Bar – The Sola Traveler

You’ll Find Spirits with Spirit in West Hollywood

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Hello Buttercups… so the word on the street is that you are some smart cookies. Well of course I knew that, but now the cat’s out of the bag for everyone else you follow? Well of course you do, question is, will you follow me on a little mission? What mission? Well, your mission, should you choose to accept it sweet petites, is to take a little hop off the Isle of Downtown, to an Isle known to those in the know, see, as WeHo. So will you accept it? You will? Wonders never cease! You’re getting braver by the day! What is the purpose of this mission you ask? Well now here’s the thing, if I tell you I have to….oh wait a minute…we don’t do that anymore, phew! I was worried there for a second. Your mission is to sample the delights of two establishments close to the Laemmle 5 movie theater as they pertain to independent film in Los Angeles. Then say that three times fast, or don’t, whatever.

So now then Buttercups Intel below, are two places about which it would be good to know, whether you are film watching or no. These venues were chosen because of their proximity to the Sundance Sunset Cinema movie theater and a delicate equation consisting of; access to good wine and snacks, the sound volume of those around you in said establishments (for conversation purposes) and because the personalities of said establishments are; can you guess? Swank not snotty! So now consider if you will:

Vintage Enoteca!

7554 West Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles CA, 90046. 323-512-5278. Mon – Fri, 12 noon – 12 am. Sat – Sun 11am – 12 am.

Vintage Enoteca is a causal wine bar located about 10 blocks (1/2 mile) east of the Laemmle Sunset 5. There’s parking in the back or take your chances on the street. Once inside you’ll find an airy space with high ceilings and minimalist decor. The lighting is low so it’s intimate but the tables are tall and good for large or small groups.

Goodies for your gut include an array of salads, small bites, pastas, bruschetta, flatbreads and artisan cheese and salami plates. All prices range from $7-$20. The kitchen is adventurous but not too crazy. So there’s something for everyone, sweet petites. Really all your choices here are lovingly made, thus ensuring everything goes down nice and easy.

Libations for your liver! Choose from a wide selection of wines by the bottle or glass, as well as a good selection of imports and domestic craft beers. Choose from Sparkling, White, Rose or Red, prices by the glass run from $9 – $14. If wines’ not your thing dears, look at the menu again and order a beer. Vintage Enoteca has a substantial list of great craft brews from the ol’ US of A and several outstanding imports. And a beer will set you back a paltry $6-$25.

For more info about Vintage Enoteca check out their website: http://www.vintageenoteca.com/

Hotel Chateau Marmont!

8221 Sunset Blvd, (at Havenhurst Drive) Los Angeles CA 90046. 323-656-1010. Open 7am- 2am 7 days a week

Especially nice when the weather’s not. Also a delight when the sun shines bright! Famous in its own right, know when you go, The Chateau Marmont is the blast from past.

Some people live here, so joyfully and politely trip up the cobblestones and through the doors. Now ladies and gentlemen hold your breath and walk upstairs, arriving, in the lobby. Do you feel like you’ve stepped back in time? Do you half expect Marlene or Cary to give you a wink as they glide by? Or are you sitting on the Chateau’s patio and enjoying the garden? Either way it’s lovely and why incidentally the Chateau Marmont is a keeper.

Here you’ll enjoy sustenance where it’s comfortable and quiet and private. The Chateau Marmont has none of the hanging from the chandeliers shenanigans you’ll find elsewhere on Sunset, so behave. If you do you might be lucky enough to meet the handsome Pierre. He will, if invited, sidle up to you sit in your lap, you’ll be forever grateful.

Make no mistake, the Chateau is pricey, but worth it. Please note that the gratuity will be added to your bill. It’s not a club. The Chateau is romance and heavy with history. So when you go, if you can’t go full bore for dinner; enjoy a glass of wine and a little bite or desert at the end of your evening or on a Sunday afternoon. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss. And don’t fear the Chateau is happy to have you, provided you don’t set anything on fire and you are kind to Pierre. The cuisine is continental and you’ll find appetizers hovering between $17 and $30, entrees are $17 to $46. Wines and cocktails vary widely in price. If you are dining, best get a reservation.

Cheers Darling!

Local Los Angeles August 16, 2017

Unwind Above the City by Sitting Down at Perch

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Hustle and bustle best beloved, time’s a wasting. You’re pounding the pavement and kicking the carpet, but it’s gotten stale. Times are tough, and scheming sniveling scoundrels are lurking at every turn. Hitting the street you ask yourself; what’s the scoop here anyway? Your heart is lost in its troubles and rounding a corner full tilt, you nearly bowl over a sprightly gal. Luckily she sees you’re troubled and takes pity on you. Ah beloved, what can you do, but keep your chin up and forge ahead? So said gal leans forward and, with a mischievous glint in her eye, asks you a riddle:

It’s high above the ground, traffic melts away, there’s barely a sound. The Redline is near, right across the street, so it’s easy to get a bite and an aperitif.

The inside is beautiful pulled out of time, the patio is better it’s highly sublime. Look out at the city, the rooftops are aglow. Maybe a hero will drop in, save the day, thwart your foes.

I’m going there now, follow you may. It’s a place little birds sit all night or all day. Come take a breath, get perspective and play.

Where am I going?

You smile, because you already know. You know high above the city a swank establishment sits perched on roof of a building. And like the carefree little birds that fly through the skies you have place to land. A place to get a peck and potable, a place called Perch.

Perch is a French inspired bistro and bar that sits on the top of the Pershing Square Building in good old downtown L.A. The menu is a playful American take on good French standards. Try the Frogs Legs appetizer. Be bold. Just because they taste like chicken, doesn’t mean you should be one. Duck, Duck, Goose is another good option. If you are having an entrée go for the Perch au Noisette. If you fancy desert the Chocolate Pot de Crème with Fleur de Sel and Tart Cherry Caramel will make you change your citizenship. Perch’s menu rounds out with great vegetarian choices; a Sweet Corn and Pea tendril Risotto and hearty salads.

The bar(s) at Perch are equally enticing. If you like an Old Fashioned, get one. Made from scratch with real maraschino cherries it will send your spirits soaring. Well appointed with clever list of house cocktails, liquors, beer and wine; Perch’s bar offers really nice options in every price range. Don’t fret if you aren’t interested in the hard stuff, a little bird let it slip that Perch also serves a mean cup of coffee.

So with rooftop fireplaces to warm your hands, three rooftop bars where you can heat up your social skills and a hot hot kitchen to fill your belly; Perch proves that high above the streets Angelenos have somewhere to soar.

So so, here we go…

Who: Bright and Beloved Baby Birds

What: Perch

Where: The Pershing Square Building. 448 South Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90013. 213-802-1770. http://perchla.com

When: Monday – Wednesday, 4pm – 1am. Thursday – Friday, 4pm – 2am. Saturday, 10am – 2am. Sunday, 10am – 1am.

Why: Life is to be lived.

Know when you go: Perch has Happy Hour from 4 – 6pm. Reservations are strongly recommended for dinner, or take your chances at the bar. Thursday – Saturday, The tippiest top floor of Perch is open to all and has seating for drinks.

Prices: Food runs from $8 – $37. Drink runs from $6 – 8 for beer; wines run $9 – 15 by the glass, wine is also sold by the bottle (prices vary) cocktails run $12- 14.

A la Votre!!

Local Los Angeles August 16, 2017

Shiver Ye Timbers at Redwood Bar and Grill

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Ahoy Me Hearties. Yarr, The winter weather be mighty dripping watery wet. It be stormin’ enough to wash away lily livered landlubbers if ye follow me drift. Aye it’s watery wet enough to wash ‘em straight away to Davy Jones Locker. Yarr! It’s enough to make a wily wench raise a tankard of grog and giggle at ye, sprightly sprogs. Yo Ho Ho! Yo Ho Ho and bottle and of rum in fact mateys. For though there’s enough water in the streets to make y’ landlubbers think yer on the seven seas, ye are in fact inhabitin’ the port of angels. That’s right mateys yer in port, and ye know that means. Ye don’t? Avast! Well then, there’s a waterin’ hole ye’ll be wantin’ to know about. A waterin’ hole where ye won’t be partin’ with too many of yer hard earned doubloons. For legend has it than on the Isle of Downtown there’s a Pirate’s lair fit for even the most polished of privateers. A lair called the Redwood Bar and Grill.

The Redwood Bar and Grill is a Pirate bar in downtown Los Angeles located at 316 W 2nd St. Walking in is like walking into the dark hold of a pirate ship. Where is Errol Flynn when you need him? Hemp ropes wrap around posts, nets hang from the walls, and barrels are placed so that you can set your compass and get into the mood of this well worn establishment. Take a look above the bar and you’ll see a skull and crossed cutlasses. Don’t be frightened… lighten up! These fine frills hint at the fun you are about to have.

Take a seat or slink up to the bar. Luckily for you The Redwood bar and grill is loaded with booty for the belly. No one’s choking down hard tack here. The menu at the Redwood is an extremely well put together selection of pub grub. Choose from really good appetizers, burgers (half a pound served on a brioche bun; yum), sandwiches, fresh salads, nachos, tacos and other miscellaneous pirate fare. Portions are hearty yarr. If your appetite is on the light side, check out their rationed portions (and prices) and decent vegetarian options like their veggie burger or vegetable empanadas.

All good pirates wash down their grub with a little grog so why should you be any different? The Redwood bar and grill has a full bar and a great list of rum cocktails that are as fun to say as they are to consume. Try a Monkey Fist for example, a Sailors Delight or the Davy Jones Locker. Redwood also serves bottled and draft beers. See the bartender or server for their current offerings.

Redwood also has a great line up of live music so check out the calendar on their website and make merry mateys. Just don’t get to rowdy, else you be walkin’ the plank.

Sooo…

Whar? (yarr) The Redwood Bar and Grill

Where ye scurvy dog? 316 W 2nd St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 680-2600. www.theredwoodbar.com

When me beauty? Mon – Sun: 11am – 2 am.

Happy Hour! Mon – Fri: 4pm – 7pm

Doubloons: Food $5 – $14, Cocktails $10 – $13. Beer prices vary but are reasonable.

Down the Hatch!

Local Los Angeles August 15, 2017

Life is Sew Sew Good at Pattern Bar

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Meow, Meow, Meow, Meow, has this catwalk called life got you down? Daaaarlingssss, you can’t let that happen. You can’t let them win. Find a little levity, take a little break, remember your chin? Keep it up. Morosely little monsters do you think you are all alone? Put the pieces together, says a merry little crone. Nay, woman. So round the corner walk this way, follow the crook in my finger, perhaps on a Thursday. There’s a nifty little place with nifty little treats. A DJ spins some music, so while you sip you tap your feet. Standing next to you is a man, let’s call him a bloke. He’s witty and pretty, got some darn good jokes, that keep you in stitches. Are you following the thread? For on the edge of district devoted to fashion sits a swanky little bar that’s well turned out. So in downtown LA, the pieces of your day fit can seamlessly into your night. And this place beloveds, is called Pattern Bar.

Pattern bar is located at 100 West 9th street, where Spring and Main merge. Walk in and unwind on a stool, a wooden sewing stool. At Pattern Bar you’ll find a high ceilinged room, and a laid back vibe. The space is cozy yet airy, with dark wood, big picture windows and mirrors that keep the room open. There are tall tables and columns with ledges for your drink, and a long low table good for groups, or sharing with strangers.

Bring your taste buds for tapas. The menu has a lot to choose from. Take note of the Serranos y Cabrales. It’s plate of dry cured Serrano ham, Gironia salami, brie and port wine derby cheese, served with a selection of breads from Urth Café, that’s great for sharing. If you want something all to yourself, choose from a great selection of paninis and salads. From 12 to 4pm you can also order a gluten free Venezuela corn cake called an Arepa. They are made to order and Pattern Bar serves versions to satisfy both the vegetarian and omnivore in any crowd. Cheesecake rounds out their menu. So whether you’re there for lunch or drinks your tummy is likely to find something it’ll like.

Pattern Bar is well, a bar, so take a look at their lovely drinks. Grab a sangria, it goes down easy. It’s yummy and loaded with fruit, just be careful it doesn’t load you. A nice choice from their cocktail list is; The Jacobs. It’s Jack Daniels Honey, muddled figs, agave, apricot liquor and ginger ale, served up, and not something you find every day. If you are a straight shooter when it comes to libations, Pattern Bar has a small but great selection of beer and wine to choose from. And if booze isn’t your thing check out their selection of sodas and freshly squeezed juice and lemonade.

Prices are reasonable before, during, or after their “Fashionable hour” (5-7pm). So whether you are downtown for Art Walk, lunch, or just because, Pattern Bar is good place to jam.

Sew…

Who? You.

Where? Pattern Bar. 100 West 9^th Street, Los Angeles CA 90015. 213-627-7774. www.patternbar.com

What? A bar…

When? Mon-Thurs, 12 noon- 10 pm, Fri-Sat, 12noon – 2am, Sunday 12noon – 8pm. Happy Hour daily 4-7pm, Brunch Sunday 12noon – 5pm.

Why? Respect

Prices? Food, $6-14, Drink, $6-14.

Salud…

Local Los Angeles August 13, 2017

Roam Near or Roam Far to Far Bar

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It’s in Little Tokyo and tucked away so as you can barely see it. A cunning little passageway, that looks like it belongs to another time and city. But nope, it belongs to now and it’s all yours. It awaits the pitter patter of your glorious feet. Your glorious feet will carry you down this passageway that whispers of fun soon to come. It tells tales of good music and conversation. It whispers of craft beers from an isle far away. It tempts with cocktails and fusion cuisine unseen by you just yet. Maybe you should fix that. Because near the corner of 1st and Alameda is a place that’s pretty darn sweet. It’s a bar that is so close you can taste it. A place so near and yet so… Far Bar.

Far Bar is located at 347 East 1^st Street right on the edge of Little Tokyo and not far from Los Angeles Center Studios, a shooting facility in DTLA. Three spaces make up Far Bar. The Lounge, which faces the street, has tables for dining and is a simple cinematic space with dark wood tables that are partially divided by screens and a small area with low couches where you can take a load off. But wait the adventure doesn’t end here. Venture further in and away from the street. As you move down this path, keep your eyes peeled for a secret sculpture, you’ll know it when you see it. Continuing your journey you’ll arrive at your second destination, The Bar. It’s a small cozy red walled room; again hidden away, so if you hadn’t taken the trip you’d never have found it. Poke your head around the corner and last but certainly not least is the final stop, The Patio. It’s a brick walled and twinkly lighted spot that’s so nice they may have to force you out at the end of the night. Check their website for a list of DJ’s spinning tunes to help you chill out.

In deference to your liver, Far Bar is a full service bar carrying a large array of craft and bottled beers from Japan. The Sapporo Reserve is clean, with a light tangy finish. Another good option is the Ozeno IPA or you could also try the Coedo Kyara. It has medium body with a smoky flavor reminiscent of Miso. You’ll also find a nice selection of great American and European standards and a smattering of Sakes to try. The extensive cocktail menu includes many house specialties and Far Bar mixes a Manhattan that can curl your lashes.

Now there’s one room you can’t visit, but it can visit you; the Kitchen. Far Bar serves up fusion cuisine, a fine eclectic list of small plates, burgers, noodles and sushi. Burger’s are ½ lb, and if it’s on the list they day you go try the sweet chili glazed burger with ginger walnut goat cheese and braised arugula. It’s simple, it’s complex, and it’s good. The Korean short rib tacos are also tasty or try any of the enticing appetizers, skewers or sandwiches. Just don’t wait too long because the kitchen closes 1 hour before the end of each night.

Your odyssey:

Far Bar – 347 East 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. www.farbarla.com 213-617-9990

Your travel times: Sun – Wed 4pm – 1am, Thurs – Sat 4pm -2am

The cost of the ticket:

Food: $6-14

Beer and wine: varies – generally 34 beers on tap

Sake: by the glass or by the bottle $7-$132

Cocktails: vary – generally $10-13

Happy hour detour: Monday – Friday 3-7pm and Sunday and Monday Late night 9pm – close.

Cocktails: $7

Beer of the day: $5, and $2 off all bottled Japanese beer.

Whiskey of the Day: $8

Well drinks: $6

House red or white wine $6

Happy Hour food menu $5

Happy Trails!

Local Los Angeles August 13, 2017

Hop the Rails Back in Time to Cole’s

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All Aboard! Well little pippins it’s time for your sweet selves to slip into the gloaming and hook it to Downtown already isn’t it? So settle in, you beloved raggers and relax. Why? Because it’s time to modernize do you hear? What? Hear. Where? What? Ah. Sufferin’ Suffragettes you aren’t blotto on the satinette already? No? Oh…good. SSshhh! Then sweet little pippins make mumchance your mouths and listen closely to this little tale:

Once upon a time, before the dark time known as The Prohibition; pippins such as your selves gussied up in their frou-frou and sought out a snuggery smack dab in the middle of the city of angels. Thousands passed through the snuggery’s doors. Some, deevie, were passing though from far away. Some were there to stay. It’s said nothing was ever truly expie and this, in part made said snuggery popular. Some were there to imbibe the sack and some the satinette. Regardless, it is known, that whether they were young or old, or simply needed their payroll, many a pippin passed their time at the snuggery called Cole’s.

Open since 1908, Cole’s is a venerable Los Angeles institution. One of two heavy contenders vying for the title of originator of the French Dip Sandwich, Cole’s is a place you won’t want to miss. Especially dear pippins, since Cole’s is now owned and operated by the 213 group. This swank snuggery has been renovated and decor is from the turn of the century. As you approach walk down the stairs; as Coles’ sits slightly below the street, in the old Pacific Electric building. Inside you’ll find Cole’s is cozy and resplendent with original lighting, penny sized tiles on the floor and a large Mahogany Bar.

In said bar, The Red Car Bar to be exact, mosey up and order off their menu of signature cocktails. Heavy hitters include The Old Fashioned, The Red Car, and the Irish Mule. Coles also puts together a mean Pins Cup. There is a detailed list of Whiskeys and Beers. Don’t forget to check their chalk board for wine offerings.

The food menu is limited consisting mainly of sandwiches (French Dip and otherwise), salads and pie. The French Dip is both renowned and tasty and comes with a spicy pickle spear. You can choose from beef, turkey or pastrami. Sandwiches can be ordered as either whole or half and you can order sides. Word to the wise, the side of Cole’s slaw is deevie.

If you’re done filling your belly with Cole’s glorious sandwiches and pie, you can slip, for a spell, back into the dark dark time known as The Prohibition. To do so, just ask your server about Varnish. It’s a speakeasy accessed through the door in the back. And Varnish dear pippins serves cocktails whipped up by a wicked team of mixologists.

So……..

Who? Pippins far and wide…

What? Cole’s

Where?118 E. 6th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014. www.colesfrenchdip.com 213-622-4090

When?

Kitchen – 11am – 9:30pm Sun-Wed, 11am – 10:30pm Thurs, 11am – 12:30 am Fri-Sat

Saloon – Daily 11am – 2am, Happy Hour Mon- Fri 3-7pm

Varnish

8pm- 2am Mon- Tues

7pm- 2am Wed – Sun

Sustenance:

Food: $5-15

Drink: Whiskey – $7-24, Beer – $5-8, Cocktails; $9 – 11, Wine; $7-8

Why?

It’s fittums…