Verdugo
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Phone: (323) 257-3408
- Cross Street:
- Avenue 34
- Hours:
- Tue-Sun 8pm-2am
Editorial Review for Verdugo – by Tara de Lis
In Short
Nestled in a quiet enclave just a stone's throw from the Glendale Freeway, this sophisticated beer bar has emerged in a neighborhood that has been more than ready for its arrival--it's rumored that locals would drive by during construction, constantly inquiring about its debut. Then, it opened and closed almost immediately due to a permit issue. Open now for extended weekend hours, the result is a smart-looking lounge with just the right amount of design--think handsome beamed rafters, black-lacquered diamond patterns and an antique oak bar--to lure scruffy barhoppers from nearby Eagle Rock and Highland Park. While night crawlers may come for the novelty of uncharted drinking territory, they also stay for the beer--there are more than 65 selections of artisan brews, with 18 taps.
Hits: Brew lovers will go bonkers for the selection here--it's first rate. The vibe is hip and loungey, and there's none of the door drama that accompanies Hollywood bar outings. Smokers dig the backyard picnic table scene. vibe of the patio.
Misses: Though there is a full bar, it's not the main draw, and the specialty drink sticker shock might be a turn-off to anyone not into brewskis. Street parking usually isn't a problem, but anyone who counts only on valet service may be frustrated.
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Insider Tips
Look GoodThe bar has one of the few take-home permits in the city, allowing it to sell beer to-go, much like Golden Gopher in Downtown L.A.. All beer selections from the menu are available at list price.
What to DrinkIn addition to the wide array of brews like Czechvar, Speckled Hen and Gouden Carolus (Grand Cru of the Emperor), there's also a small, well-chosen wine list, as well as a full bar.
On the MenuThe bar itself serves no food, but there are occasional caterers who show up with taco trucks, hot dog carts and mobile sushi. There's no set schedule for when they will appear, so call ahead.
User Reviews for Verdugo
03/31/2008 Posted by callmenovak
I was hesitant the first time my girlfriend told me about the Verdugo. I tend to frequent places that make me feel comfortable and are close to my house (I live in Highland Park). The second I walked up to the door, I knew that this was going to be one of my regular weekend destinations. It's hidden, which makes it secretly cool. I love the jukebox at The York, The Golden Gopher, 7 Grand, and The Old Towne Pub, but you can't dance at any of those places. The Verdugo doesn't have a jukebox, but the music on Friday nights will make you get up and dance. There is a huge smoking patio in the back and a lounge room that is great for groups. I prefer to hang out at the bar, I get drinks faster that way. People go for the beer selection, I go for the heavy handed scotch pouring. Parking is slim if you get there after 10pm, unless you have an 'in' with the door guy. The crowd is usually pretty 'fun-loving', and the bartenders are great. Put your dancing shoes on or not, but it doesn't hurt to try something new. And in this case, you may find yourself going back again and again. Word.
Pros: Crowd, Music, Great Hidden Location
Cons: Parking
02/28/2008 Posted by roob3
Two stars because they DO NOT serve stiff drinks. I'm not a beer drinker so maybe some people will enjoy their selection, but if you are looking for cocktails, this isn't the place. The owners won't even allow the bartenders to serve Long Islands? What bar does that? So when you end up ordering a Jack and coke you end up getting a weak drink that will run you about $7 to $8. Not really worth it....
Pros: Welcoming, clean space
Cons: WEAK DRINKS, small,
