Summer in the city (or even more dangerous, the Valley) can be brutal - both visually as it marks splotchy spray tan season and physically as temperatures skyrocket to the high 90s. Sweet salvation awaits you in two forms: 1.) 6 pack chocolate frozen éclair bars 2.) Night out in seaside Venice. Both involve a bit of stickiness but your gut has got to tell you if Venice works for Hank Moody then Venice works for you. Otherwise, please take it up with Hank.Many Los Angeles proper residents dismiss Venice as one big Hot Topic store. However, the Lords of Dogtown have been replaced by the Kings of Leon (more specifically, their fans). Abbot Kinney Boulevard is still home to a bustling artist/skater/”dude” contingent yet it is surprising to note how many yuppies (mmm!) are invading Dogtown and upping its fancy schmancy rating.
A scrumptious bar that bridges both vintage Venice and new Venice is “The Brig” (1515 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice). Don’t let the outside in your face cartoon-esque sign fool you (oh and it will), once inside it feels as though you’ve been transported to someone’s intimate, stylish living room. HGTV would sooo approve. Mega size glowing harvest moon chandeliers fall from the ceiling and plush drapes adorn walls. Seating is sprinkled throughout the bar to allow you to kick back your heels and scope out the scene.
Tuesday nights are generally cranking as they host smashing bands, so crank and smash away with the westside’s finest. The Brig is also prime playing ground for the game of “manhunt.” On most nights its packed with about 68% fellas (please note that the percentage is dependent on scientific variables e.g. if I have consumed 68% Corono), so happy manhunting.
Generally though, the place is flooded with a feast of friendly chaps to chat up…Marina Del Rey businessmen (complete with dress socks), Manhattan Beach surfers (can I get a “yo bro”) and west side dudes (hipsters & skaters representing!). I once even saw a guy chilling at the Brig in his wetsuit. Still unsure if he was rocking the wetsuit attire to protect him from the icy Pacific or from the frothy Pacifico? Overall, a fabulously fun spot to bring your date or meet a new one! So see you at the Brig…and don’t forget to bring your wetsuit!
Written by: Meredith McKenna - SpeedLA Dating Resident Blogger
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