Buzzy Echo Park Adds Dim New Cocktail Den to Far Sunset Stretch This Weekend

The neon is lit and the door is open at Bar Henry, the newest drinking option along Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park. The compact cocktail spot sits towards the southeastern end of the neighborhood, near Chinatown, and should settle in nicely as an option for that stretch of neighborhood.

Bar Henry takes over where the long-running El Chubasco left off last year. The former was a locals-only kind of dive bar that lasted for decades, whereas the low-slung newcomer offers spendy drinks, moody vibes, and a big, well-lit back bar lined with upscale whiskey, tequila, and the like. The bar officially held its first night of service yesterday evening inside the darkly-toned room, with its deep green booths, herringbone wood floor, and perfectly mismatched array of framed images along one wall. The bar itself is rather small, with room for twelve or so to drink at a clip.

It’s been a busy year for Echo Park dining overall, with the new Konbi Japanese sandwich shop just up the street already selling out of food every single day. Not much further away from there is popular mezcal stop Bar Calo, while the Lost Knight property continues its remodel into something big and new. Even the longstanding Brite Spot diner has new owners, and will look to get a refresh in the coming months.

As for Bar Henry, expect another night of “soft opening” this evening, though ownership is only promoting Saturday as the first night of service. Drinks kick off at 5 p.m. sharp.

Bar Henry. 1228 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles.