by Lauren Lloyd
LAist
March 30, 2012

Where do you go if you’re hankering for 1930s décor, jazz, ’80s cover bands, karaoke, comedy, dueling pianos, comfort food and absinthe? The combination sounds impossible, doesn’t it? It’s not. The Charleston opened its doors to Santa Monica Thursday night, inviting L.A. to experience the newly renovated Wilshire Boulevard spot, formerly known as Angel’s.

Aside from the eclectic mix of aforementioned features, the “sexy” venue, as described by The Charleston website, also boasts burlesque, DJs and hip hop acts. Chef Jet Tila serves up American fusion comfort food in a menu of shared plates — all attractively priced at $13 and below. One gander at the menu will send most tummies into a growling fit and evoke slight to severe salivation (Don’t be embarrassed. It’s only natural). The “Bites” menu includes Bacon Wrapped Dates, Garlic Edamame, Short Rib Tacos with Shaved Brussel Sprouts and Korean Salsa, and bigger plates include Shepard’s Pie, a Three Cheese flatbread, Smoked Mac & Cheese, Sweet Potato Fries and of course, THE Wedge Salad. Sweet teeth can score satiation with three desserts: Plantain Sundae, Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding and Orange Butter Milk Panna Cotta.

Playing host to monthly pop-ups spotlighting local and national chef talent, Tila has so far recruited Evan Kleiman, KCRW “Good Food” host.

The libations menu, which will run patrons $12 to $14 per drink, sounds ideal for an after-work drowning or casual evening of sipping. Whiskey, cognac, vodka, gin, pisco — the gang’s all here! The Charleston, Kaffir Lime Pie, Cucumber Cooler and the Sweet Tart all sound divine, as does the absinthe menu. And for those who prefer to steer clear of classic cocktails, wine and beer are also available.

Tila and partners Mike Lee, Jack M.Y. Lee and Trey Martin welcomed Angelenos to the joint Thursday night at 10pm, showing off the 1930s-style aesthetic, entertainment, eats and beverages.

House of Vibe All Stars will take The Charleston stage tonight at 9pm.

Let’s see a show of jazz hands of those planning to check out the new Westside locale.