charlie amter
Lists
L.A. bars with literary aspirations
Los Angeles is the last city in the world you'd expect to find books in a bar. Yet we've found several spots that proudly display hardcovers for their regulars. We suspect the tomes are more of a design scheme than anything else, but regardless, here are a few drinking holes where you can learn something while waiting for your (late) date to show.
This trendy Ventura blvd. bar and restaurant is concealed behind an ivy covered wall. Once inside, you'll never want to leave the cozy hideaway. Books on display in the library here include "Rite of Spring" (sadly not "Rites of Spring"), "The Dark Side of Camelot" and, inexplicably, "Trumped!" No paperbacks at Firefly...it's hardcover or bust at this sexy hang.
The stylized celeb haunt may be known for its A-list regulars, but the design is equally press worthy. The ground floor library, however, carries titles as vapid as its clientele (Danielle Stelle, anyone?). Let's face it: no one is here to read...especially when the eye candy is so good.
Located on the ground floor of the Library Court Lofts, the Library Bar is a haven of good beer amidst faux-literary styling. The books on display are classics from authors like Rudyard Kipling and Tennessee Williams.
My how times change. What used to be a leather bar called cuffs is now a venue hosting a law library bathed in the sparkling glow of crystal chandeliers.