Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio

Alhambra, 121 S Garfield Ave, Alhambra, CA 91801 | ★ 4.9 (71 Review)

📞 +1 626-458-8868

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About the Club

Where the World Comes to Dance

In the heart of Alhambra, Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio has stood as a pillar of dance excellence since 1990. Now celebrated as the largest ballroom dance studio in Los Angeles, Lai Lai has evolved into an international hub where passion, rhythm, and culture converge.

With a legacy spanning over three decades, the studio is a vibrant meeting ground for both global champions and local dance lovers. World-renowned professional dancers regularly grace its floors—offering inspiring performances and sharing their craft through expert instruction.

Conveniently located just steps from City Hall, the Police Department, and the Post Office, Lai Lai is easy to access and provides ample free parking for all visitors

Photos

 Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio
 Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio
 Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio
 Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio
 Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio
 Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio

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Reviews

Artur Vashchuk

★ 5

Great dance studio with best teachers!! Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Amy Feng

★ 5

Dancing at Lai Lai ballroom has been a great experience. We had private lessons with Vlad for our wedding first dance and it was wonderful! Vlad is so knowledgeable and approachable and was very patient throughout all sessions. He tailored our first dance to the song of our choice and in any style we preferred. Having a good teacher really makes the whole experience more fun and enjoyable. We both didn’t know what to expect going into this because we had no prior ballroom experience. After our lessons with Vlad we feel confident and ready to take on the stage with our first dance. Regardless of your experience level, I highly recommend Vlad if you’re looking for lessons! He’s a great teacher and he was so nice to work with!

Source: Google

Lauren Cai

★ 5

My fiancé and I have been together 11 years and this was our first dance class ever. For the longest time we weren’t even going to do a first dance for our wedding purely out of stage fright. We reached out to Vlad just one month before our wedding, and he was very kind, patient, and professional. Scheduling with him was very easy. He never made us feel bad for being last-minute, he just jumped right in with encouragement and great ideas.

I think my first conversation with him started with “Can you make something super easy because we know nothing?” and he completely went above and beyond and delivered. Vlad is such a skilled and adaptable instructor who made us shy beginners feel comfortable. He broke everything down, worked with us separately and together, checked in often, and tailored the choreography to fit our comfort and vision. He was so cool about us sending him inspo videos and then incorporating it into our lessons!

Every lesson with him was fun. There wasn’t a single night after class when my fiancé and I didn’t say, “That was such a good class.,” “We should totally do this again in the future,” and “Thank god we have such a good teacher!”. We are still in shock that we learned over two minutes of choreography and still can’t believe we are doing some of these moves. Our 20 year old college selves would be proud.

What started as something we thought we would dread became one of the activities we both looked forward to most during our hectic weeks and one of the highlights of our entire wedding planning season. Vlad brought so much joy and confidence to the process - his positive reinforcement really gave us the confidence we needed. This is exactly what every shy bride and groom need for their first dance. It was worth every dollar and definitely one of the better financial choices we made during this wedding season. We’re so grateful to have had him as part of our wedding story and we are so happy with how everything turned out. Thank you, Vlad!

Source: Google

Wilson Lam

★ 5

A stunningly updated space with high-end touches and a welcoming community—all at a price that makes enjoying dance easy and accessible.

Source: Google

Natalie Palmgren

★ 5

Lai Lai is such a FIND. The ballroom is spacious, clean, and well-maintained. The rotation of instructors is incredibly experienced, each bringing their own strengths in style and technique. It's a sweet, welcoming community. I highly recommend Lai Lai if you want to learn ballroom from the best.

Source: Google

Sarah Zhai

★ 5

Lai Lai Ballroom & Dance Studio is a gem for anyone looking to dive into ballroom dancing in Alhambra! The studio boasts two spacious dance floors (a massive 60x40 ft main floor and a smaller 18x73 ft one), which means there’s plenty of room for lessons and practice without feeling cramped. The instructors are top-notch, with world-class credentials from places like China, Ukraine, and South America. Their expertise really shines in the group classes, which are affordable and welcoming for beginners and seasoned dancers alike.

The atmosphere is vibrant, and the studio’s commitment to fostering a sense of community is evident, especially after their inspiring community dance events. My only minor gripe is that the schedule for group classes could be more varied to accommodate different skill levels, but overall, it’s a fantastic spot to learn and grow as a dancer. Highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the area!

Source: Google

Lily Yan

★ 5

Lailai to me and many of my dance friends is more than a dance studio, it is a sanctuary.

The space is vibrant and inviting, the staff are kind and attentive, especially the owner B&B, whose hearts shape this place. Talents and passion flows through the studio like music, choices and dedication unfold like choreography, I felt most alive when I am dancing here.

I owe the dancer I’ve become to Ilie.
He teaches not just with skill, but with soul. His patience, knowledge and love for ballroom dance have kept the fire inside me burning. He gently pushed me past my limits, helped me find new ones, and believed in me even when I don’t. To me, he is the very best. And he’s not alone. Lailai is home to extraordinary and world class instructors in Latin, Rhythm, Smooth, and Standard. Twice a year, they bring us together for themed showcases that feel like family reunions, something my dance sisters and I cherish and look forward to, again and again.

If you love to dance, or even if you’re just curious, come and check it out, Lailai is where something truly beautiful begins💃🏻🕺🤩.

Source: Google

Kristina K

★ 5

Great space to get introduced to ballroom dancing

Source: Google

John Ward

★ 5

Lai Lai Ballroom & Studio is a gem in Alhambra for anyone interested in dance! The studio is clean, spacious, and has a great setup with two dance floors, which makes it perfect for both group classes and private lessons. I’ve been taking their Latin dance classes, and the instructors are super knowledgeable, breaking down steps in a way that’s easy to follow, even for beginners like me. The group classes are lively and a great mix of fun and learning, though I wish they offered a few more evening sessions for those with busy schedules. The atmosphere is friendly, and it’s inspiring to see such a tight-knit dance community. Definitely recommend Lai Lai if you’re looking to dive into ballroom dancing or just want a fun new hobby!

Source: Google

Noble 67t

★ 5

Really nice dance place and to learn.

Source: Google

Trevor McCarthy

★ 5

Great place, good dances to see, and such.

Source: Google

Benny Co

★ 5

I have been going to LaiLai to practice with my dance partner, take lessons with Liya and Roman, as well as teach my students going on 2 years now. It’s a great place with an open floor space. The staff are friendly. I was able to meet other dance teachers and students as well. They’ve built a great business with a great community.

Source: Google

Kung Kao

★ 5

I has been toLailai for 30 years.. this is the best in town for learning ballroim dance. T
ake advantage of this....

Source: Google

Michael Nguyen

★ 5

I started dancing at Lai Lai Ballroom 10 years ago, in my 30s, with zero experience — and it has truly been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. This studio isn’t just a place to dance; it’s a place to grow, to challenge yourself, and to be inspired. The floor here has a history, a soul — you feel it every time you step onto it. Generations of dancers have trained at Lai Lai, and the legacy is real. Whether you’re a beginner or aiming to compete, you’ll find world-class instruction, a welcoming community, and a studio that feels like home. There’s no place like Lai Lai.

Source: Google

David Wang

★ 5

Me and my wife have been dancing in Laila ballroom dance studio for 20+ years , we’ve enjoyed group classes and private lessons , the knowledge of these teachers are incomparable . The instructors range from national to international champions .

Source: Google

Lillian Wang

★ 5

I’ve been at Lai Lai ballroom dance studio for more than 20 years now . The level of dance instructors are A+ , from national champions to world champions . The floor is spacious and has a great bounce . Group classes packed and full of information .

Source: Google

Iaroslav and Liliia Bieliei

★ 5

Great studio! It has been our top place to practice during our professional dance career.

Source: Google

Alexandra Bella

★ 5

Absolutely love this studio! It’s huge, clean and has so much parking (which is very rare in the Los Angeles area). I’ve been taking lessons with Ilie for a while now and he’s so knowledgeable and so good at what he does. I selfishly don’t want you to hire him as your teacher but I also urge you too if you want to be a really good dancer. Highly recommend him and this studio!

Source: Google

Anna Zotova

★ 5

Lai Lai is an outstanding place to learn ballroom dancing! Instructors are not just fantastic dancers, they’re fantastic teachers.
All the classes, workshops and parties are top notch!!
Definitely highly recommend it!

Source: Google

Feng Huang

★ 5

Source: Google

c ora

★ 5

來來是一個很棒的跳舞空間 有專業的老師
也會不定期舉辦活動 能感受到很用心經營
沒事就到那邊聽聽音樂跳舞 💃

Source: Google

Michelle Bouse

★ 5

I miss this ballroom. I was so impressed with the owners 3 years ago when I started training here. Great floor space and amazing level of instructors coming in and out. They do a gorgeous design for all shows/showcases and the students are so welcoming. I never felt intimidated like you do at some high level studios. I moved out of state and miss practicing here. If you haven’t stopped in check it out. Plenty of parking and lots of great places to munch (walkable) in between classes and lessons. I loved spending the day here.

Source: Google

Lin Tung

★ 5

Source: Google

Michael Bernstein

★ 5

Lai Lai is truly incredible! I've been coming for years to see friends dance and it's truly a hub for creativity and amazement. They have a versatile space with an amazing staff and atmosphere. If you are looking for a place to dance, run - do not walk - to Lai Lai!

Source: Google

Xiusa Xiusa

★ 5

The best dance studio in the area. Well organized, lots of class options and very high quality of dance instruction. Definitely recommend to anyone to come and start learning all kinds of dancing!!💃🏼🕺🏻❤️💝

Source: Google

Summer C.

★ 5

Source: Google

andy lustria

★ 5

Thank you so much to Brenda for letting us rent the place for my event . Studio has a very huge dance floor brand new floors and The bathrooms are very clean and newly renovated. The place can occupy lots of people from 300 to 400 guest I believe.
The owner Brenda and staff are very accommodating and kind . The place is very beautiful and lots of parking around .
Im very happy that I chose this place for my big events . I would always have my party here because everything that i need is here and I would recommend this place to anyone I know who would need a place for Party.

Source: Google

Sophia Tsoi

★ 5

Lai Lai Ballroom dance studio is the birth place of my dancing journey. Never had any dance lesson of any kind, I had my very first one there. I was learning the rumba walk just like a baby taking the first step.

Thanks to the dedication and patience of my teacher (the first, one and only 🥰) Stefan Virlan, and the loving advice and support of my coach Liya Kazbekova, I have now advanced to the open gold level in Latin. The teachers at Lai Lai are very friendly and generous. There are always laughters on the dance floor (especially when Ilie Bardahan is there 😂), sharing of little tips and advices.

There are days you walk in to the ballroom surprised by the scene of world class professionals dancing rounds in styles of ballroom, Latin, rhythm and smooth. A private showcase that’s both mesmerizing and inspiring. The energy they generate encourages you to work harder with a purpose. The qualities of teachers at Lai Lai are superb.

More than a studio where you build your dancing skills, Lai Lai is also a place where you cultivate friendship. My life has become more enriched and vibrant because of the friends I met there.

I have precious memories from all the biannual showcases at Lai Lai. Thanks to the commitment of Brenda Tsay in making every event a special one for the dancing community in San Gabriel Valley.

Source: Google

C S

★ 5

Love this place! LaiLai Dance Academy is full of energy, passion, and amazing instructors. The classes are fun, professional, and super welcoming.learned so much and always leave feeling inspired. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Sabrina Cooper

★ 5

I’ve been going to Lai Lai for about two years. Everyone I have ever met there has been amazing. The space is large and welcoming.

Source: Google

Alice Yu

★ 5

Nice ballroom place, many professional, dancer practice here, and have different group lessons, I like dance here.

Source: Google

Chris Cho

★ 5

Great studio to learn and teach! I've been an instructor here since the shooting at star 2023. The owner and staff of lai lai has been most welcoming to me and my students. It's great for people of all ages that want to learn social to competitive dancing. Cheers 🍻 👏🏼 ✌🏽 see you on the dance floor. 🕺🏻 💃🏼

Source: Google

Jing Zhu

★ 5

Welcome to Lailai take private lesson or group class

Source: Google

Marek Klepadlo

★ 5

Great place to learn dancing, this place has been around for many years and carries great reputation. Your go-to place for all kinds of dance. Highly recommend 🙌🏼

Source: Google

Accounting Department

★ 5

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San Marino Coworking Spaces

★ 5

Source: Google

Christin Macapagal

★ 5

Lai Lai Ballroom Dance Studio is more than just a studio -- it's a community filled with passion, drive, and heart at every step.

I danced here for five years and during that time, I was fortunate enough to win two championships in my category. But beyond the trophies, what made my experience was the environment. From the moment you walk in, you're met with positive energy and genuine encouragement. Peers uplift each other, cheer each other on, and admire one another's progress. It's rare to find a space where ambition is so deeply rooted across all ages, yet balanced so beautifully with support and camaraderie.

The studio itself is spacious and thoughtfully designed, especially considering that it's one of the few in the area without a large beam awkwardly planted in the center of the floor. That means you get the freedom to move, spin, and perform routines without restriction.

What makes Lai Lai even more special is its story. This locally owned family business was born from the grandmother's love for ballroom dance. That love blossomed into a sanctuary where people of all walks of life could come together to learn, grow, and share in that same joy. You can feel her spirit and legacy in every corner of the studio. To this day I believe she still dances occasionally.

If you're even remotely curious about joining this beautiful dance family, I highly recommend attending one of their events. They host fantastic showcases that highlight both student and instructor performances just to see what you're getting yourself into.

Though I've since retired from dancing, the good and the bad, Lai Lai was my home for five years. This studio doesn't just teach dance -- it cultivates passion, fosters community, and celebrates every little victory along the way.

Source: Google

Alexa Tsay

★ 5

Lai Lai Ballroom in Alhambra is a fantastic venue that offers much more than just a beautiful space. I’ve really enjoyed the dance classes here—they’re fun, engaging, and welcoming to all skill levels. The instructors are professional and make learning enjoyable, whether you're a beginner or have some experience.

I highly recommend Lai Lai Ballroom for anyone looking to try dance classes or host an event in a welcoming, well-run venue.

Source: Google

David Schall

★ 5

Lai Lai Dance Studio is hands down the best dance studio I’ve found in LA—and I’ve tried a lot.

After bouncing around from one dance class to another all over the city (from the big-name studios to the smaller indie spots), I had almost given up on finding a place that actually felt welcoming, fun, and offered high-quality instruction. But the moment I walked into Lai Lai, I knew this place was different.

The instructors here are phenomenal. Every single one brings their own style and energy, but they all share one thing: they care. They’re not just going through the motions or showing off. They take the time to break things down, offer personal feedback, and make sure everyone in the room feels included—whether you’re a total beginner or more advanced.

You can tell they love what they do, and it’s infectious. I leave every class smiling, sweaty, and weirdly more confident—not just in dancing but in general.

Also, the vibe here is just unmatched. No pretension, no cliques, no intimidating energy. Everyone’s here to learn, laugh, and just move. I’ve made actual friends in class, which never happened at other studios where it felt like everyone was in their own world.

If you’ve been searching for a dance studio in LA that’s the real deal, this is it. Lai Lai isn’t just a dance class—it’s a whole experience. Trust me, you’ll feel it the second you step inside.

Source: Google

Rossettell 626

★ 5

Beautiful studio nestles in Alhambra, professional instructors and all levels are welcome

Source: Google

Kathrine Braxton

★ 5

I took a beginners class as someone who doesn’t know anything about ballroom dancing, and it was so much fun!! it’s also cool. It’s also cool how this place has been around for more than 30 years!

Source: Google

Cassidy Mace

★ 5

Amazing studio highly recommend!

Source: Google

Avni Parikh

★ 5

Five Stars — A Studio with Heart, Strength, and Purpose

I absolutely love Lai Lai Ballroom Studio! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the warm and professional staff. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about dance, which makes every class both fun and enriching. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced dancer, they meet you exactly where you are and help you grow with confidence. The studio itself is beautiful and well-maintained, with plenty of space to move freely. I’ve learned so much and always leave feeling energized and inspired. Highly recommend to anyone looking to learn ballroom or simply fall in love with dance!

Lai Lai Ballroom Studio is more than just a dance space — it’s a powerful community rooted in resilience, healing, and joy. In the wake of unimaginable tragedy, they’ve not only continued to bring people together through dance, but have become a symbol of strength and advocacy for the AAPI community and beyond.

The instructors are talented, kind, and deeply committed to fostering connection, confidence, and wellness through movement. Every class radiates warmth and dedication, reminding us that dance can be both a form of celebration and resistance.

Lai Lai isn’t just a ballroom — it’s a place where people come to feel safe, seen, and inspired. I’m forever grateful for the courage, grace, and heart this studio brings to the world.

Source: Google

Mandy

★ 5

lai lai is a rock in the ballroom dance community!

Source: Google

Monique Greene

★ 5

Great place. Would recommend!

Source: Google

Cat S

★ 5

Lai Lai Dance is more than just a dance studio—it’s a warm, welcoming community! The instructors not only bring incredible talent and energy, but also offer such genuine hospitality that you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. Whether you're new to dance or returning after a break, this is the perfect place to grow, move, and connect.

Source: Google

Lauren M

★ 5

I can’t say enough good things about Lai Lai Ballroom! A good friend of mine dances here, and after visiting, I totally get why they love it so much. The energy is so positive, the instructors are super talented but also really welcoming, and the whole place just makes you feel at home. They offer tons of classes for all levels, and the studio itself is beautiful and really well taken care of. Whether you’re new to dancing or have been doing it for years, Lai Lai is the place to be. Highly recommend checking it out!

Source: Google

Gwen Peterson

★ 5

Love this Studio, nice and friendly instructors and a great place for beginners to learn how to dance. Would definently recommend.

Source: Google

Angela F

★ 5

Took my first dance lesson here & it was at a very good pace. I didn’t feel lost or disheveled. It was very easy to follow and the instructors would come by one on one to work with you if they see you are struggling. I felt very welcomed, even though I had not danced before. Everyone else I talked to said they had been there for many years and they loved coming there for classes. Apparently this dance studio has the best variety of classes with the top top professionals in the LA area.

Source: Google

Vladislav Ogurtsov

★ 5

Such a beautiful studio in convenient location near restaurants and entertainment facilities in downtown Alhambra.
Friendly front desk and nice teachers.
Super easy for beginners.
Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Julio Finalet

★ 5

Lai Lai ballroom was an all around amazing experience. I went for salsa classes and was impressed by the quality of instruction I received as well as the general vibe of the students and staff. An overall welcoming atmosphere made for an easy learning environment to hone my salsa skills.

Source: Google

Jessica Johnson

★ 5

This place has great classes with quality teachers. I love taking classes here. The space is nice and the instructors are very knowledgeable and easy to learn from.

Source: Google

stefan

★ 5

Source: Google

M L

★ 5

Lai Lai is a gem (dance studio) hidden away in downtown Alhambra. Yes, it’s also the home of Brandon Tsay, the hero who fought an attacker and saved lives.
Lai lai has high quality instructors (professional, patient) many who are champions and nationally ranked in styles of ballroom, Latin, smooth, and rhythm. And there are many world class guest coaches.
Group classes are offered (see schedule), and there are two main showcases a year (March, November) complete with creative theme, most recently was an Egyptian theme, Barbie theme had Undersea theme! (Brenda is the events coordinator) . So much fun and rich in learning. Come in for a visit! The staff and atmosphere is chill and welcoming.
On a personal note. I am a Latin pro am student and train with Ilie Bardahan (amazing). Ive participated in showcases, and compete in California and across the country. I started with zero dance experience and enjoy dance so much. Please check out the photos.. Find your joy.
My IG is @MLSdancejourney
Best regards. ❤️💃
Marilyn Lim

Source: Google

Enjoy Life

★ 1

I'm sure this place is awesome but today I witnessed something that made me feel very uncomfortable. I was parked in the parking lot in the back of your building and there was man that appeared to be a instructor being really aggressive, physically at times with a woman that was either a student or another instructor. Honestly I was about to call the police at one point. This man needs to not work with people if this is how he interacts with anyone especially women. I have a video of the situation if the owners want it sent to a email. Link to video👇

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ysx8em6jExMibkjVA

Source: Google

Budwa Geechild

★ 5

Love love 💘 this place
Happiness grows here

Source: Google

Peter Kim

★ 5

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Ya Huei Chu

★ 5

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Steven Dong

★ 5

Nice friendly place for ballroom dancing classes and social dances

Source: Google

Allen Hsieh

★ 5

This is a nice and clean place to dance your night away. Good music too

Source: Google

Tony Vuong

★ 4

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

Source: Google

David DuVal

★ 5

It seems like there's Sunday afternoon tea dance is especially good and there's a lot of people attending to dance. There's still enough room to dance though.

Source: Google

Joan Deng

★ 5

Nice ballroom dance studio. Have tea parties and night parties almost every day.

Source: Google

Wei Shaw

★ 5

跳舞的地方门票不貴.一年多沒有運动.去來來可以運动.中年以上的朋友跳舞.是很好的運动跳舞的人都帶口罩.很安全.休閒娛樂好地方.不跳舞時可以聽音樂

Source: Google

Liya Kazbekova

★ 5

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Iaroslav Bieliei

★ 5

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Richie Longomba.

★ 5

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simon wang (金字塔)

★ 4

Dancing with the new friend here 🤗💋❤🐙🐻

Source: Google

Dorothy McElrath

★ 5

Wonderful big dance floor (for lessons or whatever) and dances every night.

Source: Google

Vladimir Okunev

★ 5

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Cherie Saravan

★ 5

Source: Google