cramped by some, with suggestions for better table arrangements.
- JGJoAnn Genette2 days ago2.0There are plenty of places around Los Angeles to watch comedy so you can skip this joint. Many years ago, I wrote a nice and uplifting review of this location because I was new to Los Angeles. The venue screwed me over on my Birthday after we spent over $93 on three tickets to see Gary Cannon and Arsenio Hall. My group had transportation issues (which isn't the venues fault) but the staff was so unhelpful when only two of us arrived late. I was all dressed up in a Birthday tiara and we didn't care what show we saw at that point, but the staff told me to go buy two new tickets for one of the later 9:45pm shows. No, I just spent $18 to park my car and I've already spent $93 on tickets to see nothing. I'm not spending more money here, especially not on names we don't recognize. They wouldn't even toss us a discount on 2 admissions to the lab (which costs significantly less). We would've bought food and drinks inside since it was obviously a Birthday event based on the way I was dressed. Help us out here? Please don't ruin this night. We understand all sales are final but two (out of the three) of us came all the way out here, hoping to salvage this evening. They didn't care so we left and now we'll avoid this place forever. We drove over to Flappers in Burbank where the staff is so much nicer anyway. The parking is free too. We watched a great comedy show and spent money on food and drinks and had a lovely evening. Flappers helped save our Birthday outing while Improv just shrugged their shoulders and took money for doing nothing. Give me a break, Improv. All the same comedians can be seen anywhere else around Los Angeles and usually for much less money so you're just greedy and very bad at hospitality. Pfft.
- MCMorgann Caruthers5 days ago1.0Great comedy club. But the tall black security officer is rude and needs a new job. He picks and chose who to let in the comedy club with phone. He refuse to let me in with my phone but once I got in there was a couple with two phones recording and taking pictures..
- TTTookeyNov 1, 20255.0Looking for a great night out in LA that won’t break the bank? We got to see Jason Ellis, and it was such a great show that we caught another next door. Food and drinks were very reasonably priced and served quickly. Each set had the crowd in stitches 10/10 would do again.
- VVVernon VillasenorOct 26, 20255.0Always a great show, get there at least 30 minutes before show for best seating options. They now require you to place cell phones in secure pouches they hand out. They are trying to stop people from recording the show. No big deal, just be aware.
- SMScott MurrayOct 26, 20254.0Mediocre food, watered down drinks and 65-80% funny comics. It's an institution. Still a fun night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hollywood Improv
Is there an age requirement for entry?
Unless otherwise specified, you must be at least 18 years of age to enter and at least 21 years of age to purchase and consume alcohol. You will need to show valid photo identification to enter our club. Accepted forms of identification include:
-State issued Driver’s License
-State issued ID
-Passport
-Military ID
-U.S. Permanent Resident Card
What happens if I show up late?
Guests are allowed into our showroom up until 15 minutes after the show begins. We stop seating 15 minutes into the show due to the disruption caused to the performers. No exceptions, no refunds.
Do you allow cameras inside the venue?
Photography, filming, videotaping or other forms of recording without consent of the club and the artist is strictly prohibited. Guests who abuse this policy will be ejected immediately. Certain artists may also prohibit cell phones from being allowed into the show. Please check the details of your show at purchase.
How do I learn more about upcoming shows and what's happening at the venue?
Check us out on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for the latest news or visit our website to check out our event calendar!
What is your bag policy?
No oversized bags or backpacks are allowed. All bags are subject to search upon entry. The venue has the right to refuse entry and to restrict any items at any time without prior notice.
Can we eat at the show?
We highly encourage you to dine with us! See our website for our current menu. Please note that outside food and beverage is prohibited. There is a two-item minimum food & beverage purchase requirement for all guests in the showroom.
Does the two-item minimum purchase requirement mean I have to buy two alcoholic beverages?
No. Any food item or beverage (with or without alcohol) counts toward the two-item minimum. We offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and encourage our guests to please drink responsibly.
What are the age requirements to enter Hollywood Improv and to purchase alcohol?
You must be at least 18 years old to enter and at least 21 to purchase and consume alcohol. Valid photo ID is required, including driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, or U.S. permanent resident card.
What is the policy if I arrive late to a show at Hollywood Improv?
Guests can enter up to 15 minutes after the show starts. After that, seating stops to avoid disrupting performers. There are no exceptions or refunds for late arrivals.
Are cameras allowed inside Hollywood Improv?
Photography, filming, or recording without the club and artist's consent is prohibited. Violation of this policy may result in immediate ejection. Some shows may restrict cell phone usage as well.
Where can I find information about upcoming shows and events at Hollywood Improv?
You can follow Hollywood Improv on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or visit their website to check the event calendar and latest news.
What is Hollywood Improv's bag policy?
No oversized bags or backpacks are allowed. All bags are subject to search upon entry. The venue reserves the right to refuse entry or restrict items at any time without prior notice.
Can I bring outside food or eat during the show at Hollywood Improv?
Outside food and beverages are prohibited. The venue encourages dining there, with a two-item minimum food and beverage purchase required per guest inside the showroom.
Does the two-item minimum purchase requirement mean I need to buy two alcoholic drinks?
No, any combination of food or beverages counts towards the two-item minimum, including non-alcoholic options. Guests are encouraged to drink responsibly.
What nearby places can I visit before or after attending Hollywood Improv?
You might enjoy visiting V Cafe, a nearby coffee shop and restaurant, or Red O, a popular Mexican and seafood restaurant, for dining options surrounding your visit to Hollywood Improv.
Are there nearby venues related to comedy or entertainment around Hollywood Improv?
Yes, The Improv Comedy Lab is close by, offering additional comedy club experiences, and The Melrose Manor, which hosts arts and entertainment events, making the area vibrant for live performances.
What local shops or services are near Hollywood Improv that could enhance my visit?
Nearby you can find beauty salons like Alexalon and European Touch Hair Design, as well as clothing stores such as Rosana Boutique and Ralph Lauren, making it convenient to combine entertainment with shopping or personal care.