There is a bar in London, England, called Gangsters [Sic] Tequila Paradise. I would describe it to you, but perhaps it is best to let the establishment reveal its concept in its own words:
“Enter down a darkened staircase and get hit with a classic LCC vibe, inspired by Mexico’s second home, Down-town LA! Expect references to “ESE’s” and “Bloods & Crips”, a playful twist on gang life, with “gang sign” art work, “pimped out” sexy bandana clad graffiti girls, and even lumberjack shirt furnishings, (no doubt buttoned to the top!).
You’ll see graffiti-covered walls depicting gun-toting clown figures and mean cityscapes. The focus of the action remains at the bar where there’s hot contest for a stool seat. Expect to be “sippin” on “Gin and Juice”.”
Wow.
And how, precisely, is this “playful twist on gang life”/crass commercialization (complete with chalk-like outlines) of gang culture and genuine human suffering on this side of the world being received in London?
Fluid London says: “Infamous for being one of the most impressive cocktail havens in London, Gangsters Tequila Paradise seems to house everything that LA vomited up. They’ve got bandana graffiti girls, ‘Bloods & Crips’ references and gang art furnishings.”
I see.
This morning, I wrote the owner of the bar on Twitter after a follower of mine identified him as J.J. Goodman.
.@JJamesGoodman Hi JJ, basing a bar concept on human suffering isn't "playful"; it's a bad look. Come to L.A. Visit some spots with me. /1 pic.twitter.com/VykWPcMy4K
— Ryan Gattis (@Ryan_Gattis) February 14, 2017
.@JJamesGoodman Meet some real humans. Understand how life for the most vulnerable people in L.A. County gang areas isn't a cartoon. /2
— Ryan Gattis (@Ryan_Gattis) February 14, 2017
.@JJamesGoodman If you're unable to come, I'm happy to sit down with you when next I'm in London (April) & we can chat more about this. /3
— Ryan Gattis (@Ryan_Gattis) February 14, 2017
I suppose we’ll have to see how that goes.
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from L.A. TACO
Juárez-Style Burritos Have Arrived in Southern California, And They are Already Selling Out In Less than An Hour
The month-old strip mall taquería in Anaheim make all their flour tortillas from scratch using both lard and butter, resulting in an extremely tender vehicle for their juicy guisados like carne en su jugo, carne deshebrada, chile colorado, chile relleno, and chicharrón. Every tortilla is cooked to order, too.
Urgent: L.A. TACO Falling Short of Fundraising Goals and Needs Your Support
Emergency. This is not a test. This is not a ruse. This is not a marketing scheme. We need your support if we're going to make it and every single membership counts.
What To Eat In L.A. This Weekend: Mexican-Style Pastrami, ‘Trashburgers,’ and Flamin’ Jim Morrisons
Plus, a new shawarma spot in Tarzana and the country's first wine festival dedicated solely to orange "skin contact" wine happening in Hollywood.
The 11 Best Backyard Restaurants in Los Angeles
Despite many requests to publish this guide, L.A. TACO has been somewhat protective of these gems to not "burn out the spots." However, we wanted to share it with our small, loyal pool of paid members, as we appreciate your support (and know you to be okay, non-NARCs). Please enjoy responsibly and keep these 'hood secrets...secrets.
Here’s What an L.A. TACO Membership Gets You and Why You Should Support Local Journalism
With more than 30 members-only perks at the best L.A. restaurants, breweries, and dispensaries waiting to be unlocked, the L.A. TACO membership pays for itself!
