‘the must’ wine bar uncorked at 5th and spring

Now open at 5th and Spring in the former Lime Cafe space is The Must Wine Bar, the latest in a string of openings geared toward real Downtown residents.

In just one short month since signing a lease, the space has undergone a complete transformation:  Walls have been torn down, old "diner-style" seating replaced, a revamped menu instituted and warm woods installed at the bar area for a more relaxed vibe.

Oh, about that bar.  First-time owner Coly Haan, who has a background in hospitality and wine service, has carefully selected and stocked bottles with a focus on accessible, affordable wines --  a smart move in a neighborhood that rewards adventuresome ideas on an approachable scale.

"We have a beer and wine license only, and that's a good thing.  I want the focus to be on the wines," she says on her second day in business, before explaining that The Must will not serve soju-based cocktails or other newfangled concoctions.

In an increasingly crowded market, The Must is defined juts as much by what it isn't than what it is.  "We don't serve tapas; this isn't a Spanish bar," she says.  "You can call it 'pop cuisine,' but it's more like white trash food with a twist." Think sweet potato tots, fish sticks made from trout, and chicken pot pie.   Prices range from $5.00 to $8.00.

Some local loftees were raving about the fluffernutter — an almond-and-peanut-butter spread with bananas and marshmallow fluff in sandwich form.

Still in “soft opening” mode, expect a grand opening and full menu with entrees in January.  Though this is the 68th new venture on our list this year, this will be a must-see experience.

The Must Wine Bar
118 W 5th St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
213-627-1162
 themustbar.com