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I feel true joy when I’m able to experience the simple pleasures in life. These include loling, warm nights, people thanking me after I’ve let them into my car lane, and chill bars. I get downright giddy when said chill bars include passwords for entrance and a jukebox that plays Elton John, the Violent Femmes AND Smashing Pumpkins.
Thank you, God. I’ve been praying for a place like this.
R Bar is the newest installment from the owners of more familiar digs 4100 Bar, Ye Old Rustic Inn, and La Poubelle. Located in the heart of Koreatown, on 8th and Irolo street, there is no exterior sign to indicate its existence, except a dim red lantern hanging above the entrance.
Walk up the to the heavy wooden door and pull the handle. Quickly you realize that the door is locked. Huh? Is the bar closed? It’s 11:30 PM and I swear I hear music inside! Right after you’re done doubting yourself, a small sliding window opens in the middle of the door and man peeks from behind and says, “What’s the password?” There’s a password? You’re goddamn right there is, so listen up! It’s “yo, ho, ho.” Okay, Rrrr bar, yo ho ho, get it? Admittedly, you may feel cheesy at this point, but don't take yourself so seriously just yet.
Once inside, you enter into what seems to be the interior of a ship, complete with wood paneling, crystal chandeliers, hanging lanterns, wrought iron fixtures, and paintings on the walls. In the back are two open rooms, one with couches and heavy pillows for lounging, and the other room containing booths with tables that could fit a party of six in each. I can always appreciate a place that will allow me and my friends to sit down, especially when it’s not a hassle. In fact, the rooms are so comfy I could conceivably fall asleep while listening to Coldplay. There is a jukebox in the back that plays music from a bunch of great artists including but not limited to Billy Idol, Morrissey, Arcade Fire and Johnny Cash.
If you’re not at the bar counter, a cocktail waitress is always on hand taking orders for drinks and food. Yes, the R Bar has a small menu that contains items such as garlic fries and Buffalo wings, all super tasty and perfect for a late-night snack. The staff is friendly, and includes an Irish bartender that does magic tricks. Truly, there’s nothing more mind-blowing than magic when you’re drunk. I’m pretty sure I’ve accused the guy of selling his soul to the devil at least twice.
Word on the street says that Saturday nights are the busiest, but I would go even then. Street parking is sparse, as well as not suggested. Thankfully you can pull up right to the front and check your car in to valet. Ahh, the sweetness of convenience! Los Angeles is great in that there is always a new restaurant and bar to go to, but it’s rare when you can really find a fun and comfortable spot. Often times lines are long, people are too cool for school, and parking is impossible. Forget all that nonsense and head to K-town. R Bar is perfect for good booze, friends and tunes and who doesn’t love that? I’m in every time.
Dress Code: Baby Hipster/Divey
3331 W 8th St
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Phone: (213) 387-7227
Photo by Sarah Ardalani
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It sounds great. But where is this bar? What is the address? The hours? The dress code? The cost of a drink?
Hey WKRP,
Address & dress code now included in review. Here's the hours:
Mon-Wed, Sun 5:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.
Thu-Sat 5:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m.
Hope that helps!
Copyeditor Carrie
our drink specials for happy hour R great, mon-fri 5pm-8pm and the rest of the time they're very good...THANKS FOR THE GOOD WRITE UP! Love that you love it-R Bar, Hope and Laura