Hinano Cafe
15 Washington Blvd.
Venice, CA 90292

In lieu of Venice’s rapid gentrification, it’s nice to know that there’s still a beach bar where you can get a cheap beer, shoot some pool, and mingle with local surfer bums, hippies, and the occasional gang member. Those places are all but gone. Hinano’s is the exception. Surrounded by trendy eateries with a high douchebaggery quotient, this surfer shack extraordinaire has embraced the Venice mentality over the years and maintains that laid back style today.

Hinano is adorned out front with a string of Christmas lights year round and aglow with neon within. Don’t let the ski-capped eastern-European doorman checking IDs fool you. You won’t find any Kolatchys in this bar, but rather a fine variety of draught beer, a delicious and affordable bar menu served throughout the night (try the burgers), and free popcorn courtesy of the stand-up machine in the corner. Bring enough change for the PacMan and pool tables and enough greenbacks to quench your thirst as Hinano is cash only. And don’t bother with the Valets on Washington right in front of the bar (yes, it’s gotten that bad). Park on Pacific or one of the other side streets.

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, if the friendly regulars don’t find you first).

Carpe Drink’em,

Alex, Damien, & Travis - WDBT Co-czars

"…It’s just like, dude, you got the best barrels ever dude, its just like you pull in and you just get spit right out of’em and you just drop in just smack and..whah-pack!…and drop down..and BAHHHHHHWWW!…and after that, you just drop in, and just ride the barrel and get pitted, so pitted…like that."

- Surfer Dude

The Red Garter
2536 Lincoln Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291

One characteristic shared by nearly every dive we’ve visited is its long-standing reputation as a pillar of the community. Nothing stands the test of time and fleeting trends like a welcoming atmosphere, good people, and a good ol’ glass of whiskey that doesn’t empty the wallet — such is the case with The Red Garter in Venice, where little has changed in the over 40 years it’s been open.

That’s not to say that the bar is neglected. The proprietor’s loving hand regularly paints the front of the building, and he recently added a used "Revenge of the Sith" pinball game in place of the Pong that broke last year. Not surprisingly everyone still fights for dibs on the PacMan next to it. The Garter was once home to regular billiard tournaments, so be careful who you challenge to a game. Stick to darts if pool’s not your forté.

Despite its locale on a major westside thoroughfare, the inconspicuous exterior can elude even the sharpest eye. Look for the Siam chinese place across the street. Plenty of street parking as well as a lot in the back. Cash and credit accepted.

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