Eastside Luv, 1835 E. 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA
The bar is located next to Mariachi Plaza; it has a rich history which makes it one of a kind. Guillermo Uribe is the owner and a visionary. He is the reason why Eastside Luv is so attractive, especially to the Chicanos. Charley, the bartender, looks like he was born to work at this place. He was friendly and funny and gave me free Eastside Luv’s stickers. This sexy bar had George Yepes’ Art, a Chicano artist, which creates a Latino ambiance on the walls. That night, Willie Herron and Sid played music, and frankly it was amazing. Willie Herron used to be in a band called “Los Illegals” and Sid was part of a punk band called “The Brat”. Both of them are very talented people. The bar’s décor was done with lots of love; every detail is like a piece of art. The bar itself is made out of solid wood and is situated slightly submerged on the main floor. This creates the sensation that the customer is six inches above the bar and the bartender. Eastside Luv had all kind of alcoholic beverages, the stools near the bar are comfortable seats, and there is a cigar machine which would tempt even the pickiest of clients. There was a patio for the smokers, which is appealing to anybody because a fireplace made it cozy and relaxing. The chandeliers gave a gothic touch to the place. Charley said Saturday’s are Burlesques Nights which apparently is a popular event. This bar makes its own sangria called “Sangrona” and the beer menu was remarkable. While I was on the patio, Sid approached me for a cigarette. He was friendly and he reminded me of the boy next door. Sid didn’t have much time to talk to me because his performance was about to begin. That night was “Open Mic” which was like karaoke; the difference was the talent involved. Unfortunately, I had to leave early; however, love was in the air and I am planning to be in love with it again.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Hop Louie treat
Hop Louie, 950 Mei Ling Way, Los Angeles, CA
The bar is an Asian treat: a Pagoda Bar with traditional décor. Bill, an older Asian and skinny bartender, was friendly and made me feel welcome. Sean, the younger Asian and bigger bartender, was funny and serviceable. That night, “The Singers”, an unusual band, made its grand debut. The place was packed with a unique crowd: music lovers, artists, drunks, bohemians, foreigners, locals, and newcomers. Originally, the show was at 7pm but the drummer got into a car accident. Nevertheless, the show must go on and at 8pm it began. This band had 8 singers, a drummer, a bass player, a guitarist, an organist and a conductor. The curious dress code made them original. I must admit: “The Singers” group rocks. This tiny bar was packed and more people kept coming inside, but it didn’t feel bumpy, rather the opposite: cozy. Sean served lots of alcoholic beverages to the clients during the show; however, he never stopped dancing to the rhythm of the music. Sean wore a Hop Louie t-shirt; it appears that a client wanted to purchase one. Shawn said it’s a collector item; unfortunately, it is not longer for sale. The customer said he will get it on eBay and Sean laughed. Hop Louie Bar had a third floor, which was a restaurant and it had good reviews. Bill said the bar opens daily from 4pm to 2am. I loved this bar; it wasn’t just because of the Pagoda exterior, it was the great energy that radiated from it. “The Singers” group was very entertaining, I like their choice of music and the followers were fascinating. “Gan Bei” to Hop Louie!
The bar is an Asian treat: a Pagoda Bar with traditional décor. Bill, an older Asian and skinny bartender, was friendly and made me feel welcome. Sean, the younger Asian and bigger bartender, was funny and serviceable. That night, “The Singers”, an unusual band, made its grand debut. The place was packed with a unique crowd: music lovers, artists, drunks, bohemians, foreigners, locals, and newcomers. Originally, the show was at 7pm but the drummer got into a car accident. Nevertheless, the show must go on and at 8pm it began. This band had 8 singers, a drummer, a bass player, a guitarist, an organist and a conductor. The curious dress code made them original. I must admit: “The Singers” group rocks. This tiny bar was packed and more people kept coming inside, but it didn’t feel bumpy, rather the opposite: cozy. Sean served lots of alcoholic beverages to the clients during the show; however, he never stopped dancing to the rhythm of the music. Sean wore a Hop Louie t-shirt; it appears that a client wanted to purchase one. Shawn said it’s a collector item; unfortunately, it is not longer for sale. The customer said he will get it on eBay and Sean laughed. Hop Louie Bar had a third floor, which was a restaurant and it had good reviews. Bill said the bar opens daily from 4pm to 2am. I loved this bar; it wasn’t just because of the Pagoda exterior, it was the great energy that radiated from it. “The Singers” group was very entertaining, I like their choice of music and the followers were fascinating. “Gan Bei” to Hop Louie!
Mandrake's Bar
Mandrake’s Bar, 2692 S. La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
This bar has it all: a friendly bartender, an awesome DJ, a spacious dance floor, and lots of interesting characters. Mandrake’s owners are an artsy couple from N.Y that knew the need for a bar in the area. There are several art galleries in the radius and the art exhibitions attract the people that love art and alcoholic beverages. Vish, the bartender, told me that happy hour was from 5pm to 7pm everyday. Zachary, the bus boy, was friendly and informative about any question I had. That night, Cielo, the DJ, played 80’s music and a video projected on a screen that complemented each other to create a fun atmosphere. The crowd at Mandrake was eclectic, which I haven’t seen in a long time. Glen, a distinctive guy, was difficult to miss among the crowd because of his peculiar style. He wore big reading glasses, oversized jeans, had a Beatle hair style, and a contagious smile. I couldn’t help myself but to approach him. He was very gracious and let me take many pictures of him. Glen said that he was an inventor; frankly I could see that. While I was conversing with Glen, a photographer took a picture of the two of us. The photographer was well-mannered and gave me his business card. Mandrake bar began to feel like Studio 54. Cielo kept doing her magic and everyone was on the dance floor. People danced like there was no tomorrow. I went out to the patio where the crowd was very different - they were all smokers. They were not anti-socials; on the contrary, they talked to each other like they were one big family. The place was surprisingly fun, considering the infrequent location. Mandrake’s Bar was like a flavorful meal - a blend of sweet nuts with a spicy touch.
This bar has it all: a friendly bartender, an awesome DJ, a spacious dance floor, and lots of interesting characters. Mandrake’s owners are an artsy couple from N.Y that knew the need for a bar in the area. There are several art galleries in the radius and the art exhibitions attract the people that love art and alcoholic beverages. Vish, the bartender, told me that happy hour was from 5pm to 7pm everyday. Zachary, the bus boy, was friendly and informative about any question I had. That night, Cielo, the DJ, played 80’s music and a video projected on a screen that complemented each other to create a fun atmosphere. The crowd at Mandrake was eclectic, which I haven’t seen in a long time. Glen, a distinctive guy, was difficult to miss among the crowd because of his peculiar style. He wore big reading glasses, oversized jeans, had a Beatle hair style, and a contagious smile. I couldn’t help myself but to approach him. He was very gracious and let me take many pictures of him. Glen said that he was an inventor; frankly I could see that. While I was conversing with Glen, a photographer took a picture of the two of us. The photographer was well-mannered and gave me his business card. Mandrake bar began to feel like Studio 54. Cielo kept doing her magic and everyone was on the dance floor. People danced like there was no tomorrow. I went out to the patio where the crowd was very different - they were all smokers. They were not anti-socials; on the contrary, they talked to each other like they were one big family. The place was surprisingly fun, considering the infrequent location. Mandrake’s Bar was like a flavorful meal - a blend of sweet nuts with a spicy touch.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
The Troubadour and The Zeros
Troubadour, 9081 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA
This is a popular place for music lovers and people that like a cutting edge scene; the venue is historically rich and has serious music fans. Inside the bar however it’s very laid-back. The Troubadour opened in 1957, since then, well known musicians have performed in this location, and it continues to help showcase the new talent. That night, Troubadour presented the legendary band “The Zeros” that plays punk music. While I made my entrance into this fabulous location, security told me to throw my gum out, the reason was: it’s dangerous! The entrance had a bar nearby and there were two doors next to it. I entered through the doors and by surprise, loud music hit my ears. The music was a bit unbearable to me, so my first reaction was to find a place to sit. It didn’t take me long to find the second bar located in the back. There were two friendly bartenders, both with great language skills. Although noisy, they understood their client’s beverage requests. Apparently, whatever happened in Troubadour stayed in Troubadour with the exception to my story. As I tried to find a seat, “The Zeros” began to play. People went wild and the place was loud, however, it was fun. It was effortless to find a seat to enjoy the show. In an instant the noise changed into music and I couldn’t keep still. Consequently, I danced and I became a real punk. The bar was busy all the way till closing time. I had a blast along with people that liked music in a historical building. I didn’t talk much because it was loud; nevertheless, speaking wasn’t necessary for a connection.
This is a popular place for music lovers and people that like a cutting edge scene; the venue is historically rich and has serious music fans. Inside the bar however it’s very laid-back. The Troubadour opened in 1957, since then, well known musicians have performed in this location, and it continues to help showcase the new talent. That night, Troubadour presented the legendary band “The Zeros” that plays punk music. While I made my entrance into this fabulous location, security told me to throw my gum out, the reason was: it’s dangerous! The entrance had a bar nearby and there were two doors next to it. I entered through the doors and by surprise, loud music hit my ears. The music was a bit unbearable to me, so my first reaction was to find a place to sit. It didn’t take me long to find the second bar located in the back. There were two friendly bartenders, both with great language skills. Although noisy, they understood their client’s beverage requests. Apparently, whatever happened in Troubadour stayed in Troubadour with the exception to my story. As I tried to find a seat, “The Zeros” began to play. People went wild and the place was loud, however, it was fun. It was effortless to find a seat to enjoy the show. In an instant the noise changed into music and I couldn’t keep still. Consequently, I danced and I became a real punk. The bar was busy all the way till closing time. I had a blast along with people that liked music in a historical building. I didn’t talk much because it was loud; nevertheless, speaking wasn’t necessary for a connection.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Alteno Bar, a package deal!
Alteno Bar, 8554 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA
This bar was a true Mexican experience: the music, the decorations, the bartender, the owner, the drunks and the TV shows were all Mexican. Karen, the bartender, was sweet and courteous. She served everyone and kept on smiling. Jerry, the owner and another bartender is also from Mexico. He seemed to like the “Santos” soccer team from Mexico; the big logo was on the wall near the bar. Jerry was entertained by the Mexico-Canada Beach soccer game playing on television. Mexico was winning, and the clientele kept on drinking and laughing, creating a happy atmosphere. The jukebox played Jenny Rivera music, and people sang as if there was a live concert in the bar. Karen said happy hours are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 6pm till 2am, and beers are as low as $3.00. As everyone watched the game, I contemplated more details on the wall, like the “Che Guevara” painting. The bar definitely had a Latin influence, and it showed all over. Alteno Bar provides the drinking clientele with pool tables and foosball tables; however, the bar was entertaining enough. Karen was bilingual, and she helped to facilitate the conversations among clients as they enjoyed their drinks. The bar didn’t neglect any details in creating a comfortable environment. For anyone who wants to enjoy a drink and a trip to Mexico, Alteno Bar is the place to go. The only requirement for this package deal is just to walk into the venue. That night, I had to leave early for another engagement. Nevertheless, next time I feel like going to Mexico, all I have to do is drive to Alteno.
This bar was a true Mexican experience: the music, the decorations, the bartender, the owner, the drunks and the TV shows were all Mexican. Karen, the bartender, was sweet and courteous. She served everyone and kept on smiling. Jerry, the owner and another bartender is also from Mexico. He seemed to like the “Santos” soccer team from Mexico; the big logo was on the wall near the bar. Jerry was entertained by the Mexico-Canada Beach soccer game playing on television. Mexico was winning, and the clientele kept on drinking and laughing, creating a happy atmosphere. The jukebox played Jenny Rivera music, and people sang as if there was a live concert in the bar. Karen said happy hours are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 6pm till 2am, and beers are as low as $3.00. As everyone watched the game, I contemplated more details on the wall, like the “Che Guevara” painting. The bar definitely had a Latin influence, and it showed all over. Alteno Bar provides the drinking clientele with pool tables and foosball tables; however, the bar was entertaining enough. Karen was bilingual, and she helped to facilitate the conversations among clients as they enjoyed their drinks. The bar didn’t neglect any details in creating a comfortable environment. For anyone who wants to enjoy a drink and a trip to Mexico, Alteno Bar is the place to go. The only requirement for this package deal is just to walk into the venue. That night, I had to leave early for another engagement. Nevertheless, next time I feel like going to Mexico, all I have to do is drive to Alteno.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Footsie's stop
Footsie's Bar, 2640 N. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA
This bar is like a neon light in a pitch dark night. It is located on a busy street and parking was available at the rear of the venue. The outside looked modern and inviting, the inside was dark and gothic but interesting and comfortable at the same time. As I walked through the doors of Footsie's, I heard the melodic voice of Marvin Gay: “Can I Get a Witness”. At that precise moment, I knew I would like the bar. I sat near the bar as usual, and Chris, the bartender served me a beverage. I looked at his cast and he said he broke his arm while using a urinal. He seemed upset so I didn’t ask for any details about the incident. The music was getting better and better, this time it was Earth, Wind and Fire: “Brazilian Rhyme” that was playing. A couple from Honduras sat next to me. They were friendly and immediately we began talking about life. Nancy drank a Malibu-Pineapple and Marco drank a Vodka Tonic. Nancy’s job was in human resources and she lived nearby. Marco was a good friend of Chuck, the other bartender; he also was friendly and popular among the clientele. Chuck said Footsie’s happy hours were from 4-8pm, seven days a week. Chuck’s friend walked into the bar just to remind him about the next day when they have a trip planned to Altadena, a waterfall place called “Eden’s Garden”. I wanted to know more about this awesome place but suddenly, Guillermo from Colombia, interrupted the conversation to introduce himself. He said he is a regular at this place and he studied journalism, but now he manages music bands. He added that music is an international language; in fact, he leaned to play the guitar at age eight. He said he manages five bands and that his favorite band is “Fela Kuti” from Nigeria, that makes Afro beat music. Unexpectedly, Chuck announced “Last Call” and everyone ran to get their final drink. To finish, Guillermo said he likes Los Angeles because of the weather and diversity of cultural events, which I couldn’t agree with more. Shortly after the last drink, Footsie's was ready to close the doors for the night. This fabulous place was a warm experience, similar to a family reunion. Footsie was to be found on a busy street but it’s a perfect pit stop for any thirsty driver.
This bar is like a neon light in a pitch dark night. It is located on a busy street and parking was available at the rear of the venue. The outside looked modern and inviting, the inside was dark and gothic but interesting and comfortable at the same time. As I walked through the doors of Footsie's, I heard the melodic voice of Marvin Gay: “Can I Get a Witness”. At that precise moment, I knew I would like the bar. I sat near the bar as usual, and Chris, the bartender served me a beverage. I looked at his cast and he said he broke his arm while using a urinal. He seemed upset so I didn’t ask for any details about the incident. The music was getting better and better, this time it was Earth, Wind and Fire: “Brazilian Rhyme” that was playing. A couple from Honduras sat next to me. They were friendly and immediately we began talking about life. Nancy drank a Malibu-Pineapple and Marco drank a Vodka Tonic. Nancy’s job was in human resources and she lived nearby. Marco was a good friend of Chuck, the other bartender; he also was friendly and popular among the clientele. Chuck said Footsie’s happy hours were from 4-8pm, seven days a week. Chuck’s friend walked into the bar just to remind him about the next day when they have a trip planned to Altadena, a waterfall place called “Eden’s Garden”. I wanted to know more about this awesome place but suddenly, Guillermo from Colombia, interrupted the conversation to introduce himself. He said he is a regular at this place and he studied journalism, but now he manages music bands. He added that music is an international language; in fact, he leaned to play the guitar at age eight. He said he manages five bands and that his favorite band is “Fela Kuti” from Nigeria, that makes Afro beat music. Unexpectedly, Chuck announced “Last Call” and everyone ran to get their final drink. To finish, Guillermo said he likes Los Angeles because of the weather and diversity of cultural events, which I couldn’t agree with more. Shortly after the last drink, Footsie's was ready to close the doors for the night. This fabulous place was a warm experience, similar to a family reunion. Footsie was to be found on a busy street but it’s a perfect pit stop for any thirsty driver.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
The Fan-Tastic horses
Hollywood Park, 1050 S. Prairie Ave, Inglewood, CA
To celebrate life in a horseracing track was a terrific experience for me. “Fan-Tastic Fridays” at the track are: beers for $1.00, hot dogs for $1.00, sodas for $1.00 and the possibility of wining lots of money. The Hollywood Park is more than a Hippodrome; it is a part of history. Unfortunately, the city of Los Angeles is closing the venue for good, and that’s a shame. The park was opened to the public on June 10, 1938. Shareholders were movie stars like Bing Crosby; directors and producers like Sam Goldwyn and Walt Disney. The Hollywood Park featured legendary horses like Seabiscuit, Citation, Round Table and many others. After costly expansions and renovations, the Hollywood Park was one of the most attended places in Los Angeles. Worldwide, times are tough and Hollywood Park is no exception to this period. The memories will last forever; I only wish the place would too. I was excited to walk into a place where champions and heroines had unforgettable performances. I was surrounded with history and people who enjoyed the beer for $1.00. I couldn’t ask for more! On the 5th race, I won $8.20. The horse’s name was Annihilation and sounded like a winner to me and it certainly was. I kept betting and the drunks kept drinking. It was a marvelous time! Drunks kept getting louder and louder, but they were still friendly and the bars were packed everywhere. Cashiers and bartenders were part of the entertainment as well; they were lucky charms for many of the people. The combination of the skylight with the elegant horses was praiseworthy. The 8th and final race was exciting but this time I didn’t win anything. Here at Hollywood Park the winners were the horses, the breeders, the drunks and everyone in attendance.
To celebrate life in a horseracing track was a terrific experience for me. “Fan-Tastic Fridays” at the track are: beers for $1.00, hot dogs for $1.00, sodas for $1.00 and the possibility of wining lots of money. The Hollywood Park is more than a Hippodrome; it is a part of history. Unfortunately, the city of Los Angeles is closing the venue for good, and that’s a shame. The park was opened to the public on June 10, 1938. Shareholders were movie stars like Bing Crosby; directors and producers like Sam Goldwyn and Walt Disney. The Hollywood Park featured legendary horses like Seabiscuit, Citation, Round Table and many others. After costly expansions and renovations, the Hollywood Park was one of the most attended places in Los Angeles. Worldwide, times are tough and Hollywood Park is no exception to this period. The memories will last forever; I only wish the place would too. I was excited to walk into a place where champions and heroines had unforgettable performances. I was surrounded with history and people who enjoyed the beer for $1.00. I couldn’t ask for more! On the 5th race, I won $8.20. The horse’s name was Annihilation and sounded like a winner to me and it certainly was. I kept betting and the drunks kept drinking. It was a marvelous time! Drunks kept getting louder and louder, but they were still friendly and the bars were packed everywhere. Cashiers and bartenders were part of the entertainment as well; they were lucky charms for many of the people. The combination of the skylight with the elegant horses was praiseworthy. The 8th and final race was exciting but this time I didn’t win anything. Here at Hollywood Park the winners were the horses, the breeders, the drunks and everyone in attendance.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
4th of July treat
Private Home, Malibu, CA
Partying with good hearted people and drunks for the 4th of July was a treat for the stressed soul. The home was situated in a beautiful area in Malibu. As the waves splashed up on the sand and the summer breeze touched our skin, the home owners served us the best selection of alcoholic beverages I had ever seen, and the food was out of this world. Everyone seemed shy in the beginning but it didn’t take long for all of us to feel at home. I met lots of people, and quite frankly, I liked all of them. Morgan, a photographer from Canada, told me about the movie “Blow up”. Apparently if I want to know about photography the film will provide me with a complete explanation of it. Patty and Agatha (two good friends who met each other in London), were funny and after a couple of Agatha’s special drinks, they danced like great performers. Prudencia, the teacup Chihuahua, was also having a great time. “Prude” wore a pink sexy dress which provoked jealousy among the women. Tim from Switzerland, now living in Seattle, said his parents came to the United States because of spiritual reasons. I said to him that he obviously didn’t follow his parent’s steps in spiritualism; he laughed and said his brother drinks more than he does. Samy and Daniella, another nice couple, relaxed and enjoyed the weather. More people arrived and everyone drank like there was no tomorrow. We kept on partying and towards the end of the night, magic tricks and poker sounded perfect. First the magic tricks: Samy performed a toothpick trick that he made disappear. Esthella did a card trick which was impressive, particularly when she couldn’t remember how to do the trick. Poker was a bit more competitive; especially when people lost their funds and mysteriously money reappeared from nowhere. Patty’s famous quote was: “When you talk to me, talk to my eyes and when you talk to my eyes, talk to me twice”. Indeed! The 4th of July was fun and interesting and it wouldn’t have been possible without the “firecrackers” that I spent my Independence Day with.
Partying with good hearted people and drunks for the 4th of July was a treat for the stressed soul. The home was situated in a beautiful area in Malibu. As the waves splashed up on the sand and the summer breeze touched our skin, the home owners served us the best selection of alcoholic beverages I had ever seen, and the food was out of this world. Everyone seemed shy in the beginning but it didn’t take long for all of us to feel at home. I met lots of people, and quite frankly, I liked all of them. Morgan, a photographer from Canada, told me about the movie “Blow up”. Apparently if I want to know about photography the film will provide me with a complete explanation of it. Patty and Agatha (two good friends who met each other in London), were funny and after a couple of Agatha’s special drinks, they danced like great performers. Prudencia, the teacup Chihuahua, was also having a great time. “Prude” wore a pink sexy dress which provoked jealousy among the women. Tim from Switzerland, now living in Seattle, said his parents came to the United States because of spiritual reasons. I said to him that he obviously didn’t follow his parent’s steps in spiritualism; he laughed and said his brother drinks more than he does. Samy and Daniella, another nice couple, relaxed and enjoyed the weather. More people arrived and everyone drank like there was no tomorrow. We kept on partying and towards the end of the night, magic tricks and poker sounded perfect. First the magic tricks: Samy performed a toothpick trick that he made disappear. Esthella did a card trick which was impressive, particularly when she couldn’t remember how to do the trick. Poker was a bit more competitive; especially when people lost their funds and mysteriously money reappeared from nowhere. Patty’s famous quote was: “When you talk to me, talk to my eyes and when you talk to my eyes, talk to me twice”. Indeed! The 4th of July was fun and interesting and it wouldn’t have been possible without the “firecrackers” that I spent my Independence Day with.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Ole to Rivera
Rivera, 1050 S Flower St #102, Los Angeles, CA
This place had a Spanish melody in the air with a warm inviting touch. The bar enchanted me. Every corner was well arranged by the owner John Rivera and partner Eddie Sotto. The bar seemed to have a special devotion to tequila because the venue offers its own house tequila, grown and distilled in Mexico. For the small membership price of $2,500 Rivera will provide you with your own personalized bottles. That’s right your name on a bottle of the oldest tequila in the world and Rivera will lock and store it for you. Regardless of how busy the venue might get, members are guaranteed a reservation any time, any day, for life. There were different rooms like “Tequila de Mujer”, a tribute to all women, and “The Sangre Room” with two walls displaying the member’s personalized bottles of tequila, for Rivera’s members only. Another room at Rivera “The Samba Lounge and Playa Bar” provides “Tequila Chairs” comfortable seats which have special trays from which people can enjoy the latest tequila offerings. The host was friendly and let me do my usual survey of the place and he filled me in on everything I needed to know. Although I didn’t have the privilege to enjoy a beverage in this location, it is on my “must do” list before I die. My lasting impression of Rivera was their true appreciation of living well with taste.
This place had a Spanish melody in the air with a warm inviting touch. The bar enchanted me. Every corner was well arranged by the owner John Rivera and partner Eddie Sotto. The bar seemed to have a special devotion to tequila because the venue offers its own house tequila, grown and distilled in Mexico. For the small membership price of $2,500 Rivera will provide you with your own personalized bottles. That’s right your name on a bottle of the oldest tequila in the world and Rivera will lock and store it for you. Regardless of how busy the venue might get, members are guaranteed a reservation any time, any day, for life. There were different rooms like “Tequila de Mujer”, a tribute to all women, and “The Sangre Room” with two walls displaying the member’s personalized bottles of tequila, for Rivera’s members only. Another room at Rivera “The Samba Lounge and Playa Bar” provides “Tequila Chairs” comfortable seats which have special trays from which people can enjoy the latest tequila offerings. The host was friendly and let me do my usual survey of the place and he filled me in on everything I needed to know. Although I didn’t have the privilege to enjoy a beverage in this location, it is on my “must do” list before I die. My lasting impression of Rivera was their true appreciation of living well with taste.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
got cork
Cork Bar, 403 W 12th St, Los Angeles, CA
This bar is a California wine experience. Cork Bar’s design is both trendy and minimalist. The service and the food combine are a rich experience. Frankie, the busboy, was helpful with all the questions I had. There were two more bartenders, Elizabeth and Monique, even though they weren’t as friendly as him, they seemed like good workers. Cork Bar is fairly new; however, they already have a steady clientele. I arrived for happy hour, and the appetizers were half price. I was impressed by how flavorful and creative the food was. The beer selection was as great as the wine menu. Frankie said there was 50% off any bottle of wine to go. The idea of it is very smart, particularly for people that are in a hurry. Frankie felt like an old friend, I sat by the bar and he was there any time I needed him. He told me that the young crowd comes to sip a good glass of wine after work. According to Frankie, the owners are fun people and easy to work for. I asked him about different drinking hangouts, and he told me a bunch of them; I wrote it all down, but he seemed very content with what Cork Bar provided me with. Right on front of the Cork Bar, is a bar looking place, unfortunately it is not what it appears to be. The area is very inviting to those who want to experience something new and something tasty. I said goodbye to my new friend Frankie, although, I knew for a fact that we’ll see each other again, at least during the 11 pm happy hour.
This bar is a California wine experience. Cork Bar’s design is both trendy and minimalist. The service and the food combine are a rich experience. Frankie, the busboy, was helpful with all the questions I had. There were two more bartenders, Elizabeth and Monique, even though they weren’t as friendly as him, they seemed like good workers. Cork Bar is fairly new; however, they already have a steady clientele. I arrived for happy hour, and the appetizers were half price. I was impressed by how flavorful and creative the food was. The beer selection was as great as the wine menu. Frankie said there was 50% off any bottle of wine to go. The idea of it is very smart, particularly for people that are in a hurry. Frankie felt like an old friend, I sat by the bar and he was there any time I needed him. He told me that the young crowd comes to sip a good glass of wine after work. According to Frankie, the owners are fun people and easy to work for. I asked him about different drinking hangouts, and he told me a bunch of them; I wrote it all down, but he seemed very content with what Cork Bar provided me with. Right on front of the Cork Bar, is a bar looking place, unfortunately it is not what it appears to be. The area is very inviting to those who want to experience something new and something tasty. I said goodbye to my new friend Frankie, although, I knew for a fact that we’ll see each other again, at least during the 11 pm happy hour.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
hypnotized by the bar
Figueroa Hotel, 939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA
Travel to an exotic country without catching a flight, that’s a dream come true. This hotel provides exactly what the doctor ordered. The ambiance is very seductive because of the Arabic influence in the historical building which adds a touch of mystery. The patio and the bar area seem like they are from a black and white movie. I was hypnotized by my own imagination. This hotel opened in 1925 as a YMCA and turned into a hotel after the Depression. I went to the pool area so I could get a glimpse of the sunset while I sipped my beverage. I was so relaxed and happy for the pure existence of a place like this. Ken, my friend, grabbed me by the hand and together we explored every corner of the hotel. Just like two little kids, we were running all over the place, as if the world was about to end and time was against us. We couldn’t get enough of the place, every little detail was fabulous. Ken went to get more beverages and a stranger said to me: “look at the moon!” I was impressed by how in tune we all were, either strangers or not: we loved it all! Ken’s martini was big and it sounds as if he enjoyed every sip of it. The music was very suitable to the ambiance because it was Middle Eastern. Ken said the rooms are as great as the hotel appearance and apparently affordable too. He was ready to try a new bar despite the fact that we were in heaven; in reality there were other interesting places nearby. Living a high life means different things for lots of people, to me it means being in a place with a personality. This place has it, and it’s a refined one.
Travel to an exotic country without catching a flight, that’s a dream come true. This hotel provides exactly what the doctor ordered. The ambiance is very seductive because of the Arabic influence in the historical building which adds a touch of mystery. The patio and the bar area seem like they are from a black and white movie. I was hypnotized by my own imagination. This hotel opened in 1925 as a YMCA and turned into a hotel after the Depression. I went to the pool area so I could get a glimpse of the sunset while I sipped my beverage. I was so relaxed and happy for the pure existence of a place like this. Ken, my friend, grabbed me by the hand and together we explored every corner of the hotel. Just like two little kids, we were running all over the place, as if the world was about to end and time was against us. We couldn’t get enough of the place, every little detail was fabulous. Ken went to get more beverages and a stranger said to me: “look at the moon!” I was impressed by how in tune we all were, either strangers or not: we loved it all! Ken’s martini was big and it sounds as if he enjoyed every sip of it. The music was very suitable to the ambiance because it was Middle Eastern. Ken said the rooms are as great as the hotel appearance and apparently affordable too. He was ready to try a new bar despite the fact that we were in heaven; in reality there were other interesting places nearby. Living a high life means different things for lots of people, to me it means being in a place with a personality. This place has it, and it’s a refined one.
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