Comments (0) Best Bar You All Ruined (1940) - 2010
The Short Stop
The Short Stop has been the clubhouse for two very distinct “fraternities” — formerly some of L.A.’s toughest cops, and recently, Eastside hipster kids. Starting in 1940, this multiroom wooden structure served for years as the unofficial precinct house for LAPD officers working the adjacent neighborhoods. It was a lively, no-holds-barred, sometimes brutal off-duty party, where even uninitiated rookie cops could get the cold shoulder or worse if they walked in at the wrong time. Old gun lockers, badges on the wall and a bullet hole in the door attest to its police–hangout past. After an ownership change years ago — one owner is the Afghan Whigs’ Greg Dulli — the Stop became an interesting mix of tatted punk rockers, boys and girls attired in thrift-store chic and local cholo types from the ’hood. Night creatures from across L.A. flock to enjoy the dark, moody atmosphere in its DJ’d dance space; homey back room with pool table, pinball and photo booth; main bar with strong drinks; and late-night visits from the Tamale Man. 1455 W. Sunset Blvd., Echo Park. (213) 482-4942. —Adam Gropman
