Carlito's Way: The Bar

By Hipolito Munoz, Managing Editor/Publisher

There are always moments when we all need to go to a place where everyone knows your name. A place where you have the opportunity to meet with folks that will converse with you or leave you alone instinctively, sort of like having a bar at home.
As we look for our watering hole to have a drink unanimously or with friends and want the ambiance of a simple, old school bar, Carlito’s Way, 15238 Victory Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91411 (818) 997-1241, is probably for you. When I first walked into the bar, I was there for a film shoot, the Buena Vista Social Club, “Chan Chan” came to mind.

As I sat there, I was inspired to write because I felt there was something special about the bar, then I met the owner Carlos, and I understood why the bar felt so relaxed. Carlos Castellanos bought the bar in 2007. An Eagle Rock native and himself from a Mexican/Guatemalan family, he wants the environment to reflect his sense of family and friendship. The bar has a modern dive bar feel, classy and old school, that’s what how he described it, you’ll have to visit it there to see if you agree. He strives to make diversity a goal for his bar. At a time when most bars cater to a specific demographic, he wants his bar to cater to those looking for a place to relax and enjoy some drinks with friends. His team has been with him since the start almost nine years ago. Check out their social media, https://www.facebook.com/carlitoswaybar/?fref=ts.
The bar has morphed since its inception in 1962 in the corner of Victory and Sepulveda. Carlos, was not sure which drinks at his bar are their best as they are all really good but he did recommend a couple he feels will knock you off your feet, because they are so good. The “Micheladas,” Cucumber Mango Margaritas, over 35 types of tequila and beer, which runs as low as $4 a pint, imported from all over the world.

So as you visit the bar, close your eyes, imagine you are listening to the full album of the Buena Vista Social Club, and enjoy your favorite drinks, I am pretty confident they are willing to try and invent something new just for you.

Enjoy…