An almost century-old silhouette stands unassuming on Windward Avenue—but inside, you’re stepping into a living time machine. Opened in 1915 by Italian immigrant Cesar Menotti as Menotti’s Buffet, this venue covertly transformed into a bustling speakeasy during Prohibition, smuggling in rum and whiskey via tunnels linked to the pier. That legacy of intrigue is still alive today, with the upstairs Townhouse bar offering craft cocktails in an atmosphere that honors its clandestine roots, while the basement Del Monte Speakeasy thumps nightly with live music and shadowy charm. It’s less a destination and more a whisper of history rewritten for modern revelers.
Key Highlights
Walking into Townhouse feels like entering a well-pressed velvet jacket—full of texture, warmth, and old-world character. The upstairs bar keeps things atmospheric but approachable, with cozy booths and a polished cocktail menu built around Whiskey Sours, Old Fashioneds, and classics reimagined.
Below the trapdoor lies the Del Monte Speakeasy, a gleaming relic brought fully back to life. A staircase replaces the pulley system of old, but the vibe is the same: subterranean escape, live music, and lingering echoes of whispered conversations.
Every drink here tastes of intention. The bar lovingly revives “golden age” bartending—mixology as ritual. On Tuesdays, Whiskey Lovers Night brings passionate aficionados together. On weekends, DJs and burlesque blend with richer notes of history in the room.
Atmosphere & Décor
Wood-paneled interiors and aged tile—especially the still-visible Menotti’s Buffet mosaic at the entry—anchor the place in its provenance. Upstairs, amber lighting and vintage booths cradle whisper-soft conversations. Downstairs, the lighting dims more, and wooden floors hum with energy, live sound, and a grainy, underground sensibility.
At every moment you feel transported: the flicker of an era with just enough polish to feel lively and present. It’s never sterile, always authentic—a salty, storied embrace.
Other Considerations
What’s the vibe like? Expect a crowd of locals mixed with weekend-night regulars. Upstairs delivers mellow sophistication; downstairs turns up the energy with performances, DJs, and an immersive presence.
How’s the pricing? Drinks hover around mid-tier LA pricing—cocktails land between $10–12, with happy hour specials each evening. It’s not bargain-basement, but every sip carries craftsmanship and history, making it feel worth it.
Is it hard to get in? Some nights get crowded and may feature a modest cover. Weekdays tend to be easier, while weekend lines stretch longer. Planning ahead helps.
Parking & location? Situated in Venice’s walkable strip, metered parking is available; lucky spots open up after early evening. Public transit or rideshare also work fine.
For whom is this perfect? Anyone who appreciates world-class cocktails served in a space rich with narrative—historians at heart, cocktail lovers, live-music fans, and curious wanderers alike.
Townhouse Bar and Speakeasy
📍 52 Windward Ave, Venice, CA 90291
