Dork on York on York
There is a serious water (-ing hole) shortage in Northeast LA. Despite their hipster enclave status, I’m always surprised that there aren’t more places to drink in thriving cultural hotspots like Eagle Rock and Highland Park. The recently opened York on York attempts to correct the problem.
The “neighborhood gastropub” is located about halfway between Figueroa and Eagle Rock Blvd. in the increasingly popular small stretch of York that also includes Johnny’s, Marty’s, and Highland Park Billiards. Last Saturday night, the bar was so crowded, people were lined up three deep to order a drink.
A quick once-over of the décor seems to verify that the owners intend this to be a more upscale establishment than The Wild Hare - the bar that used to inhabit the same spot. High, high ceilings, hanging exposed light-bulbs, and dark brick walls will have some people screaming about gentrification, but you probably won’t be able to hear them over the din of dressed-up locals shouting their drink orders.
more review and photos after the jump
Despite the hectic atmosphere, the bartenders are surprisingly attentive. The Martini’s are nice and strong. The beer selection is inspired. For a reasonable price, you can order Craftsman Lager and Kronenberg 1664 on tap, or giant bottles of Delerium Tremens and Hobgoblin dark English ale. Giant chalkboard menus tell us that we can dine on Gem Lettuce with Beets, Fried Goat Cheese, Herbs and Radish, or, if we’re hungrier, a Pulled Pork Cuban Sandwich with Mustard Aioli, Gruyere, Ham, and Pickle.
Huge open windows border the length of the entrance, and make it so you can sit facing the street and feel like you’re outdoors; a nice touch, especially on a hot summer night. Outside, the sidewalk is buzzing with activity. Tamale vendors feed the parade of locals, and musicians busk for change.
For my money, I imagine the bar would be a great stop earlier in the evening, or on a weekday, when it isn’t so crowded. One thing’s for sure, it confirms that there is a serious dearth of drinking establishments in this neck of the woods. York on York isn’t going to solve the problem, but it will put a classy dent in it.
