Post #500943 by JOHN-O on Sat, Dec 26, 2009 10:32 PM

OK, here's pictures of the Safari Room in Mission Hills ( San Fernando Valley) which is the only operational mid-century Safari-themed bar/restaurant in the Los Angeles area. I don't think anyone else here has identified any others. "Jungle-style" is even more of a vanishing breed than original Tiki-style was. :(

Although there are numerous items of African decor, I can tell the place is devolving into a locals' sport bar as was evident by the 5 TV screens broadcasting college football. I don't mind too much, in Los Angeles I'm thankful for any mid-century establishment that still feels vintage. The existing masks, spears, leopard-skinned shields, and kitschy outdoor signs are a bonus. I spoke briefly with the owner of the last 6 years about their origin. She said she didn't know, but she was proud of the fact that she had several generations of patrons who had fond childhood memories of the place. (I wish I was one but I grew up in the other Valley.)

I encourage mid-century pop culture fans in the area to visit the place. For those making the trip to the Tonga Hut in North Hollywood, the Safari Room is 9 miles north of there at 15426 Devonshire Street, Mission Hills.

The food and cocktails are very reasonable. (There was a Mai Tai on the drink menu but I was sticking with gin.)

[ Edited by: JOHN-O 2009-12-26 23:28 ]