The history, the hedonism, the hairspray — no Sunset Strip locale represents L.A. rock & roll raucousness better than the Rainbow, to this very day.

While the Rainbow’s rep as a groupie haven and record industry wine-and-dine hub kinda died with the biz itself, it remains the place to go pre- and post-concert. And why not? The Rainbow’s got some tasty pizza, fairly priced cocktails and eternally audacious ambiance — even if regulars such as Lemmy are around less and less. Part of its charm lies in the dark and homey decor, adorned with photos, posters and gold records from metal bands of yore. But it’s really about the people who go here, a happy, loose and colorful crowd with as many hues as the name implies.

For the 43rd anniversary, they’re closing off the parking lot and partying as only they can, with an outdoor stage and live sets by Ratt’s Stephen Pearcy, Gilby Clarke, Fear, Slunt, Barb Wire Dolls and many more. Afterward, Lost Anarchy magazine hosts the afterparty inside with Se7en4, Heavenlytriptohell, High Risk, Void Vator and more. 

RAINBOW BAR & GRILL
9015 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood | Sun., April 12, 2-10 p.m.; afterparty 9 p.m.-2 a.m. | Free | rainbowbarandgrill.com

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