When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
The 1917 at San Antonio Winery
Why The 1917 at San Antonio Winery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The 1917 at San Antonio Winery is an exceptional venue located within the historic San Antonio Winery in Downtown Los Angeles, a site established in 1917 by Santo Cambianica and run by four generations of the Riboli family. This spot offers a unique blend of rich history, award-winning wines, and a warm, inviting atmosphere making it an ideal place for friends to gather and celebrate. The winery has persevered through significant challenges, such as Prohibition, by specializing in sacramental wines and later expanding into a broad range of award-winning selections including sparkling, dry, and sweet varieties. Visitors to The 1917 can enjoy wine tastings, guided tours that showcase the winery’s storied past and winemaking process, as well as a delightful Italian-inspired menu at the onsite restaurant. The venue also offers versatile event spaces perfect for intimate gatherings or larger celebrations, all complemented by ample free parking and a convenient downtown location. This makes The 1917 at San Antonio Winery not just a place to drink wine, but a cultural and social experience rooted in over a century of family dedication and passion for wine.
Here's what people think of The 1917 at San Antonio Winery
As of recent, The 1917 at San Antonio Winery holds a 4.7-star rating based on 127 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise The 1917 at San Antonio Winery for its authentic wine tasting experiences and its friendly, knowledgeable staff who enhance the visit with insightful tours and explanations. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to explore both the historical significance of the winery and the wine production process, often citing the tours as highlights of their visit. Positive reviews frequently mention the quality and diversity of the wines, describing the tasting session as educational and enjoyable, and guests often compliment the accompanying Italian cuisine, which offers delicious options that complement the wines perfectly. Additionally, the venue's atmosphere and the historic setting add a unique charm that visitors find special. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around the experience being less appealing for individuals who are not wine enthusiasts, and a few reviews mention crowds or the limited seating during busier times. However, such critiques are minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive reception. In conclusion, reviews affirm that The 1917 at San Antonio Winery is a welcoming destination, perfect for wine lovers and groups seeking an engaging and memorable outing, rich with history and excellent hospitality.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ann Nguyen
We came to The 1917 Wine Bar and Bistro to celebrate my graduation, and it was a great choice. The outdoor space was really nice, and the live jazz made the lunch feel special. The staff were kind and helpful. We started with red wine, which we enjoyed with the crispy calamari and tasty meatballs, the sauces were really good. For the main dishes, we had the chicken salad, spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and cauliflower pizza. Everything tasted fresh and was full of flavor. It was a lovely lunch, and we’re happy we picked this place for the celebration. Would definitely come back!
Meri meri Quite contrary
This was our first time here. The atmosphere was very beautiful, perfect for brunch or a nice lunch out. I ordered the sangria, which was delicious and sweet and a lasagna for lunch. The lasagna was very flavorful. The sauce was tasty, with plenty of cheese and meat. It is definitely shareable. The service was great. Our server was attentive and friendly and gave us some great recommendations. I will be back!
Wendy Manzanila
We came here for brunch and ordered the steak and eggs and ribeye. Unfortunately, the steak did not meet our expectations—definitely not a place I’d recommend for steak. It was chewy, tasteless just not good at all. The pork belly was delicious. The ambiance of the restaurant is lovely, but the food quality doesn’t match the price. For brunch, we spent $165 for two people, which felt steep for what we got. The service was also lacking. While our server was friendly, they took a long time to bring our drinks and check on us, which was disappointing. If I ever return, it’ll only be for the wine and their amazing bread, which were the highlights of the visit. Otherwise, I’d look elsewhere for a better brunch experience.
Phoenix Virtual Management
We, ladies, had a SaturDate lunch and we were so happy they accommodated us as a walk in. It is our first time dining at 1917 as we usually go inside the restaurant. Our server Bernardo absolutely was the best. Bernardo was so attentive and also took his time to explain the menu and even went to the bartender to give my friend a nonalcoholic version of the drink I was drinking. The food serving was very generous. I had the steak and bone marrow and I could not finish it. The ambiance was perfect for our little get together. I totally recommend this place and I do hope you get Bernardo to help you.
Coyo Burciaga
My wife and I went here on Sat. 6/29/24. We started with the wine tasting, then tour and finished with a great lunch on the patio. Belle was our server and was excellent. We met Santo who was helpful and welcoming, we will be back again. We highly recommend!
How to reach The 1917 at San Antonio Winery
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Why The 1917 at San Antonio Winery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The 1917 at San Antonio Winery with your friends?
Gathering with friends is about creating memorable experiences, and The 1917 at San Antonio Winery offers an unparalleled environment to do just that. This location is not only the historic heart of one of Los Angeles’ last producing wineries but also a vibrant spot where tradition meets contemporary elegance. With an impressive 4.7 rating from over 127,000 reviews, it’s clear that guests appreciate the unique blend of ambiance, quality wine, and excellent service. Unlike generic venues, The 1917 invites visitors into an immersive wine country experience right in the city, where you can savor award-winning wines without the long drive. The inviting outdoor patio, live music such as jazz sessions, and warm, attentive staff combine to create a welcoming atmosphere perfect for reconnecting with friends or family. Whether celebrating a milestone, enjoying a casual get-together, or simply indulging in great food and wine, this spot ensures your group feels special and connected in a beautiful setting steeped in history.
What activities can you enjoy at The 1917 that make it ideal for a group meetup?
The 1917 at San Antonio Winery is a hub of activities designed to engage all kinds of groups, making it a perfect social destination. First and foremost, the wine tasting experience is expertly curated; sommelier-led tastings guide guests through flights of award-winning estate wines from California, alongside imported sparkling wines from Italy and France. These tastings are paired with delicious charcuterie plates, enhancing the interaction of tastes and providing a shared experience that sparks conversation and enjoyment. The tastings are conducted in an elegant outdoor patio area, offering an open-air ambiance that adds to the pleasure of gathering. Adding to the experience, there is live jazz music on some days, crafting a soothing and festive soundscape that complements the relaxed yet refined setting. The venue also features a full menu designed by Head Chef Joe Dijamco, delivering modern takes on traditional dishes that cater to groups looking for a satisfying meal alongside their wines. This mix of wine education, culinary delight, and live entertainment creates a multilayered experience ideal for group bonding.
How does the food complement the wine and overall experience at The 1917?
The food at The 1917 is thoughtfully prepared to pair beautifully with the winery’s extensive selection of wines, elevating any gathering to a gourmet outing. The menu showcases a modern interpretation of traditional cuisine, skillfully crafted by Head Chef Joe Dijamco, who emphasizes fresh ingredients and flavor balance. Signature dishes such as braised and smoked short ribs, pork belly with root vegetables, and creatively indulgent desserts like blueberry brioche bread pudding with pistachio gelato provide rich, memorable flavors that complement the tasting notes of the wines served. Guests often remark on the harmony between the savory and sweet dishes and the wines, which enhances the sensory experience of both food and drink. This thoughtful pairing makes The 1917 not just a place to drink wine but a destination where culinary artistry and winemaking excellence come together, making it a perfect choice when hosting friends or family who appreciate finer flavors in a convivial setting.
What makes the atmosphere and location of The 1917 particularly suited for social gatherings?
The atmosphere at The 1917 at San Antonio Winery effortlessly combines history, elegance, and comfort, making it an ideal venue for social gatherings. Located in the original Riboli Family winery building dating back to 1917, the site carries a rich heritage and authentic charm that guests find appealing and unique compared to modern commercial tasting rooms. The outdoor patio is spacious and beautifully designed, providing an inviting setting for groups to relax, chat, and enjoy their wine tastings in the fresh air. Live music events, such as jazz performances, further enhance the ambiance by adding a lively yet sophisticated soundtrack to the experience. The staff is known for being welcoming and attentive, ensuring groups feel well cared for and comfortable throughout their visit. Situated conveniently within Los Angeles, this location allows easy access without the hassle of long-distance travel, making it a practical and memorable destination for group meetups ranging from casual brunches to celebratory dinners.
How can different groups tailor their experience at The 1917 to suit their occasion?
The 1917 provides flexible experiences to suit a wide variety of group dynamics and occasions, whether you’re planning a casual outing, a family celebration, or a more formal event. For smaller groups or intimate gatherings, the sommelier-led tastings with curated wine flights and charcuterie provide a structured yet fun activity that encourages discovery and shared enjoyment. Larger groups can take advantage of the spacious outdoor patio for brunch or dinner service, where the diverse menu can accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences. The venue’s schedule allows for both daytime and evening visits, so groups looking to celebrate with lunch, early afternoon tastings, or sunset dinners have options. The presence of live music on select days adds an entertainment element that some groups may want to plan around for enhanced enjoyment. Whether it’s a graduation, birthday, or an informal meetup, The 1917’s staff can help personalize the experience, making it feel special and tailored. This flexibility and attention to guest needs make it an excellent spot to rally friends or family for any occasion.
What are practical details visitors should know before planning their visit to The 1917?
When planning a visit to The 1917 Wine Bar & Bistro, there are several practical details that ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The location is at 737 Lamar Street in Los Angeles, situated at the historic original winery site, offering easy navigation and parking options nearby. Hours of operation vary slightly during the week, with tastings and dining available from Wednesday through Sunday; brunch service runs Friday to Sunday until early afternoon, perfect for late morning meetups. Tastings are hosted outdoors for groups of up to eight, providing an intimate yet social experience, while indoor tastings occur on Mondays and Tuesdays. Reservations are recommended to secure your preferred time and accommodate your group size, especially during weekends or special events. The venue observes major holidays, closing on days such as New Year’s, Memorial Day, and Thanksgiving, so checking the calendar ahead helps avoid scheduling conflicts. Lastly, the staff’s commitment to excellent service means any special requests or accommodations can usually be arranged, making The 1917 a hassle-free venue to consider for your next group outing.