LA Weekly Best Of 2008 award
SKYBARK
1026 S. Santa Fe St.
L.A., CA
(213) 891-1722
After traveling the world as a professional snowboarder, Brandon Hochman was frustrated. There weren’t enough places he could go with Mish Mash, his beloved Malti-poo. So when Hochman returned to L.A., he created Sky Bark, a bar/lounge downtown specifically designed for dog owners who want to enjoy the city’s nightlife without leaving their furry friends at home. The club has an extremely irregular schedule — events are usually themed and word gets out through Sky Bark’s Web site — but the dog parties are a spectacle. Guests enjoy 360-degree views of the city from Sky Bark’s rooftop bar, dancing the night away on two dance floors with other dog lovers. There’s usually live music, with DJs, catered snacks and a 3,000-square-foot doggy play area. Canine attendees are treated to Sky Bark’s specialty drink, the “Muttini,” a combination of chicken broth and vitamin water served in a martini glass. Fresh grass is installed for each event, allowing dogs to do their business without having to leave the lounge. Earlier this year, Sky Bark worked with MTV2’s Rob and Big to host an event for Meaty the bulldog’s 14th “barkday,” which featured an ice sculpture of Meaty himself. Other events have included doggy fashion shows, sample sales and a “Woofer” Ball, with proceeds from silent auctions donated to local animal-rescue centers. Fido has had a long day. So buy him a stiff Muttini and ask him for a dance.
—Gina Pollack
