NYC’s Apotheke Bar Officially Starts the Far Chinatown Party Tonight

There has been a flurry of activity at the far end of Chinatown lately, over off Spring Street along the LA River. That’s where David Chang’s Majordomo is coming in a matter of weeks, and where Highland Park Brewery is setting up shop later this year. But tonight, the moment belongs to Apotheke.

The incoming party space based out of New York City has been doing friends and family service for the past two evenings, playing to a packed house last night across the indoor-outdoor space. Eater wasn’t invited to the event, but got in anyway.

So what to expect at Apotheke? First off, the place is pushed basically up against the LA River, and almost underneath the overpass that leads into Lincoln Heights. There’s a long ramp up to the front door, and a tall, open room with a glowing bar at the far end. Small tables, couches, and a couple of booths tucked into their own nooks help to anchor the front of the otherwise open room.

From there, drinkers can swing right to head outside to the quirky patio with its own three-quarter bar. There are yet more tables and chairs pushing the action out to the edge of the patio beyond, which is lined with heaters and secreted away from the street action by tall fencing.

As for the drinks, Apotheke still maintains the classic look and almost speakeasy vibe that has been so enduringly popular in cocktail culture both in New York City and Los Angeles. The menu is described as a “prescription list,” and offers categories based on healing properties rather than alcohol selection. Last night’s friends and family menu is below.

According to sources, Apotheke officially opens to the public tonight, keeping evening hours only. Eater reached out for more information, but so far hasn’t heard back. Their local website still isn’t up and running, but those eager to keep tabs can follow along on Instagram.

Apotheke LA
1728 N. Spring St.
Los Angeles, CA

• David Chang’s New Los Angeles Restaurant Will Be Called Majordomo [ELA]