West Hollywood has some of the most popular nightlife in the U.S., and some of the best parties are in the bars (and guest rooms) in the swanky hotels in the area.
To kick off the upcoming LA Pride June 8-9 in West Hollywood, GayCities chatted with local resident Jerome Tenpenny, a booker with a local talent agency, who shared with us a story from Pride in 2018.
“I had to walk home in Tina Turner drag after a night at The Mondrian,” a famously fashionable hotel on Sunset Blvd, he says as he launches into his story…
Do explain how you ended up at The Mondrian while dressed as Tina Turner.
I had friends visiting for pride last year, and they had a pre-“get ready” cocktail moment before walking down to the festival. Which led to us going back to The Mondrian after the events for a little after-party. Which ended up with me waking up at The Mondrian the next morning, with no change of clothes.
What did you do?
I walked home, still as Tina, while people were driving to work and honking at me. “Look at Tina, rolling down Sunset! Get it girl!”
Why didn’t Tina call an Uber or a Lyft?
I had left my purse at Fubar, my fave bar, so no phone or keys or anything. Luckily my roommate at the time was home and let me in. The look on his face…
Did you at least take the wig off?
Nope. And Tina was a little worse for her wear after a full night.
Why didn’t you take the wig off just to walk home?
You’ll never catch me wig-less and heels in hand. When I commit, I commit.
What happened to your purse?
I was able to go and retrieve everything after, thank goodness. I left it on the bar. They still had it. The staff at Fubar is wonderful.
Is The Mondrian a nice hotel?
Oh yes, very nice. The rooms are lovely. Nice wood floors, a big spacious bed in white and muted beige tones, furniture has a modern feel. It’s a modern, clean aesthetic, and very comfortable. And the staff is very friendly. They just smiled at me when watched me walk through the lobby.
What is the scene like at The Mondrian?
It is all types really, business and tourist, gay and straight, especially since it’s located in West Hollywood and is close to all the restaurants and bars. Sky Bar is very popular, and their pool is fun on weekends.
Have you been back to The Mondrian since?
Many times! Lots of friends that I’ve met from around the globe stay there. It’s a great place to meet up and get a drink at Sky Bar before heading out on the town.
Related: Raymond Braun jumps from social media to movies with documentary ‘State of Pride’
Questions/comments/concerns? Email danrenzi@gaycities.com
