the otheroom

Over the weekend I was back in LA and had the opportunity to return to one of my favorite beer bars on the west side, the otheroom.  OK...so its not exactly your normal beer focused bar.  Rather its an upscale bar/lounge that serves up a nice selection of beer and wine.  The concept started as "the room" in Soho in NYC.  Since then 2 more locations have opened in New York, 1 in Miami, and the otheroom in Venice.  The otheroom combines big city style, hip decor, a laid back crowd and of course good drinks. 

The tap list is always rotating with a few regulars.  This past trip included Bear Republic Racer 5, Rogue, Widmer Pear Cider, and Chimay on tap.  They also feature a number of bottle beers as well.  (I unfortunately decided to get my fill of the Racer 5 and failed to venture out too far.)  There are certainly larger total selections at other places in LA or throughout California, but I really enjoy the ambiance.  It is the kind of place that you can take any of your friends, even if they usually do not like beer focused bars.

Just a word of warning...this location is popular with the locals with lines forming by 11 PM on the weekends.  Unlike lots of LA, there is no list so get there a little early and stay late.  Venice locals cut the line, but hey...they probably invest a good bit of money over time.

Another interesting feature of the bar?  The bartender usually DJs so there is no telling what will be on. 

If you make it to LA and need a place to chill with friends over some good beer, this just might be your place.