(Drank 07/27/26 MO @ 4:00pm and many times before): The bar's former literal address was 4100…read moreSunset Blvd., so why use a different physical address now?
Since I moved into the Silver Lake hipsterhood over 15 years ago, the 4100 Bar quickly became my local watering hole of a quasi dive bar. As I liked to say, "I rolled myself down the hill and later climbed my way back up" after a trip to this establishment. Formerly a distinguished dive bar called The Detour (which I also went to back in the day), it was overhauled and reopened under new ownership in 2001. Since then, it has become a staple in the community and celebrated its 25th anniversary as of this review. Although it's felt like I've been here 4100 times, would I continue to visit this corner neighborhood bar!?
PURCHASE(S)
Arts District Brewing 4100 Blonde Golden Ale Beer 5.00% ABV 16floz Draft ($5.00 HH): Rich amber color, light malty aroma, light body, light grainy malty sweet flavor, smooth finish, and light malty sweet aftertaste.
West Coast Negroni ($10.00 HH): An interesting "beertail" that seemingly worked with its relaxing smooth taste; but honestly, I preferred the two separate to fully enjoy both.
Arts District Brewing Traction IPA Beer 7.50% ABV 16floz Draft ($9.00): Bright amber color, light hoppy aroma, light body, light hoppy piney flavor, crisp smooth finish, and light hoppy aftertaste.
Boilermaker (4100 Blonde) with Vodka Shot ($10.00 HH): I never understood the thought behind a liquor shot served with a beer whether it was done as a shot before or after the beer or dropped in such as the more famous Irish Car Bomb. From a marketing and sales perspective at a bar, it made sense, and maybe it got patrons drunk faster. However, from a taste perspective, it really was a waste of time and neither one or the other offered much as a pair.
Boilermaker (4100 Blonde) with Whiskey Shot ($10.00 HH x3): See above.
SERVICE
Initially met by the front door security who checked IDs, I casually approached the bar and was greeted by a young man who easily and quickly took my orders throughout the time I was there. There wasn't any table service, so please bring your empties back to the bar and order another. Once it was time to close out, it was easy-peasy - cheers!
PARKING
(Varied: FREE this instance): I simply walked the five minutes from my place. Otherwise, there appeared to be some spots along the main drags of Sunset Blvd., Manzanita St., and all surrounding roads (please read all posted street signs) - 'nuff said.
ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE
A divey ramshackled-like building with a central four-sided bar, booths along all of the walls, two well-known photobooths (b/w 4pc strip $7.00), a pool table, and simply just randomness of decorations inside. Outside, there were several pool tables, a ton of communal wooden benches, and colorful tarps that shielded you from the rain and sun. Inside, minimal natural lighting entered through the windows and doors while a random assortment of electric ceiling and hung lights filled the rest. Out on the patio, there was plenty of natural lighting while a similar electric lights situation was present and the many street lights. I didn't recall seeing any TVs while music from a jukebox played in the background.
ATTIRE
Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops.
OVERALL
Why it took me so long to post a review for the 4100 Bar I had no idea, but I'm glad I finally did. They had a decent selection of beers on tap and liquor for cocktails or shots, no served food so bring your own (they also had catering and food trucks at times), the prices were comparable, the vibe was very kick-back, and the service was straightforward. They generally checked all of the boxes I hoped to find in a dive bar. Furry family members were allowed on the outdoor patio (water bowls available), there were Happy Hour specials (Daily until 8pm and MO-TU 10pm-12am), and almost certain nightly entertainment such as trivia, music, and more were available. I found very complete value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $70.00 BEFORE any discounts, points usage, and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 5.0 STARS