Historic Venice Beach Watering Hole
Townhouse Bar and Speakeasy: A Century of Underground Spirits
Los Angeles, California, United States
By the Wicked Cool Places editors · Published
Why it’s cool
This Venice legend has served drinks continuously since 1915, surviving Prohibition through a network of secret tunnels that funneled illegal rum and whiskey directly from the pier into its basement.
Venice Beach is known for its boardwalk and street performers, but beneath the surface lies a history of defiance. Established in 1915, the Townhouse stands as one of the oldest drinking establishments in Los Angeles.
It claims a rare distinction. The venue never stopped serving alcohol, even when the law demanded it.
Through war and temperance movements, the taps remained open for those who knew where to look.
Why It Stands Out
During the years of Prohibition, the owners maintained a hidden world beneath their grocery store. This basement lounge, known as the Del Monte, became a hub for clandestine activity.
The logistics were impressive. Small vessels would arrive from Canada carrying illegal shipments of whiskey and rum.
These ships docked under the Abbot Kinney pier. From there, the contraband moved through a series of underground tunnels and catacombs to reach the thirsty patrons waiting in the cellar.
Another subterranean site with a rebellious history in the city is The Masque. This was the first stop for spirits entering the city from the water.
Secret passages like these are also found in other urban parks, such as The Ramble Cave. Today, the venue maintains that vintage atmosphere.
The upstairs bar operates with regular hours, while the basement speakeasy has been restored to its former glory. The drink menu focuses on the early twentieth century.
Bartenders prepare classic cocktails like Whiskey Sours and Old Fashioneds with a level of craft that honors the era when a night out was a risky endeavor. The wood-paneled walls and dim lighting preserve a sense of the past that feels authentic rather than manufactured.
Before You Go
The main floor of the Townhouse is open every day, but the Del Monte speakeasy operates on a more limited schedule. It opens only on specific nights of the week, mirroring the secretive nature of its origins.
Parking in Venice can be difficult. Look for metered spots on Windward Avenue or the nearby streets.
These meters usually stop charging after 6 p.m. which makes evening visits more convenient.
Questions worth answering
How did they keep the booze flowing during Prohibition?
The owners used tunnels connected to the Abbot Kinney pier. Boats from Canada dropped off illegal rum and whiskey that moved through these catacombs directly into the cellar.
What is the best way to handle parking in Venice?
Windward Avenue has meters that you should check first. These spots do not cost anything once it is past 6 p.m.
Is the basement lounge always available for a drink?
The Del Monte speakeasy keeps a tighter schedule than the main floor. It only opens on certain nights to maintain its quiet reputation.
What kind of drinks should we expect at the bar?
The menu sticks to the early 1900s. You will find classic options like an Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour made with traditional methods.
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