So many places to drink and so little time. I’m getting a little behind so I’ll just list the bars, lounges and dives I’m thinking of checking out to keep track of everything. If you have any suggestions, I’d love to hear them.
Blue Goose Lounge: The first time I heard of this place was on Yelp. Seems like every Yelp gettogether lately is scheduled at this particular Hollywood lounge and the Yelpers fawn all over it in their reviews. So I definitely have to give it a look-see. Stiff drinks, karaoke and friendly staff — sounds promising.
The Foundry on Melrose: Ferget the expensive food, I want to check out the “award-nominated cocktail list” I’ve heard so much about. The Mexican Radio cocktail of tequila, triple sec and raspberries sounds fun.
Glow Bar: I want to visit this lounge in Marina del rey not so much for its $14 specialty cocktails but more for its setting of comfortable couches and firepits in an outdoor courtyard before the balmy weather completely disappears. Lovely. Their cocktail menu lists lots of sweet options, so I think I’ll try either their Bellini martini — peach schnapps, peach puree and sparkling wine — or their Remy sidecar — Remy Martin VSOP, Cointreau, lime juice and sour mix.
The Griffin: This European tavern, by those responsible for The Chalet, just opened up last month and now everyone keeps asking me, “Have you checked out the Griffin yet?” Noooo. I know. I suck. Doesn’t look like there are any specialty cocktails, but there is a vast whiskey and single malts collection and it’s in the vicinity of the Bigfoot Lodge.
One Sunset: Yeah, another too-cool-for-school establishment but what better way to check it out and still walk out with a below-$40 bill than cruising the lounge’s cocktail menu? I want to try that Pearfect Manhattan ($15) with Grey Goose La Poire, Woodford Reserve and Sweet Vermouth. Also that Summer Berry Mojito ($13, Bacardi Rum, blueberries and raspberries, mint and soda) sounds refreshing for a hot night.
R-Bar: Although I hear that this particular K-Town dive charges higher-than-dive prices for its drinks, the happy hour (5-8pm) offers discounts off top-shelf cocktails. There’s also a password to get in, but you just have to call ahead to get it, or sometimes the doorman will give you a hint.