Sunday with Carlitos

Carlito’s Way, 15238 Victory Blvd, Van Nuys, CA
This bar called to me while I drove down Victory Blvd. It was as if the bar hunted me down. The people there looked like they were from The Wild West era and Carlos Castenanos, owner and bartender, immediately made me feel welcome. It felt like everyone there was waiting for me. Sunday afternoon in this saloon felt like a vacation: stress free. The Lakers were playing again, and the happy drunks were enjoying Carlitos’ spirits. There was a raffle, the more drinks the clients drank, the more opportunity there was to win the raffle. I don’t remember exactly what the price was, but neither could the drunks. Jeffrey, a new friend, was a gentleman and offered me his seat, so I could hang near the bar. He said that bars are the only place where people can break the ice without misunderstandings and I agreed with him. Millie, the younger bartender, was good at her job and her smile could knock down any guy’s heart. Carlitos was grilling hamburgers and the smell was inviting to the new people. Millie said that Thursdays were lady’s nights and Fridays were karaoke nights. Definitely, this place had a lot to offer. Black and white pictures were hanging on Carlitos’ walls, celebrities icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Mohammed Ali. There were comfortable red leather couches and stools in perfect condition. Carlitos had all kinds of alcoholic drinks for an affordable price. I couldn’t stay for the raffle due dinner plans but I gave my tickets to my new friend, Jeffrey. He was happy and sad because of my departure. I promised I was coming back soon. Tonight, The Lakers and I won: an unforgettable Sunday.