Robert Spuhler

Exploring new bars in parts of the city that I rarely think of and never visit, while “taste testing” a lot of Old Fashioneds. Getting to share my enthusiasm for fun nightlife. The chicken wings at Ye Rustic Inn. Walking between downtown bars and remembering that Los Angeles is an honest-to-Vishnu city.

It took me four visits to Copa d'Oro to write a full review. The specialty mixed drinks are strong – strong enough that on two of my four visits, I ended up drunkenly trying to show off my knowledge of Italian soccer to young female tourists from Milan (and failing desperately, in the interest of full disclosure). On the third visit, I left my tab open and did not realize for three days that I was missing my credit card. Cocktails made with high-end spirits and fresh ingredients and Nutella panini are both weaknesses for me, evidently.

Jonah and I both have better taste than you. It’s okay. We’re benevolent taste dictators. We spend our evenings out at concerts, art shows, and/or live theater and can intelligently discuss both Canadian indie rock and the rhythm of David Mamet’s writing. However, Lucas and I are both sports fanatics and can appreciate a PBR tallboy, and Emma and I have been spotted reveling in the brilliance that is Thai Elvis.

I would start out at the Overland Café in Palms for brunch and bottomless champagne, then head to Griffith Park for a round of golf. Next would be an early drink at Bar 107, and then the bleu cheese fries at Pete’s Café. Back on the road and down to Carson to take in a soccer game at the Home Depot Center, before finishing up at Saints & Sinners back when it was still open. During off-season, substitute the soccer with a concert at The Satellite or a play at the Mark Taper Forum.