Drinks report: The Smokehouse

I'm glad we had to come back through the Valley after going to Minibar, as Hollywood seemed very crowded indeed on a Hollywood Bowl Saturday night. That way, I could take Matt to the Smoke House, which I've been meaning to do for ages. The Smoke House has been serving workers from Warner Brothers and nearby studios since 1946, and I hate to say, but I've been going there nearly that long. Well, not really, but I spent quite a lot of time there as a little girl eating their great garlic toast and Monte Cristo sandwiches because my dad's animation studio UPA was right next door and he ate lunch there every single day for 25 years. After a few very small plates at Minibar, we probably should have ordered a Monte Cristo as well, but another time. Instead we continued the mojito theme because the Smoke House had them on special that night for a remarkable $5.50 each! Since they were twice the size of Minibar's, that makes them one fourth the price, sort of. We hung out watching young Burbank couples on dates, large groups of middle aged ladies whooping it up, and an inordinate number of key grips and best boys wearing baseball caps, shorts and white sneakers while a pleasant jazz combo tuned up. I wish I was a martini drinker, because the worn red leather booths seem to call for very chilled, very dry martinis. I think I'll be back soon for some garlic toast and a few more bathtub-sized mojitos -- who wouldn't be?
Archived comments:
Doran said...
My Dad worked at Warners at lot and I too spent a fair amount of time as a child scarfing down the Smoke House's garlic toast. The last time I was there was (Yikes!) about 30 years ago on my very first date! While the meal was *much* better than the date, I haven't been back. I'll need to correct that.
Miles said...
When I worked at Disney, I used to go at leat a few times a year. It's best around the Holidays. Doesn't matter what holiday. Just go because they do it up. And the garlic bread is to die for.Plus, when I was growing up, my grandparents lived in Toluca Lake and it was the family gathering place.It's not to be missed.
BBQ Junkie said...
How's their BBQ? With a name like Smokehouse they have to have some on their menu.
Anonymous said...
What you haven't been to the SMOKEHOUSE???? Oh, please! Get it together already! First, ask for the BEST batender in the world...HECTOR. He may not remember your name but he will remember your poison! Mixes up the best drinks...my favorites, Apple Martinis and Bloody Marys!!! Mmmm Delicious!And if you're eating food today...Veggies don't leave before sinking your teeth into some hot Cheese bread. Carnivores grab a cut up NY steak or prime rib!!! You won't regret it!