Sometimes you want to go…where everybody knows your name…

Choosing a bar in California is relatively new for me. I’ve visited a few, mostly restaurant-bars where food is the focus. However, I hadn’t yet explored a true bar-bar, where drinks are the priority.

One Sunday evening, craving craft beer and chicken wings, I searched online but found nothing appealing. Then I remembered LiveDeal, a real-time marketplace for local deals, had launched in Los Angeles. Browsing their listings, I stumbled upon Basement Tavern.

The name intrigued me, evoking the image of a cozy Cambridge pub. Seeing Jerk Chicken Wings at the top of their menu sealed the deal. Arriving at the address, I was confused. It led to The Victorian, an upscale venue hosting a wedding. A bewildered me asked the valet for help. “Around the corner to the left, all the way in the back,” he directed. Basement Tavern was indeed in the basement, accessed through a rear stairwell behind the kitchen. It felt like entering an exclusive secret society.

Stepping inside, I was transported to a warm, welcoming British pub. We initially chose a dark corner table, but I quickly decided the bar was better. Ronnie, the weekend manager and bartender, greeted us with enthusiasm despite the busy Happy Hour crowd. “Can I start you all off with drinks?” he asked eagerly, marking the beginning of a great rapport.

I’ve spent the following two Sundays at The Basement and even went last night. I plan to return this Sunday for reggae night. Join me sometime, and I promise you’ll enjoy the drinks, food, and live music. You might even spot a celebrity or two.

Andre Barry at The Basement Tavern on 17 November 2013

Will Magid – African Herbsman – at The Basement Tavern on 24 November 2013

Will Magid – at The Basement Tavern on 24 November 2013

More Will Magid at The Basement Tavern on 24 November 2013

John Wayne Bro on 05 December 2013

Bodhi Rock Reggae on 05 January 2014

Basement Tavern at The Victorian
2640 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 396-2469
info@basementtavern.com

Hours: Mon thru Sun. – 5:00pm to 2:00am
Live Music 7 Days a Week

Happy Hour: Mon-Sat  –  5p – 8pm

All Day Sunday

• $3 Beers
• $5 Wine & Wells
• Half off all Food

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Basement Tavern: An Unexpected Haven for Drinks, Food, and Music