Hanging out in the living room listening to records and having a drink and some food is a treasured social ritual and that's exactly what the operators of Lala, the "listening bar" located on the lower level of the buzzy new restaurant June, are going for.
Lala, which officially debuts on Thursday, May 15, completes the bi-level brasserie concept at 3305 Cambie St, and boasts seating for 40 with a selection of dishes from the upstairs menu along with classic cocktails all paired with music selections on vinyl.
The name Lala comes from co-owner Keenan Hood's own family tree; it's his daughter's nickname. (For the record, June is named to honour co-owner Cam Watt's mother.)
Interior of downstairs bar a continuation of restaurant upstairs
Guests will access Lala through June upstairs, and upon descending will pass through the velvet curtains.
The interior of Lala was designed by Mexico City-based Héctor Esrawe (who also designed June, and Watt's Cabo project, Acre) and reflects an extension of the upstairs. The mood is meant to evoke the experience of having dinner with friends then retiring to the living room to continue to gathering with music and drinks.
That music will come courtesy a rotating selection of DJs, who will spin vinyl seven nights a week showcasing a variety of sounds and styles to keep things fresh.
On the menu at Lala: Drinks, dishes from June
For drinks, Lala taps into June's cocktail menu, which was created by bar director Amber Bruce, bar manager Satoshi Yonemori (previously Grapes & Soda), and head bartender Riley Maggs.
Signature drinks reflect a distinct French and Japanese influence, with creations like the Genmaicha Clover Club (Beefeater gin, grappa, lemon, raspberry, horseradish, honey, egg white), Sunflower Mauresque (Pernod, fino, tarragon, sunflower orgeat, lemon, milk, soda), and Blue Fizz (Absolut vodka, lime, calpico, blue banana, egg soda).
Food-wise, guests at Lala will be able to order from a few dishes from upstairs, including snack-able options like the Beef Tartare, Crap Dip with Madeleines, and Crispy Frog Legs.
Lala will be open seven days a week from 6 p.m. to midnight starting Thursday. via Resy are available (guests should select available options under Lala basement bar) and walk-ins are always welcome.
Watch: Dinner and drinks at June on Cambie
New on the 麻豆传媒映画dining scene and already that girl 馃拝 Meet June: moody vibes, French brasserie flair, and cocktails that do not mess around. 馃嵏 From martinis that hint at sour cream & onion chips (trust the process) to rich handmade pasta, steak frites, and soft serve that pairs shockingly well with fries—this spot is all about bold bites and cheeky extras. 馃崯馃馃
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