EL||D Abroad...

Some news and notes from the road...

Hey Guys!

We've been having a crazy trip. Bouncing back and forth between Ireland and England. I've attached a photo that I took from some video on stage at the O2 Arena in London wearing my El D shirt. Also, I included a photo standing on the stage once it was full of people (20,000). Thought these may make for an interesting blog post. On our last day in London I will get some photos wearing it with Big Ben in the background or something.

I've been missing all of you guys, and look forward to coming home. I'll be back Monday the 2nd, but am flying into LAX and staying in LA for a while to have some meetings. I'll definitely be in to say hi to everyone the next night. Oh, the shirt was a huge hit. People have been commenting on it (including the Killers drummer Ronnie, who totally wants one).

Talk to you soon!

Welcome back, Josh!!

Notes from the Draft

For this installment we have a hearty brew perfect for the coming chill of winter: Ommegang Abbey Ale. This bold draft is the flagship of Ommegang Brewery, whom says this of their Belgian Ale:

Meditate on this dark ruby elixir. Breathe in its deep emanations of fruit and spice. Is that clove you smell? Licorice? Fig? Sip serenely as revelations of honey, toffee, chocolate and dark dried fruit delight your senses. Can a beer be holy? you wonder, and Where can I get a grail on-line?

Ommegang, our first brew, was inspired by the centuries-old brewing practices of the Belgian Trappist monks. This burgundian brew gives off a variety of aromas, including plum and cinnamon, and packs in flavors such as caramel, toffee, and licorice. At 8.5% abv, it is known to cause spontaneous meditation.

But, these words are worthless when compared to the palettes of our thirsty patrons... so, let's take it to the pro's! We did a taste test at the bar:

"Ripe Banana in the nose" -John

"I Agree, ripe banana... and... coffee and red apple in the body" -Megan

"Baaannnaaaannnaaa.... I got a little, um, dark meat, yeah like minerals" -Dirty Diana

"I don't know... It's kinda yeasty - Yeah, really yeasty. AND, cherry undertones..." -Juli

last but not least... Josh claims, "That's an interesting beer." Well, there you have it. Now, you be the judge. Give Ommegang Abbey a try and be sure to tell us what you think.

Otis says...

So, El Dorado is open to the public - What better time to begin a story about my experiences in this place, right? I am one of few whom witnessed the long transformation of this dive bar. My experiences on this old wall began when the owner's of George's Night Cap (the true origin of that bar top) lobbed me up here. I endured several decades as watchman of all things 1030 Broadway...

But things changed - when new owners wanted an asian themed bar (the Hong Kong Niteclub), a giant taxidermy albino buffalo became aesthetically unappealing. They removed me from my post and tossed me in the back of the bar with the rest of the junk. For 30 years, I waited in the dark for another 'change.'

Then, it happened... Last February, the Stanton brothers, and their partners, set me free! When they finally sealed ownership, they sought a shift in identity for the bar. Now, I'm Back!!! And the place is lookin' pretty good! They remodeled most of the interior... The flooring shines with gold fleck, and their jukebox sits conveniently under my nose... now, I get a chance to greet all those who add a quarter to the juke, while continuing my duties as faithful watchman. Things are good! But let's not forget the past...

These Stanton kids are young and excited to be here - you can tell their passion the second you meet em... There's no doubt they love this place, but will they be loved back? I've seen several come and go. The view from this wall can provide a cruel sight. But these guys seem different then what I'm used to seeing around here. Only time will tell if their vision becomes gold.

From time time, I'll keep y'all posted on what I see, so we can share their story. It can get pretty lonely up here, though... so come visit me, bring friends, or leave comments about my stories.

hope to see you soon, and welcome to El Dorado

 - Otis

El Dorado Opens Monday, November 24th!

The owners and staff at El Dorado Cocktail Lounge are extremely excited to open the doors for the San Diego community on Monday, November 24, 2008 at 5:00pm.  Since February 2nd of this year, this has been a work in progress.  During that time we transformed a formerly run-down, dilapidated bar into a lounge that is comfortable and attractive, yet still maintains the character and history of a bar that has existed since the 1940's.  The theme is classic Dive-Lounge with influences from our upbringing in the Pacific Northwest, and the rugged frontier of the American gold rush.  As our namesake, the fabled city of gold is our overarching metaphor... We have traveled long and hard to realize El Dorado's existence.  We have spent 5 years trying to get a bar off the ground. We are extremely honored to present the final product, and share our experiences with you.  We hope you enjoy El Dorado Cocktail Lounge, and we eagerly await your arrival!

...Welcome to El Dorado

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If you have a story related to our business (and questions, comments, or concerns) feel free to share. Contact us at your leisure:

contact@eldoradobar.com -- ph. 619.237.0550 -- fx. 619.237.0559