Los Angeles - July 30, 2004

Gopher Broke

Golden Gopher Bar

Not many bars are worth driving across town for.

Which makes it all the more remarkable that Venice Beachers have been known to venture inland for 4100’s hipster scene and Silver Lakers have westward-ho’d to Liquid Kitty for a martini.

Now the duo that brought you both of the above gives us all reason to head downtown. Cedd Moses and Marc Smith have opened the Golden Gopher on Eighth Street, and it’s the loveliest bar to come along in years. Enter the cavernous space and take your pick of the lounge area, the long bar, or the outdoor smokers’ patio. The decor — dark wood, chandeliers, modern touches next to old-world glamour — is the perfect backdrop for a date or a group outing, while the music varies from ’80s hits at the bar to ’40s tunes in the ladies’ room. Pabst Blue Ribbon is a mere two bucks; well drinks are only four. They even sell cigarettes, condoms, bottles of liquor, and other nighttime necessities.

Definitely worth the trip. No matter where you’re coming from.

Golden Gopher, 417 West Eighth Street, between Hill and Olive Streets (213-623-9044).