WEDNESDAY, July 8th, 2009 

Big Dean’s "Muscle-In"
1615 Ocean Front Walk
Santa Monica, CA 90401
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Every summer for the past 3 years, the World Dive Bar Tour has kicked off the season at the best beach bar in the county, "Big Dean’s ‘Muscle-In,’" a dive’s dive that perfectly blends easy-going, surfer sensibility with dilapidated decor.  Rather than closing at sunset like most bars on the strand, Big Dean’s owner T.J. graciously keeps the doors open extra late JUST FOR US (that includes the kitchen, Travis), and Mary Francis keeps the beer flowing like wine long into the evening.  If you stay long enough, she might even school you in the art of vanishing beer. Invite your friends and co-workers. This is one for the calendar. Let’s show Big Dean’s our appreciation and make this the best dive stop of the year!

Built over 80 years ago, Big Dean’s has changed hands and changed names a number of times, but it has never lost its appeal as the quintessential beach bar.  Icy cold American macro-brews are available on tap, served in a variety of different sized plastic cups.  Wine is available upon request and will more than likely come from a cardboard box rather than the rusty spigot protruding from a wooden cupboard labeled "M-rlct."  Like an ancient Roman city, Big Dean’s has simply built on top of its previous occupants.  Their refrigerator is literally a converted ice box, the bathrooms former broom closets that may or may not be ADA compliant.

Don’t fret at Big Dean’s location. There is plenty of free parking in the structure at 2nd & Colorado. There are also free street spots if you’re lucky enough to find one. Last year, some people parked at the beach lot right next to the bar, but it technically closes at sunset. So do so at your own risk.

As usual, the casual debauchery starts around 9PM an gets really interesting by 10:00. Come for one drink, or stay for one too many. Bring anyone and everyone, and join us for a great time in the middle of the week. If you arrive early or late, look for the people having a damn good time (it’ll be us), or start having a damn good time on your own (we’ll find you).

Carpe Drink’em,

Alex, Damien, & Travis, WDBT Co-Czars