NIGHTLIFE
The Must Is Back
Our popular tavern and gathering place that closed in 2010 , is back in a new downtown Los Angeles location . Soft opened since the first week of December , the former beer and wine establishment returns to the Historic Core , where it abruptly lost its lease following a two-year run . It is everything its loyal and long-waiting patrons enjoyed in the first location and more . “ People have been anticipating our comeback ,” said Coly Den Haan , sommelier and co-owner .“ Our neighborhood and our patrons have been extremely supportive .”
!
Named after the juice created by the first pressing of grapes during the winemaking process , the Must will keep wine at its core but boast an expanded bar with liquor and signature beer- and wine-themed cocktails , plus a revamped menu . It will be significantly larger , with a patio , an outdoor bar on the ground floor , and a private wine cellar tasting room in the basement ”.
!
Co-owner Rachel Thomas says that despite its expansion , the Must will retain its warm , casual ambiance . For example , guests will be able to grab a drink or bite to the sounds of deejays spinning music on various nights . Thomas describes the space as “ design-oriented and cozy ” and says its old world meets new world atmosphere will appeal to patrons whether they walk in wearing heels or flip-flops . “ The Must will be inclusive ,” said Thomas . “ We want people to feel comfortable trying new things . There ’ s no attitude . You can sit wherever you want , and you don ’ t have to order food . If you want to spend $ 6 on a glass of wine , you can . If you want to spend $ 20 on a glass of wine , you can .”
!
While the Must will bill itself as an establishment without a theme , Den Haan and Thomas have planned special events to entertain patrons throughout the week . Sunday night is game night , with Jenga , Connect Four and other favorites . Magic Mondays will feature supper and magicians . And a monthly event called Dinner in the Dark will offer diners a guided four- or five-course meal with food and wine or beer pairings to enjoy while they are blindfolded .
!
Soon after they ’ re opening with happy and dinner hours the restaurant will also offer weekday lunch and weekend brunch . The Must will bring back original restaurant favorites like the Fluffernutter ( a sandwich of grilled brioche , almond peanut butter and marshmallows with chocolate dipping sauce ), Your Mama ’ s Chicken ( pan-roasted poultry with cornmeal mush ), soy Hamburger Helper , and a create-your-own grilled-cheese sandwich .
!
The new chef , Drew Coleman , who shares the owners ’ influences of “ southern comfort ” American ”, is also bringing in new dishes including Carnitas Shepherd ’ s Pie , Hush Puppies , Biscuits with Red Eyed Gravy and a number of vegetarian and vegan options like the Beet Loaf .
!
Downtown residents and ourselves cannot wait to try the new / old dishes under the new roof . Our favorite neighborhood hangout is back with the smile of Coly and Rachel bringing us a MUST for Downtown Los Angeles .
! !
“ No matter how many places there a re d o w n t o w n , there is a void that the Must will fill
!
again .” Rachel Thomas
!
THE MUST 117 Winston Street Los Angeles , CA 90013 213 628 2000 www . themust . com