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As one of Montrose’s oldest bars, Avignone’s is the stuff of legends. Since closing last year, the new owners took care to preserve it’s iconic status with some new touches to the 47-year-old space, and are ready for business starting Saturday.
The building took on many forms before the original Avignone’s opened in 1971. The 90-year-old building has housed countless bars, restaurants, a disco, and locations for well-known movies. Some might recognize Avignone’s in scenes from Will Ferrell’s “Old School” or Adam Sandler’s “The Wedding Singer.” Years ago, an underage Karen Carpenter (of the Carpenters) allegedly snuck into the bar to perform before her singing career took off. And for those that appreciate a taste of shady behavior, Avignone’s has a history of gambling and illegal activity. Behind the bar, there’s an old doorbell that alerted criminals to hide evidence anytime law enforcement entered the premises.
Flash forward to the present, and Avignone’s 2,000 square-foot-space has a new pool table, upgraded booths, a restored mid-century fireplace, and new TVs to broadcast any major sporting event. Avignone’s is not a sports bar, and while they do sometimes offer live music, most of the music comes from the carefully curated jukebox. There won’t be a specialty cocktail in sight — just a full bar and rotating beer selections on tap.
Joe Avignone opened the original Avignone’s back in 1971, and sold the space in 2017. The new partners are locals and friends, including Jordan A. Nedeff and his wife Marcy, whom formerly owned Magnolia House in Pasadena. Other owners include Michael Wright, plus brothers Jason Filardi and Peter Filardi. Avignone’s hours are 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. until 2 a.m. on weekends.
Avignone’s. 2321 Honolulu Ave, Montrose, CA
