I often get asked which bars are my favorites in LA. I personally have a rotating Top 3, with my Top Ten being more or less staples. Because people seem interested, I’m going to make a point of publicly declaring my favorite ones from now on – and why I like them so much.

LA DESCARGA is one of those places that I wish not so many people knew about. I mean, its so good, you want to keep it all for yourself - and maybe a few select friends. But, nowadays, with info at the speed of tapping fingertips, nothing is sacred, nothing is secret. So, as the saying goes, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em!

Mark and John Houston, the sibling duo behind several LA bars wanted to bring Latin culture alive in the LA bar scene, and managed to do just that with La Descarga. First off, I am quite fond of the creative team behind La Descarga, Pablo Moix and Steve Livigni. They are truly passionate, work hard and 'get' that bar experience should be about the guest, not the bartender. The bar staff is the conduit of the establishment and the drinks. And, if the establishment is welcoming, fun and full of kick-ass cocktails, the mixology team should be as well.

Then, there’s the ambiance. I don’t want to spoil any surprises for La Descarga virgins, so let’s just say that if you’ve been to PDT in New York (whereby you make reservations to go ahead of time, and enter through a phone booth inside a hotdog joint), you’ll have some idea of what its like to arrive at La Descarga.