The perfect in-town escape.
(Credit: Future Bar Inc.)
While L-Lo isn't exactly a seal of approval, nevertheless, I'd heard Glow was gorgeous, with earth-tone decor, fire pits, water fountains and cabanas—the whole vacation experience right here in MDR. So I checked into the Marriott for a 24-hour getaway. My two goals were simple: Hit the beach and get drunk.
Naturally, I started my vacation at the bar. (Hey, when you're on vacation, you can start drinking as early as you like.) There were so many options: Key lime martinis, pomegranate cocktails, peartinis, sidecars and Bellinis. But I went straight for the cocktail made with VeeV, an açaí liqueur that I've become obsessed with. I was relaxing on a couch and watching a seagull swoop in when, of course, a bunch of tourists wearing bejeweled Crocs sat down next to me…even though most of the bar was still empty. A new busload must have just arrived.
I had a good buzz going at this point and was ready to hit the beach. I walked down to the adorable boardwalk, which I didn't even know existed, but ditched the beach when I saw how packed it was. Instead I went to the harbor and rented a kayak, something I'd never do if I weren't on vacation.
By 9 p.m., the vibe at Glow had completely changed. There were big black-clad bouncers blocking the entrance, and everyone inside was dressed in their skimpiest and studliest attire, eating tapas-sized meals and cuddling in the communal seating areas. Who were these people? Then I realized: They were mostly tourists, and I could act as crazy and uncool as I wanted because I'd never see them again.
And therein lies the brilliance of Glow.
Drinks: The bar serves an upscale menu of classic and creative cocktails. If you're feeling fruity, order the Bellini martini made with peach schnapps, peach puree and sparkling wine.
Crowd: Glow attracts a healthy dose of tourists from Middle America, but if you think of it, so does L.A. The difference is, most of the folks at Glow only stay for a week.
Decor: If I did yoga, I'd want my studio to look like this Zen-inspired patio bar with fire pits, water walls and beige couches.
Click here for Glow's address, phone number and website.
Alexandra Le Tellier is Bars & Clubs editor for Metromix Los Angeles.
