Celebrating a birthday can serve as the perfect excuse to explore the lesser-known gems of Southern California’s coastal bar scene. My recent birthday venture took me and a cohort of friends on a spirited dive bar crawl from Santa Monica to Manhattan Beach, blending revelry with nostalgia for the old-school watering holes that define our regional culture. This outing was not merely about the drinks; it was a quest to appreciate the steadfast establishments that resist the relentless tide of gentrification.
We strategically chose a Saturday in September for our excursion, capitalizing on the sunny Mediterranean climate. The plan was to secure ample daylight, savoring both the ocean breeze and the company of friends while bouncing between bars. The essence of a bar crawl lies in the flexibility it offers—participants can join in when they like, ensuring a lively yet relaxed atmosphere as we traversed the coastline and inland for dinner afterward.
Stop 1: Chez Jay — Santa Monica — 3:25 PM
Our first stop was Chez Jay, an iconic venue since 1959, located just a short stroll from the sands of Santa Monica. A refuge amidst the changing landscape of the city, it welcomes patrons seeking cocktails in a space defined by its red booths and pea soup-colored walls. With a strict ‘no photos’ policy and a floor littered with peanut shells, the ambiance here sets a unique tone. Though the kitchen hadn’t opened yet, the peanuts were generous, and the initial gathering of six people, including my dad and stepmom, created a warm camaraderie as we kicked off the day’s festivities.
Stop 2: Hinano Cafe — Venice Beach — 4:38 PM
Next, we made our way to Hinano Cafe, a staple of Venice Beach since 1962. Known for its informal surfer vibe, it buzzed with energy, filled with locals and day trippers alike. Here, burgers and pitchers of beer flowed amid the youthful crowd, giving an undeniable sense of nostalgia mixed with a twinge of envy as we recalled our own younger days. For $12.50, we split a standard bar burger that served as a satisfying interlude before moving on.
Stop 3: Prince O’ Whales — Playa del Rey — 5:30 PM
A brief trek brought us to Prince O’ Whales, tucked within a small stretch of Playa del Rey. Reflecting the character of a classic sailor's bar, it’s been a favorite among locals for decades. The atmosphere was lively, with college football on the screens and a just-right sunset glow that illuminated the back patio. A grumpy bartender lent authenticity to the experience, as we mingled while sipping drinks and absorbing the essence of a community space.
Stop 4: The Harbor Room — Playa del Rey — 6:01 PM
We made our way to The Harbor Room, touted as the smallest dive bar in Los Angeles. This intimate space felt like stepping onto a vintage ship, its weathered wooden surfaces capturing the rich history of the area. A friendly stranger added some unexpected humor to our evening as we ordered refreshments. I experienced a hiccup in my drink order, but it led to a delightful discovery of a side of warm gin that was surprisingly memorable. Ensuing discussions with amiable locals only heightened the bar's appeal.
Stop 5: The Shack — Playa del Rey — 6:27 PM
With the sun beginning to set, we arrived at The Shack, a quintessential surf bar adorned with that perfect blend of charm and grit that defines its persona. Our time was well spent here as we sampled the Shack Burger—topped with a butterflied hot link, adding a flavorful twist to a classic. The atmosphere resonated with laughter and the camaraderie of fellow patrons, amplified by our collective experiences that evening.
Stop 6: Ercole’s — Manhattan Beach — 7:23 PM
Our final dive stop was Ercole’s, nearing its century mark and recognized widely for its burgers. This establishment resonates deeply with the local crowd, continuously resisting the invasion of high-priced eateries that line the beachfront. With a rustic vibe overwhelmed by nostalgia, it served its renowned cheeseburger, produced from a nearby butcher and served unpretentious style with a simple side of chips. Despite only managing a few bites amidst the clamoring crowd, it was a culinary highlight of the evening, epitomizing the spirited nature of our crawl.
Stop 7: Torihei — Torrance — Not long after 8 PM
To conclude the evening, we moved to Torihei in Torrance, armed with expectations of hearty comfort food. The izakaya-style restaurant provided a warm atmosphere where we dug into simmered dishes alongside skewers of grilled chicken. After a night filled primarily with smaller bites and drinks, savoring their signature daikon delicacies capped off the experience perfectly. By the end of the night, I was back home, content and greeted with the familiar sights of my own space, reflecting on a day well spent.
This dive bar journey reaffirmed my belief in the cultural significance of these establishments as not just places to drink, but as community connectors that bind us to the rich tapestry of Southern California’s history.