Location
Townhouse is located at 52 Windward Avenue Venice, CA
Nights Open
5PM – 2AM M-F, 12PM-2AM Sa & Su
Menotti’s Buffet, located on the South side of the street at 52 Windward Avenue, opened to rave reviews in 1915 and the name is still visible on the original tile floor at the front of the bar today. During the Prohibition era of the 1920’s, when liquor was banned, there was an illegal speakeasy hidden in the basement. Murals adorning the basement walls of the Townhouse were originally painted sometime in 1915 and depicted landscape scenes of early Southern California, including some romanticized canal views in Venice. Also in 1915, the Venice Grand Prix was held on St. Patrick’s Day as 75,000 spectators watched the 300-mile automobile race as Barney Oldfield, driving a Maxwell, won in 4 ½ hours with an average speed of 65 MPH.
Sometime in the 1950’s the old bar’s name was changed to Grady’s Town House. On May 2nd, 1972, Ronald and Annie Bennett purchased the bar from the old owner, Gus Hinkleman, with the name now shortened to the Townhouse. Both Frank and Annie had been a mainstay in Venice until November 1990, when Annie passed away and left Ronald, known as Frank to most family and friends, at the helm until his passing in September 2003.
The Townhouse legacy continues today and is home to one of the oldest continuous running bars on the west coast. It has been a family tradition for over 30 years and is now operated by the Ryans.
- Townhouse is the oldest bar in Venice and one of the oldest bars in the Los Angeles area.
- Townhouse is also called the Del Monte and used to be a speakeasy bar and still has a speakeasy ambience
- Townhouse is known for their world-class cocktails
- Get there before 10pm to avoid big lines
General Information
Where is Townhouse located?
Townhouse is located in the heart of Venice, at 52 WINDWARD AVE
How much is cover charge at Townhouse?
Occasional Cover Charge of $5
How long will I have to wait at Townhouse?
Expect to wait anywhere from 10-20 min if you arrive after 10PM
When is Townhouse open?
Everyday, Monday-Sunday
What are the best nights to go to Townhouse?
Early in the week to sample some whiskey, especially Tuesdays for the special whiskey flights, any time an act of interest is performing downstairs, or Fridays and Saturdays for a mostly younger, energetic crowd that shows up for the DJs.Everday’s great. Friday and Saturday are their top nights. Saturday Sunday for day drinking.
What is the dress code at Townhouse?
Casual to bohemian chic: cargo pants, graphic t-shirts, button-downs, hoodies, beanies, sneakers, fitted jeans, dresses, flats, heels.
How much do drinks cost at Townhouse?
Beer $5–$7, wine $8+, cocktails $10–$12, mixed drinks $8+.
What kind of music do they play at Townhouse?
Live music from rock – EDM depending on the night.
Where can I find a list of upcoming events / DJs at Townhouse?
You can download the Discotech app to see upcoming events, and book tables for Townhouse.