THE LINCOLN
GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING

The busy stretch along Lincoln Boulevard near Venice Boulevard in Venice Beach isn’t that scenic, actually, it’s pretty damn industrial and better known for its array of bike shops and auto dealerships. But the area is slowly morphing and helping bring about change in a good way is The Lincoln, a relaxed and swanky bar that’s an ideal spot to chill and imbibe.

From the team behind such bars as Power House, Habana, and Warwick, comes The Lincoln. Even though I haven’t been the biggest fan of all the partners’ previous watering holes, this space manages to get it right. While the outside isn’t much, just like its neighborhood, wander into The Lincoln and you’ll be taken in by its inviting yet industrial setting. There’s a lovely patio area perfect for Southern California evenings (and Sunday afternoons), as well as a large indoor bar area that just screams have a cocktail or two.

The drink menu, designed by bartender Cameron Dodge-White, is pretty simple with only six signature cocktails upon the bar’s opening. And drinks are only $12, which is pretty reasonable for a west side bar, especially considering the hefty prices some of the other bars in the group’s portfolio charge.

The classic Boulevardier with bourbon, Campari, Carpano and orange bitters was decent but not great. Unfortunately, The Danger Zone, a vodka drink with St. Germaine, grapefruit, and champagne float, didn’t live up to its name and tasted like salty champagne.

The Hot Route was a hot mess suffering from poor balance as the mix of aged rum, wooded demerara, grapefruit and lime just didn’t come together. I can’t speak to the Menthylamine because I’m not a fan of mint, although I do like gin a lot. This drink just wasn’t for me from the get-to.

The bar did get it right with The Ol’ Horizon, a pleasant mix of tequila, Aperol, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth and lemon bitters resulting in a very Negroni tasting cocktail. This just is just pleasing if you’re a fan of a Negroni.

Likewise, the Cal’s Old Tyme Cure-All with whiskey, House B&B, lemon, cinnamon honey and Earl Grey is just so nice and refreshing. This is a great starter drink or perfect for a Sunday afternoon where you won’t want to stop at just one.

The bar, which carries exactly 100 spirits, also serves nearly a dozen beers (bottled and draught) as well as a nice selection of wines. While there are only snacks for sale, a food truck is usually parked in front and guests are allowed to buy food and take it inside.

Kudos to designer Matt Winter who really brought the space to life. The bar feels part automotive shop and part what I would envision a South Beach bar to feel like—relaxed and ultra-laid back—but keep in mind that I’ve never been to Florida so that vision is just all in my head. But The Lincoln is now a cool spot to chill and enjoy a drink in a part of town that really needed that.

The Lincoln is located at 2536 Lincoln Blvd in Venice. Hours: Mon-Sat 7pm to 2am. Sun 2pm to 10pm.

Story by Jose Martinez

Photography By: The Lincoln