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- Jonnie Houston wears ALABAMA BLONDE coat, CODE22 top, GLADYS TAMEZ hat and ZANA BAYNE kerchief. Mark Houston wears JOSEFINA BY VERO SOLIS jacket, GLADYS TAMEZ hat and LA EYEWORKS sunglasses.
The Houston brothers have been the almost mythical creators of LA’s nightlife scene for however long I can remember. The Thai-English identical twins, Mark and Jonnie, opened up their first pub in 2008, the Piano Bar in Hollywood, which showcased performers like Tom Waits, Tom Jones and Thundercat. Since then, they have opened and run several more venues, each offering a different dish of nostalgia, thematic experiences, and prime Hollywood kitsch. Their latest venture is a ’70s era casino-themed bar Andy’s in West Hollywood where you just might bump into Geri McGee, the real-life hustler who inspired Sharon Stone’s portrayal of Ginger Mckenna in Scorsese’s gangster movie, Casino.
For this iconic issue of Reserved, we’ve dressed the Houston Brothers in the various tropes of patrons who frequent their bars, and delved deep into the design, music and experiences that make these venues so popular.
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- Mark Houston wears THE EMBROIDERY STUDIO shirt, CATHERINE FULMER sweater, J LINDEBERG vest, AYR pants, and GENTLE MONSTER sunglasses. Jonnie Houston wears J LINDEBERG jacket, PHILIPP PLEIN shirt, VANETA 1996 jeans, and RAY BAN sunglasses.
We were born and raised as Angelenos in what is now known as Koreatown. We grew up with a shared passion for storytelling and creating unique experiences.We were fascinated by the golden age of Hollywood and the allure of hidden speakeasies and secret bars.
Our journey into the hospitality industry started with a desire to revive these elements of glamour and mystery in modern nightlife. We began by transforming unconventional spaces into immersive environments that transported guests to different eras and worlds. Our first venture was a small, secret bar, The Piano Bar, hidden behind a facade, and it quickly became a local sensation.
Fueled by our initial success, we continued to innovate and expand, always focusing on creating not just venues but experiences that tell a story. Each of our locations has a distinct personality and theme, inspired by historical periods, literary works, or our own imaginations. This approach has allowed us to build a diverse portfolio of venues, each offering a unique escape for our guests.
Our roots in Southern California have always influenced our work, infusing our projects with the laid-back yet sophisticated vibe of the region of that part of the city.We take pride in combining this local influence with elements from our global travels and inspirations.
Creating this empire has been a labor of love, driven by our dedication to craftsmanship, creativity, and community. We’re thrilled to see how our vision has resonated with so many people and look forward to continuing to surprise and delight our guests with each new
Troubadour
Since 1957, this West Hollywood venue has been instrumental in launching the careers of numerous legendary musicians. Its intimate setting and rich musical history make it a cornerstone of LA’s cultural scene. That is why we love being so close to it. Our design direction didn’t fall short of inspiration.
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- Jonnie Houston wears 4FUNKYFLAVOURS top, DONATO pants available at Taelor Style, and PS KAUFMAN shoes. Mark Houston wears 4FUNKYFLAVOURS top, WAX LONDON pants, and PS KAUFMAN shoes.
Hollywood Bowl
As one of the most famous amphitheaters in the world, it’s our favorite place to watch shows and celebrate with friends and family. We have our own boxes so it’s more of a dance party when you come with us. The Hollywood Bowl has hosed countless iconic performances since 1922. Its stunning outdoor setting, acoustic sound and its new food and alcohol program make it a beloved destination for both music lovers and drunks.
Musso & Frank Grill
Our spot for hitting the bar and getting a drink. Established in 1919, this historic restaurant and bar has been a favorite of writers, actors, and filmmakers for over a century. Its classic ambiance and literary legacy make it a must-visit spot. We love the food, vibe and feel of the past when we walk in. The exterior is a bit gritty which adds to the charm.
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- Mark Houston wears WAX LONDON suit and shirt, and J LINDEBERG shoes. Jonnie Houston wears WAX LONDON suit and shirt, and PS KAUFMAN shoes.
Monte Carlo Bar
Our parents spent a lot of time here. Our mom bartended and our dad was the pool shark. A hidden gem in the city, known for its unassuming exterior and welcoming dive bar interior with tatered barstools. It’s a place where locals gather, stories are shared with the Asian bartender, and the corky two-tone cocktail is served up in 1.75 liter bottles. A place full of charm.
Jumbo’s Clown Room
Open since 1970, this quirky and iconic strip club has become a beloved part of LA’s nightlife. We discovered it when we opened the nearby Harvard and Stone and resurrected it from its last heartbeat to the pulsating heart of the city. Hopping from Harvard and Stone to Jumbo’s is a joyful journey. Jumbo’s unique blend of entertainment/strip joint and history makes it a cultural touchstone.
HMS Bounty in the Gaylord
This historic bar has been serving our dad since the ’60s and others before him since the 1940s. Its nautical theme and vintage vibe create a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. For us, it’s where my dad’s booth lives today, where you can get a shot and beer for under $10.
Jones on Santa Monica
An LA staple since the 1990s, Jones has a classic feel with its leather booths and dim lighting. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy a piece of LA’s nightlife history. The bartender chooses happy hour drinks, and the food is simple but good. No frills, no thrills. Simply good old hospitality.
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- Mark Houston wears TOMMY HILFIGER jacket, t-shirt, pants and shoes. Jonnie Houston wears TOMMY HILFIGER shirt, jeans, and shoes.
CLICK HERE to Order Reserved Magazine’s Issue 9 with The Houston Brothers to see all the images from the shoot and read the full article.
