Before the Date…
The school night outing, although “dangerous”, can lead to experiencing the city in a while new light. Local joints open their doors to special events, cheaper drink prices, and, usually, local acts who welcome you into their show. When you combine the three of these into some East Side institutions, the weekday becomes your oyster.
So text your partner that you’re heading out on a weekday and prepare for some wining, dining, and front row grinding.
St0p #1: 6:30pm
TASTE
WINES FROM A LOCAL WEEKDAY TRADITION
What to Know
This local wine shop has been around since 2006, they know what’s up and love natural wines.
It used to be a VHS rental store. The current bathrooms are where the porn section used to be, a spot where the owners almost housed the more expensive “adult” wines.
Every Monday and Thursday they have a wine tasting from 5-9pm. This is where our date starts. If you can locate the amazing Doug Swim pouring tastings make sure you’re in front of him.
They serve their famous bread and butter with the wine tasting. Take advantage of this so you don’t get wasted, it’s actually delicious.
There will be 4 different tastings that night. Each of the bottles are for sale at a 10% discount to bring to your next stop which is BYOB.
St0p #2: 8pm
DINE
at an artistic BYOB hangout
What to Know
Don’t let the sign fool you Leela Thai rebranded as the Silverlake House. The yellow sign for “Leele Thai” is still out front so you know what to look for.
It’s easiest to take an uber but you can walk. It will take about 13 minutes and most of it is along the reservoir which can be very nice during the sunset 😉
This is a BYOB so bringing a bottle from Stop #1 sets you up for success.
What to order: The Golden Fish (that lemongrass sauce).
Seems that there is a secret drawing contest going on underneath the glass at each table. Mostly of the original “Leela Thai Elephant.” Ask your server for some paper and a pencil to join in.
St0p #3: after dinner
ROCK OUT
in a tiny local venue
What to Know
No need to buy tickets to this local gem of a music venue. This date takes place on Monday and Thursdays, the shows are usually below $15 and usually not sold out. Check out the band who will be playing that night so you can plan accordingly to what the vibe will be.
If you’re not into being on the dance floor you can always hang in their fishbowl bar. The live music will play on speakers in there and you can score the cool corner booth over looking the scene.
The cult theme came about because we saw the band Sumeau when we did this date. They are a wonderful live band but also a “cult” they want you to “join”. We highly suggest checking them out. A joy finding these local groups putting out killer experiences.