This vegan-friendly bar/restaurant along Sunset Blvd has taken over what was once an old Vaudeville theater, redesigned to feature lofty, vaulted ceilings and light fixtures that might have come from a dressing room. The emphasis here is California-made, namely wine, spirits and beer. Where tap dancing routines may have once been, an impressive fleet of 72 beers on tap—all from California brewers (save for one monthly featured out of state brewery)—are at your beck and call. Beer enthusiasts can grab a seat at the communal table or expansive bar. Snag a spot outdoors if you don’t mind the hum of Sunset; inside, head for a booth or the real aesthetic draw—the massive indoor brick fireplace, which sets a romantic dinner atmosphere in the spacious back room.
Vitals
Good for: Groups and weekday dinner/drinks with friends. It's also fun to fly solo at the bar that faces the open kitchen with a custom-designed wood stone pizza oven. You might get a chance to chat baseball with executive chef Mike Garber as he plates the signature dish: Buffalo Style Cauliflower with vegan "bleu cheese" dressing. Or just sip your beer and take in the action while snacking on perfectly crisped sweet potato fries with maple chipotle aioli.
The scene: A super casual crowd with no dress code and plenty of spatially appropriate options are perfect for small and large groups.
The playlist: Brunch on weekends is a must when a live jazz band performs in the back room.
The bartender says: The dynamic and attentive staff help navigate the extensive beer list or suggest a seasonally appropriate cocktail.
Drink this: The menus change with a constantly rotating beer list—easy on the wallet too—and seasonal cocktails all made with spirits from California craft distillers. Try the Hot Dutchman made with gin, fresh lemon juice, housemade cilantro-chile syrup and egg whites. There are also a few options for wine on tap, like Napa Valley Trefethen Chardonnay.