photo: The Downtowner
Join us for no-host cocktails at one of Los Angeles’ oldest bars (right around the corner from Cicada Club in the Oviatt Building)! The Golden Gopher building dates back to 1905, but according to researcher ericbrightwell.com the earliest evidence of a liquor business in the space, is 1916 when it was Edward O’Neil Retail Liquors. In a newspaper in 1938, there is a record of a Minnesotan signing a lease on the space to open a restaurant and cocktail bar. Given that the Golden Gophers are a Minnesota college football team it would be logical to surmise that the Minnesotan is responsible for the name.
The bar holds a grandfathered historic dual liquor license that allows it to run a small carry out liquor store within the bar. No food is served at the Golden Gopher, but they don’t mind if you bring it in. You can order for delivery to the bar or stop by one of the local restaurants for take out. On the same block, are Uncle John’s, CA Chicken Cafe and Shake Shack to name a few eateries.
In 2004, the bar was purchased and renovated by the 213 Hospitality Group, now known as Pouring with Heart.
As we mingle with old and new friends, we look forward to conversations about historic Los Angeles, vintage clothing and cars, home restorations and much more! The Golden Gopher also boasts retro video games - but not retro enough to be from our era of interest!
This gathering is free, but you are on the hook for food and beverage you wish to consume.
Traditionally, the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles members gather once a month in an historic building with a bar, to socialize and revel in the beauty of historic architecture. It is our duty to patronize businesses in historic buildings! We welcome interested persons to join us.
This no-host cocktail gathering is open to members and non-members alike, and no reservations are required to attend. Vintage or vintage inspired cocktail attire is suggested. Look for our volunteer greeters if you are new to our group. They look forward to meeting you and introducing you around!
PARKING:
We have been told that there is a parking lot behind the Golden Gopher on Hill Street before 8th, that is $8 at night. If you plan to go to Cicada later in the evening, you can park for Cicada and walk over.
photo: Downtown LA