In a neighborhood like Echo Park, you can never have enough relaxed neighborhood bars. And Bar Bandini aims to be a kind of slightly more mature counterpoint to El Prado just down the road. With a slate of 8 rotating wine taps, it's also more environmentally friendly, as Bandini plans to specialize in the kind of funky natural wines that's all the rage with more conscious imbibers. The craft beers won't be neglected, with 12 taps that'll lean heavy on sours, IPAs, and saisons, the kind of lusty selection that gets the hopheads drooling. The official launch date is October 12.
Founded by Michael Lippman, Joshua Weinstein, and Jason Piggott, who bring a collective 20-plus years of restaurant experience in LA and New York City, the place is named for local writer John Fante, whose protagonist Arturo Bandini roamed Los Angeles on the fiction author's pages. Inside the space, a dark, rustic feel that's covered with Douglas fir flooring, elevated banquettes, and a sleek slate bar. Everything feels like it's been settled for years, giving Bandini a timeless feel that gives one the sense it's going to stick around for a while.
To nibble on, they'll have some small plates and wine-friendly bites inspired by the kind of fare you'll find in Rome or San Sebastian, though the menu won't be ready for the first few days or so. Hours run 5 p.m. to midnight, Monday to Thursday, until 2 a.m. on weekends, and from 2 p.m. to midnight on Sunday.
Bar Bandini
2150 Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
