Inside Caña Rum Bar: DTLA's Tropical Urban Hideaway
- By: Ashley Joy Parker
Taste of the tropics…
Tucked away in a parking structure on Olympic Boulevard in Downtown Los Angeles—less than a 10-minute walk to Staples Center—is Caña Rum Bar, a members-only rum bar with a unique history. Originally built as an office for Edward L. Doheny, the space also featured a greenhouse for his wife, now seamlessly transformed into Caña Rum Bar’s cigar patio.
Still honoring some of the original decor, such as the bird cages hanging in the foyer, Caña exudes a historical charm that instantly welcomes all guests. Translating to sugarcane in Spanish, Caña is renowned for its extensive collection of over 200 rums, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed environment perfect for both connoisseurs and those new to the world of rum.
For an annual membership of just $30, members gain full access to a variety of events, specials, takeovers, rum tastings, and more, all while being transported into a Caribbean escape right in the heart of DTLA.
An events-driven venue since its opening in 2010, Caña embodies the musical and festive spirit of the Caribbean. From weekly rum tastings on Tuesdays to salsa lessons on Thursdays, Caña boasts a range of immersive offerings to transport guests into a lively and tropical realm.
Other events include cumbia nights on Wednesdays, Friday and Saturday DJ sets featuring a variety of calypso, reggaeton, and fun Caribbean beats, Sunday day parties from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Monday “takeover” events featuring other bars within the community and $8 cocktails.
Caña bartenders, true rum aficionados, create cocktails that range from timeless classics to innovative new favorites. The bartenders effortlessly pour up tropical cocktails like the Mojito and Piña Colada but showcase their skills by way of specialty drinks like the Brazilian Necktie, made with serrano and Anaheim pepper-infused Ypioca from Brazil, hot house cucumbers muddled with lime juice, raw sugar, and topped with sea salt and black peppercorn. Or take the Rum Old Fashioned, a unique version of a classic boasting luscious caramel and light oak flavors, made with Flor de Caña 15 yr from Nicaragua, a dash of Angostura bitters, raw sugar, and garnished with orange and lemon peel zest.
Whether serving rum connoisseurs or the rum-curious, Caña bartenders are experts in their knowledge of the spirit and skill in crafting masterpieces. Also available are Caña’s brand new frozen Piña Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri slushies, exclusive Light Lager beer made in collaboration with sister bar All Season Brewing, and the Palma Lager with a smooth, refreshing flavor. Happy Hour runs from Monday-Friday 6 p.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday, 8 p.m.- 10 p.m., for additional deals and offerings.
The Caribbean flare of Caña would not be complete without a cigar, a classic token of luxury and an embodiment of the rich history of Cuba and beyond. Caña boasts an impressive collection of hand-selected cigars and cigarillos behind the bar as a nod to Caribbean culture, allowing guests to indulge in offerings like the Hot Shot, a cigarillo served atop a shot of rum. This distinctive blend of refined indulgence and cultural homage makes Caña Rum Bar a standout destination for those seeking an authentic and immersive experience.
WHY VIST NOW: As the summer season winds down, Caña will continue to delight patrons with salsa lessons, live bands, weekend DJ sets, and an ever-expanding tropical drink menu, ensuring it remains the quintessential destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
Caña Rum Bar Details
714 W Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles
canarumbarla.com
@canarumbarla
Hours: Monday-Friday 6 p.m.-2 a.m., Saturday 8 p.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday 3 p.m.-close
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 6 p.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
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