Neighborhood: Santa Monica & Pasadena
Wine bars have been popping up all over LA the last few years, and I like them because they offer a more chill alternative to the beer-soaked bars and crowded club scene. The only problem is they can sometimes be daunting with their lists, descriptions and prices. Let’s be honest, I can’t help but feel like a cheapskate if I simply select the cheapest glass on the menu, but I don’t know enough to justify the 15.00 glass either. La Bodega wine bar removes the stress from the situation. Every glass on their menu is priced the same, allowing you to clearly focus on the vino you want to drink without fretting about comparing numbers. Founded on the respectful principle that you should be able to enjoy wine without feeling like you have to be studied in the subject, the owners of this bar wanted to create a place that feels as relaxed as your living room… while allowing you to get out of the house and go somewhere. They succeeded. Somehow the Santa Monica location manages to feel upscale and hip and relaxed at the same time. Perhaps it’s the lovely sight of seeing the bottles displayed inventively up the brick walls next to home-style lamps and long couches. Community tables allow big groups to gather around them on comfy stools, while corners of the rather large space house more intimate tables for 2. The good news is the wonderful happy hour – where every glass and selected appetizers are only $5.00. Be warned – this gets packed (and loud) with the post-work crowd… yet never feels overwhelming, and the waiters manage to keep their service attentive and warm. If you want to avoid the stampede, but still want the deal – Tuesday night is for you. Named “Andrew Jackson” night, every bottle is sold for $20.00. The food complements the wine list well– no huge surprises here, but again, you can’t go wrong with pairing your bottle with pita & hummus (delicious), a cheese & pepperoni platter (basic & big) or a tasty, simple margarita pizza (small, yet filling enough for two). The simplicity of the menu matches the overall relaxed vibe here – a great way to start your night, or better yet, with these wine deals, why even leave?
COST: Tuesday nights – all bottles $20.00 (about 5 glasses); Happy Hour 5-7 Tue-Sat (weekend happy hour!) and all night Sunday – every glass and selected appetizers are $5.00/every bottle $21.00. DJ spins Thur., Fri., Sat.
LINK: http://www.bodegawinebar.com
NOTES: The above is a review based on the Santa Monica location; check website for Pasadena location specials.
