The new year has brought challenges to many in Los Angeles, with a palpable sense of loneliness hanging over the city, intensified by personal struggles of heartache and the weight of global issues.
For one Los Angeles resident, however, a seemingly mundane outing at Lily’s Bar—formerly known as MiniBar—unfolded into an unforgettable evening filled with unexpected connection.
Nestled within the Adler Hollywood Hills Hotel on Franklin Avenue, Lily’s Bar is a haven for patrons seeking both solitude or companionship, a duality that resonates with many Angelenos.
On this idle Wednesday, our protagonist, dwelling on a recent breakup with an egocentric actor, found solace in the pages of Eve Babitz’s “Sex and Rage” alongside a dirty martini, aiming to keep to herself and evade conversation.
However, her attention was soon captured by a man at the bar, who was furiously scribbling on a napkin.
The man’s passionate writing sparked curiosity, and despite his striking features reminiscent of a bygone era—akin to Marlon Brando—she felt a deeper intrigue towards his creative fervor than his looks.
Time slipped away in the establishment, but as she prepared to leave the bar, inspiration struck: she decided to leave her number on a napkin beside the man’s drink as a bold gesture.
With a sense of energy, she walked to her car, only to be called back by the man as he exited the bathroom.
Introducing himself as Vincent, he suggested they go to the nearby Frolic Room, a spontaneous offer that felt electric in the moment.
The Frolic Room, located just a quick walk from the last bar, was almost empty, setting the stage for a quiet yet intimate evening.
As they made their way to the jukebox, Vincent complimented her boldness in leaving her number, revealing a parallel desire to have done something similar.
Amid a comfortable silence, she chose Billy Joel’s “Vienna,” an anthem that echoed her yearning for adventure in the city, prompting Vincent to select “Piano Man.”
Their shared enthusiasm turned the bar into a stage, as they each mimed piano notes, drawing in laughter and participation from others around.
As the night progressed, curiosity sparked about Vincent’s career, but the conversation remained refreshingly devoid of typical Los Angeles small talk.
A surprising revelation came when the bartender announced they had just hung a photo of Vincent on the wall amidst celebrity memorabilia, leaving her astounded.
As they left the Frolic Room and strolled together under the Hollywood marquee, she finally asked Vincent about his profession, to which he proudly declared himself a DJ.
Their conversation shifted from playful banter to deeper connection, leading to an impulsive invitation back to his place, which she readily accepted.
What followed was a nocturnal adventure, marked by an inviting atmosphere of warm jazz, smooth whiskey, and shared intimacy, culminating in a feeling that welcomed warmth and delight back to her life.
Waking up the next day, though faced with a headache and obligations, she felt a renewed sense of giddiness unlike anything since the beginning of the year.
While her curiosity about Vincent lingered, the realization dawned that his identity mattered less than the magic of their connection and the unexpected joy he brought to her life.
Upon returning home, her investigative instincts surged as she delved into the online realm to learn more about him, tracing his identity through Lily’s Bar’s social media profile.
Her sleuthing confirmed he was indeed a well-traveled DJ whose artistry resonated with countless listeners, a testament to the mystery and allure he embodied during their night together.
In the aftermath of the evening, she found herself reinspired—a lively connection had rekindled hope within her, revitalizing her passion for both love and life in Los Angeles.
As she reflected on the encounter, the lyrics, “When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?” echoed in her mind, a reminder of the possibilities still waiting to be uncovered.
Ultimately, this night at Lily’s Bar serves as a reminder of the unexpected encounters that can change one’s perspective, especially in a city where disconnection often overshadows connection.
image source from：latimes
