The Varnish was an influential hidden speakeasy located at 118 E 6th St in downtown Los Angeles, positioned behind Cole's Deli. Opened in 2009 in partnership with the late Sasha Petraske of Milk & Honey fame, the intimate venue earned the Spirited Awards' "Best American Cocktail Bar" title in 2012 and appeared on the World's 50 Best Bars list. The establishment featured candlelit wood-paneled interiors enhanced by live jazz performances, setting a standard for craft cocktail culture in Los Angeles over its 15-year history.
