The Must Headed to 4th and Spring
Ed Fuentes
The owners of The Must posted this notice on the door of their former 5th street space on July 3, hours after they were unexpectedly put out of business.
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — Co-owner Rachel Thomas hinted two weeks ago that The Must Wine Bar was close to securing a return to the Historic Core.
That was made official today. Thomas emails that the bar just signed a lease for 410 S. Spring, a space in the Old Bank District's Hellman Building. It should take eight to ten months for buildout and permitting, meaning that the bar will be open by summer 2011.
The Must was unexpectedly displaced from its previous home one block away on the night of July 3rd. That removal remains one of the hottest topics of conversation in the Historic Core one and a half months later.
The 410 S. Spring space is adjacent to the El Dorado Lofts, where a restaurant and bars are planned. It is currently occupied by Ball-Nogues Studio, who have a month-to-month lease.
Sara Jones on August 20, 2010, at 12:43PM – #1
This is great news to hear. Good luck and I can't wait for opening day!
Downtownie on August 20, 2010, at 12:44PM – #2
I will DEF be a regular patron again once they reopen! I'm so excited!
Ken Hall on August 20, 2010, at 01:09PM – #3
Great news!!!!!!!!!!
Guest on August 20, 2010, at 01:10PM – #4
Great, we can all look forward to another ten billion comments about why this is the most important news in DTLA. Please inundate us with follow-up stories charting every single moment leading up to the re-opening. Maybe something on the human interest tip, like following Rachel while she chooses paint colors at Home Depot, or what she eats for lunch every day. I'm on the edge of my seat.
Nancy Richardson (@nanorich) on August 20, 2010, at 01:20PM – #5
Reminds me of people who get all huffy when a story which isn't about his issues get all the attention....
such as those who whined when people wanted to talk about the mysterious disappearance of Gov. Mark Sanford when everyone else ignored such vital issues as campaign finance reform....and net neutrality.
This story is huge because it has drama, injustice, and one heck of a fabulous villain.....and how much can one talk about dog poop and bums in parks built for yuppies, anyway.
Guest on August 20, 2010, at 01:37PM – #6
Nancy, stop feeding the Julie -- I mean the troll.
Congrats, ladies, on signing the new location. I've been wondering when something would lease on that corner. Perfect spot if you ask me. Looking forward to being there on day one.
Nancy Richardson (@nanorich) on August 20, 2010, at 01:59PM – #7
oops..my bad. Never mind.
derblut on August 20, 2010, at 02:18PM – #8
Is Ball-Nogues leaving or being forced out? I think this should be clarified. On a related note, I think we are getting bar saturated? Bar 107, this one, the one going into the basement in the El Dorado, whatever's going into the corner of the Rowan building?, the Crocker club, the down and out, the falls... and this is JUST the Spring street area. This doesn't include the Edison, villains tavern, all the 213 bar etc. I'm really amazed that we can support so many places to drink and not an ounce of retail.
Jeff Alu on August 20, 2010, at 02:45PM – #9
So glad to hear this, just sorry we have to wait so long. :) Congrats though!
Eric Richardson (@blogdowntown) on August 20, 2010, at 03:04PM – #10
derblut: Ball Nogues had a month-to-month lease, which you take assuming that you're not there for the long term.
Bolt Barbers on August 20, 2010, at 03:18PM – #11
"Must Won't Bust" They meant what they said and they said what they meant...those mustofus women are faithful 100%!
Guest on August 20, 2010, at 03:43PM – #12
Any word on whats going in at the Rowan?? Is it another "wine bar"?
Dixon on August 20, 2010, at 04:38PM – #13
"This story is huge because it has drama, injustice, and one heck of a fabulous villain....."
True, Nancy, but don't forget the compelling story of Chef David McGrath's ambitious step forward. From grinding out discount surf-and-turf specials at the racetrack casino, he's now poaching eggs and mixing applesauce in pancake batter. What an exciting career move!
Guest on August 20, 2010, at 05:04PM – #14
Must Won't Bust is lame and makes me cringe. I suggest...Lust for Must
Nancy Richardson (@nanorich) on August 20, 2010, at 05:10PM – #15
Far Angle,
I have to admit I was intrigued with "gourmet meals" being wheeled to your blackjack table, even though that just sounds like a way to really slow the play and dirty the cards, but what do I know...
if the Stray Cat had a casino in the back, I would be tempted...but not all that tempted...I must say.
David's adventures as the unpopular president of his homeowner's association reminds me, that Julie has at last found her soulmate.
It would make a good movie, ala The Grifters.
Guest on August 20, 2010, at 05:35PM – #16
I heard that a retail wine shop, not bar, is going into the Rowan. PLus another art gallery is moving to downtown LA, the corner of 4th and Spring, and opening in October.
Ted Severe on August 20, 2010, at 06:18PM – #17
I kind of agree with #4. It's a little tired now.
Don Garza on August 21, 2010, at 02:00AM – #18
I am a a lot perturbed , I was gonna say a little, but a lot perturbed that everyone is excited that this is going to take until the Summer next year to get MUST open! It strikes me as odd and I don't need the patronization about how it has to go through permitting this and permitting that and inspection this and inspection that! It should be a quick streamlined process to get these places up and running that put money into the general fund that pays these city employees that are the building inspectors and code inspectors and fire marshals , etc ,permitting inspectors and tax collectors and city clerks , shall I go on and on!
What a shame that these folks are fighting to keep their jobs by wanting the city to raise taxes , yet they make it hard to get businesses open quickly that will bring in revenue!
Enough said Open the MUST by the end of the year or the beginning of next or even next week! Just kidding about next week , just get these people back in business quickly..
Robert on August 21, 2010, at 10:15AM – #19
Guest #16. I understand it is going to be a retail wine location with a wine bar/wine tastings area. It is a huge space.
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 10:36AM – #20
Anyone ever hire a contractor? In my experience they always blame the city for their slow speed and for prioritizing someone else's project and for their incompetent employees. With a little digging you find that most of the blame is on the contractor.
LA does need to speed things up, but before jumping to conclusions about inspections and approvals we should ask how long it realistically takes to build up a restaurant from scratch.
Jamie DeFrisco on August 21, 2010, at 10:55AM – #21
Glad to hear they have found a place. Hopefully all goes well with getting the proper permits and opening.
The Must was here previously, so regardless of the other bars in the area it still has a place.
Agreed that hopefully the studio isn't being kicked out. However if they are on month to month then they should be prepared for the proper notice. I'm sure the OBD will give them a proper notice.
Don Garza on August 21, 2010, at 12:31PM – #22
I agree with one thing.. LA Needs to speed things up and if it does fall on the contractor then put the blame where it resides.... but we are just starting to see the City beginning to focus on small business as priority..
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 12:36PM – #23
Don: I think you will see The Must move rapidly through the permit process at the City of Los Angeles level. The State of California has a different permit process.
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 12:47PM – #24
I never went to the Must although it was less than 100 feet from my front door. I will definitely go when it relocates because there is less loitering riff-raff going that direction on Spring. As a single woman, the proximity factor of a drinking establishment to my home is both a blessing and a curse.
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 02:34PM – #25
What does do state agencies have to do with opening a restaurant in Downtown LA?
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 02:50PM – #26
@Guest 25: I think since it's a wine bar, the state Alcoholic Beverage Control department has to approve the license.
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 03:18PM – #27
From what I know about the California Dept of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), they will approve alcoholic beverage sales for on-site consumption for a new location (not a transfer from a previous license holder to the new applicant) if the city gives the blessing.
So in the end it's the city that slows things down in scheduling hearings and notifying the neighbors. Smaller cities can schedule quickly (usually to the next Planning Commission meeting), while LA is much more complex and bogged down. But restaurant owners are willing (not happy) to wait it out in Los Angeles because, you know, it's Los Angeles.
Guest on August 21, 2010, at 05:46PM – #28
This new location doesn't guarantee a bed of roses for the Must owners. Don't forget that James's Warung restaurant (now Urban Noodle) became Gilmore's Warung. The oven that baked Quizno's bread now bakes Gilmore's Rocket pizzas. Even the owner of Banquette will tell you that her relationship with Gilmore enterprises has not always been ideal.
Hopefully this story will have a happy ending, but history indicates the road ahead may be rough for the Must.
Alex Brideau III on August 22, 2010, at 12:53AM – #29
Good to hear they've found a place. I must admit, though, I would have loved to see The Must relocate to Broadway so as to begin spreading some of the energy from Spring St westward. Why should on street have all the fun? :-)
Guest on August 22, 2010, at 02:34AM – #30
Maybe if the residents in the City of L.A. (most of them not born and raised in L.A.) did not whine, cry and protest so much, small businesses like restaurants and bars COULD get approved faster...stop blaming local government and STOP whining and crying over every little thing...YOU ARE THE ONES TO BLAME!!!
Reuben Steinberg on August 22, 2010, at 09:06AM – #31
the Must is more than just a bar, its a great place to have a meal and a glass of wine. the true spirit of a bistro. i would say they have already separated themselves from all the regular Bars and clubs around here.
Russell Brown on August 22, 2010, at 03:47PM – #32
From #30:
Maybe if the residents in the City of L.A. (most of them not born and raised in L.A.) did not whine, cry and protest so much, small businesses like restaurants and bars COULD get approved faster...stop blaming local government and STOP whining and crying over every little thing...YOU ARE THE ONES TO BLAME!!!
This is very inaccurate, at least downtown. In reality, the neighborhood does support local businesses and is very loyal when a good product and owners (who partner with the neighborhood) are involved.
It has been very well documented of the 12-18 month delays in getting all the permits, inspections and signoffs completed. There are different 12 department involved which should be enough of a nightmare.
Now add in that inspectors from the SAME department contradict each other. So a notice for changes is given and the next inspector contradicts the first. The 12 to 2 program (which has not been implemented) MAY eventually solve this issue by consolidating the pathways.
Add in County of LA officials (separate from the City) for food service issues and it really becomes interesting. Most buildings in Historic Downtown also must comply with often contradictory historic preservation standards and modern business/ fire safety and ADA compliance requirements.
The Restaurant and Hospitality Express program for food service and drink venues should help streamline the process significantly. Here is some background info.
http://blogdowntown.com/2010/06/5395-city-and-county-launch-program-to-cut-restaurant
http://www.ladowntownnews.com/articles/2010/06/03/news/doc4c08079bb2ef6679781412.txt
The only locals that oppose good projects is UCEPP (United Coalition East Prevention Program) which has testified at almost every bar and restaurant hearing. This has added many months and tens of thousands of dollars of delays in appealing CUP/s all the way through local and state appeals. Pete's Cafe, The Association, most of 6th & Main, Hotel Cecil, LA Live, Broadway theatres, Nickel Dinner were delayed for over a year from opening. This chilling effect also scares away most business owners from tackling future projects.
UCEPP has an absolute right to protect skid row from offsite sales of liquor and protect the "recovery community". However, they have made it their mission that an abstinence philosophy for every single new venue should be imposed. That is the only community that has fought against good businesses opening.
No one can easily afford paying your apartment rent or mortgage and staff for over year and never being able to move in. That is what UCEPP has imposed.
Russell Brown on August 22, 2010, at 04:45PM – #33
Correction, the delay for the Nickel Dinner is for their beer and wine license not for food service.
The Nickel Diner could not be more accepting of the environment they are in. This was still not enough of an accommodation for some who demand total abstinence. Testimony was that more homeless would spin out of control with temptation and families would shun an adult restaurant that was only emphasizing liquor sales.
Not sure how on site only beer and wine with dedicated food service creates a relapse issue but that was the testimony.
Guest on August 22, 2010, at 05:44PM – #34
Russell...and whoever else reads this...so a restaurant applying for on-site beer/wine or full-blown liquor at this point should expect UCEPP to appeal any approval. Fine.
But the City needs to schedule the appeal hearing for the NEXT hearing date (while complying with public noticing requirements)...not delay for months on end.
And future restaurant owners...be savvy when you prepare a lease contract with a potential landlord. Plug in some language like "pending City and other agency approval", and work it out beforehand so you get some of the rent waived in the months before you actually open for business.
And check your architect's and contractor's references! Make sure it's a licensed contractor...check the CSLB...
https://www2.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx
Dixon on August 22, 2010, at 06:25PM – #35
Russell is mistaken about Pete's. It served alcohol on the first day of its opening (not a year later), and the only delay in opening was construction related.
Thank god for the efforts of UCEPP (United Coalition East Prevention Program). The Historic Core is already alcohol soaked. Can you imagine what it would be like if it were any easier to open a bar here? Has anyone counted just how many places serve alcohol in the Historic Core? The saturation point has already been reached.
Is Russell so passionate about this issue because of his desire for an alcohol license at his venue The Exchange? As a matter of fact, alcohol is already being served there without a permit. Just check out comedy night or Patti B's cabaret nights. Talk about a conflict of interest!
Guest on August 22, 2010, at 10:35PM – #36
Can you imagine what it would be like if it were any easier to open a bar here?
Yea, it would be almost as bad as an atmosphere fostered by organizations like the ACLU, in which every and any drug- and alcohol-dependent person, no matter how deranged or incapacitated he or she may be, is seen as deserving full, free, unfettered access to public thoroughfares---sidewalks and otherwise. Because to allow any less will be cruel to that person's civil rights! To his humanity! To his happiness! To his self-esteem! Oh, heck, to his urination and defecation habits too!!
Don Garza on August 23, 2010, at 02:50AM – #37
If you talk to any addict they will tell you if they want to drink or get their drug they will get their drug of choice somehow.. many have spoken to me and told me this.
The arguments from ucepp are without merit since anyone residing in skid row can walk down to Rite-aid and purchase a pint of hennesy, you heard me Hennesy.. when I lived in skid row , the so called poor bought expensive boos and drank it at home ; Jack Daniels , Hennesy , schnopps, etc etc. They stocked up every first of the month with BEER and BOOS and the law is , if you have a lease , it is against the law to not allow the fair enjoyment of one's own SRO Apartment.
The argument should be that we should allow these cups because it is controlled. It does not walk off site. Sit down restaurants and diners and any eateries such as even the Must, even though it was considered a wine bar , the use of the alcohol is controlled until a certain hour.. they were selling more liquor out of the backs of automobiles in skid row when the options were few in downtown on the periphery of skid row.
I am going to be brutally honest, I believe that a very small percentage , two or three people , of those who are from the skid row community, leading the charge for a recovery zone to keep out liquor stores etc are really fronting for those who sell these substances on the streets and in the sro hotels. They wish to keep out the competition. Lets be real folks... These folks use well intentioned folks to push their agenda which is to keep out the competition and they join and lead the well intentioned groups. When the section of 6th street between main and los angeles came alive again with the reopening of coles, you saw proliferation of boos being sold from automobiles in skid row decline...
Folks ... BUsiness is business , regardless if they are using a DBA or if they are not... "business" entities will use whatever tactics to keep out the competition even in the guise of helping a "recovery community".
I am all for keeping out liquor stores for off site use out of the heart of skid row . But I do not have a problem with businesses outside of that community from selling their liquor on site.
The contradiction was amazing. SRO Housing Corporation Hotels are what we would call under the component of Social Model Recovery with a few exceptions that use the Harm reduction Model, there was more drug use , drug selling and dealing in their hotels than the HARM Reduction Skid Row Housing Trust Hotels.
I think it is wrong for an entity that is just a front for SRO Housing Corporation , which SRO Housing corporation has so much drinking and drugging in it's hotels , to impose it's idea of of social model recovery on all of downtown , since it doesn't seem to be working , nor was it working the 20 years they were in existence , becasue it took the DCBID to get involved in 2000 to exact it's question of why the problems in skid row had not been solved.
What is the solution.... the solution is to help those that want help and allow the choice , if the drug of choice is legal , for those who are imbibing those things which are legal.
My question is why are there those who wish to impose their will on businesses that contribute to the General Fund of municipalities and contribute to entities such as UCCEPP which is non-profit... maybe what should be done is look to see what groups or entities are making contributions to the group called UCEPP and if tax payer money is being sent .. I am assuming there is plenty of that money being sent to that group..
Guest on August 23, 2010, at 10:45PM – #38
I am a recovering sex addict. These bars and the cuties and hotties are horrible for my recovery. Oh my god, somebody start an organization for me, please. I protest them all. Oh my god.
Downtownster on August 24, 2010, at 12:36AM – #39
Since some folks are so concerned about the temptation of liquor, where is there concern over crack, prescription drugs and heroin on the streets?
Since all should not have access to a beer or a drink because a few can not handle the temptation, let's also shut down all the food establishments.
Restaurants, grocery stores, fast food outlets. Many folks are too fat so shouldn't everyone not have food available so they will not be tempted?
Bolt Barbers on August 25, 2010, at 08:55PM – #40
We wanted to be the 40th comment so we posted here. Not much to say really -Miss Philippines has already articulated most of our sentiments at Mondays Miss Universe Pageant.
Guest on September 02, 2010, at 12:19PM – #41
Cant wait to meet up with Don Garza and Russell Brown and Nancy Richardson at the Must Wine Bar. See you'll there. Cant wait.
Guest on September 22, 2010, at 11:45AM – #42
Rite-Aid on Broadway and 5th would do well if they started selling heroin at prices lower than the guys outside the door.
Do Hollywood restaurants have the same trouble getting a liquor license because Lindsay Lohan wants a spinach salad?
John on October 02, 2010, at 05:09PM – #43
If David A. McGrath ("Crook Cook" from Philadelphia who works for Taro Ito in Holywood Park Inglewood)is involvedin this mass, STAY AWAY and let other know to do the same!
Does anyone knows the Court Case# where he is named as defendant?
We wondered if this is the same person described shown here on this blog: http://ccvalliance.blogspot.com/2009/08/blog-post.html#comments