Went to check out the new bar Johnnie’s in Highland Park/Eagle Rock on Sat night. My good friend Gina started bartending that night and invited us down for a drink or two or three. This is a hidden gem, in an otherwise non-descript area. Surrounded by a body shop, a run down dentist office, and not much else. The street had very little life, despite this one bright spot. You get the feeling that this is the place locals will be coming for years to drink and forget the day’s woes.
The bar’s owner, Zach was as nice as they come. He even bought us a round of drinks, gave us a quick tour of the bar and patio out back. He’s been fighting with the Mayor’s office for a couple of years now to open up his bar. His original idea was to open up a coffee shop in the neighborhood (he lives near the place), but he decided to re-open Johnnie’s instead. His hard work has paid off.
It’s a mellow Saturday night, a deer head looks over you as you order your drinks from the friendly bartenders. Gina pours a stiff drink and makes a mean Bloody Mary. People play pool and watch the bizarre nature videos being projected against the wall. We all look around and smile at each other, happy and content to call Johnnie’s home for the night and hopefully many more to come.
Johnnie’s Bar
5006 York
Highland Park, CA
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