Holiday Bar

Upbeat Neighborhood Bar Open in East LA | Eater LA

"Opened in mid-May, this neighborhood drinking spot on Whittier Boulevard — slightly east of the 5 Freeway near Soto Street — was spearheaded by former Verdugo Bar veteran David Kiralla, who named it Holiday Bar to honor his grandfather. Kiralla gutted the former La Cita space and refashioned the U-shaped, 2,300-square-foot bar to feel slightly old-school but still modern; it fits roughly 80 people and includes a patio. With backing from The Surly Goat and Verdugo Bar’s Goat Group, the bar offers eight rotating brews on tap (which could include a cider, pilsner, hefeweizen, a Lagunitas pale ale, an IPA and Negro Modelo); cans of Tecate run $4 and Modelo $5. Kiralla also put two cocktails on draft — a Moscow Mule and an Old Fashioned — and bartenders make a vodka-based slushy called the Big Stick. Snacks include Hot Cheetos at the bar, and a taco vendor often serves just outside. The vibe centers on watching Dodgers games while listening to oldies, funk, soul, R&B or Spanish-language music, and Kiralla emphasizes building ownership for longevity and a personal presence. Hours are Monday–Saturday 5 p.m.–2 a.m. and Sunday 1 p.m.–2 a.m." - Mona Holmes