Zig zagging my way from the South Bay in an attempt to avoid LA gridlock, I finally arrived at Sassafras in Hollywood. Walking towards the entrance, the exterior of Sassafras seemed rather ordinary. After entering, I was “transported” to New Orleans, circa 1940 as if I was using a Star Trek transporter. After a stressful day, this delightful trip to the South was extremely welcome.
Perusing the interior, I discovered that the owners of Sassafras spared no expense in creating a Southern townhouse from the 1940’s. Period couches, sofa, artwork and antiques were prevalent. The walls and ceiling were adorned with beautiful interior brickwork. I happened to be seated near designer Daniel J. Winter. I discovered that he was behind the amazing interior brickwork and the many decorative antiques that lined the interior. To the left of the bar is an upstairs stage for live entertainment. Given the lighting and the close proximity to the bar, I’m sure that it is an excellent venue to enjoy music.
Bar Manager Jared Mort and Head Bartender Aaron Stepka created an entire menu featuring cocktails that reside in charred oak barrels. Barrel aged cocktails are a new trend for mixology that is slowly sweeping the country. Sassafras mixes their barrel aged cocktails with ultra premium spirits to create drinks that feature hints of oak, vanilla and cherry.
The drinks packed a lot of octane and since I began feeling no pain, I decided it was time to leave. I spotted a deli that was open next door. It struck me odd that they were hustling in the kitchen and no one was waiting for food. I spotted the grits dish I had next door and found out that Vine Street Deli supplied the food for Sassafras. There I met executive chef Antonio who provided me with samples of the other dishes that were about to appear next door.
The owners of Sassafras have made their location an extremely inviting place to wind down after a busy day. The beautifully decorated, Southern themed interior — combined with the barrel aged cocktails — makes for a unique experience in Los Angeles. I’d definitely like to return when a band is performing on their upstairs stage. I’m sure it is quite the experience to behold.
Sassafras Saloon
1233 N. Vine St
Hollywood CA 90038
Open daily from 6:00pm – 2:00am
Website: http://www.sassafrassaloon.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SassafrasHollywood
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SassafrasHW