It’s seen some rough spots in its history – it was a dive and there were shootings – but has since been rehabbed by the current owner and is a beautiful example of what a period bar should be. It of course went legit after 1933, and has been serving ever since. In 1918 the 18 th Amendment tried to put the Kibosh on the fun, so Menotti, the enterprising owner, disguised the place as a grocer and moved the liquor downstairs to the speakeasy (accessed only by an elevator at the time). In fact, when they laid out the plans for Venice, this lot had the label, “bar” on it already, so it was meant to be. This place was opened in 1915 when Venice California was originally created. Our personal favorite is the Townhouse Venice and the Del Monte Speakeasy. This place also claims to be the inventor of the French Dip sandwich, so be sure to try one when you stop by. The bar program is all mixology, with expensive martinis and 20-ingredient cocktails. It’s been beautifully restored and stepping in is like stepping in to 1910. In any case this place is as authentic old Los Angeles as it gets. Now, ironically, the city wants to put the trains back in service. The place was bustling until the 60’s, when LA finally dumped the trains in favor of the always-backed-up Interstate system. stood for Pacific Electric and the building housed the main terminal for Pacific Electric’s train service (called Red Cars). Buffet (ca 1908)Īlso in downtown is this classic - Cole's PE Buffet. That’s the patina of old age you just can’t replicate! Cole’s P.E. In all, the ambience is a bit gritty, kind of like a grind joint in Vegas. The Golden Gopher martini, for example, is Plymouth gin straight up with a cigarette served on the side, and the Low Life is a can of PBR with a well shot. They include an updated cocktail menu with trendy drinks, but most with nods to the period the Gopher hails from.Īt the same time though, some are tongue in cheek glances to the reputation of this place. The Golden Gopher reflects the pre-prohibition era with grace, but much of that is due to its complete renovation in 2004. This downtown classic is billed at the “first dive bar in Los Angeles” and to be honest, they’re probably right.
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