A few posts ago I wrote about the great dinner I had at Fin in Culver City. But at the end of it, I left you with a cliffhanger about a speakeasy that lay tucked away behind the restaurant. That speakeasy is The Alley. The Alley is named after its convenient location and even though it looks unassuming on the outside, it’s gorgeous on the inside.

Taking a step inside, you’re taken from the busy back streets of Culver City and to a portal of beauty circa 1920. The color scheme blends a cool blue with accents of brown and white that emphasizes the furniture, fabrics, and animal sculptures. Yeah, you read that right. They have the heads of various animals strategically placed throughout the lounge. A rhino stares directly at you from the bar, and a moose head watches you from behind. I like the rhino because it helps me know how sober I am. If I’m good, I can stare it down with no problem. If I’m too tipsy I’ll lose the staring contest and topple over.

For this night, one drink wouldn’t topple me over. The bartender made the Smirking Rhino ($12). It had Rye whisky, muddled ginger, agave, and a mint leaf. It was a stiff drink that had a strong flavor thanks to the ginger.

I was hoping this could be the drink for me, but I’m a wuss when it comes to whiskey. It was an honest attempt, but stronger than I can manage. However, if whiskey were my drink of choice this would probably be one I request. On the other hand, if you’re a whiskry lover I encourage you to give this a shot when you check out The Alley. But if you’re simply looking for a gorgeous venue to enjoy the night, then find your way to this hidden spot, you’ll love it from the minute you step inside!

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Address: 12223 W Washington Blvd Culver City, CA 90066
Phone: (310) 596-8257
Hours: Monday and Tuesday – 6:00pm to 12:30am, Wednesday and Thursday – 6:00pm to 1:30am, Friday and Saturday 6:00pm to 2:00am, and closed on Sunday
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