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 1st 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