The Arts District has a new spot for those who appreciate their movies with a side of spirited conversation and a good Negroni. CineOpera has taken over the former L.A. Cha Cha Chá space, transforming it into an amaro bar centered around a substantial screen.
Maintaining much of the decor from its previous life, CineOpera aims for an indoor-outdoor atmosphere. While occasional movie screenings are a central feature, the space leans into a social viewing experience. Patrons can reserve a prime seat directly in front of the screen for $5, with the movie's sound piped throughout the venue. However, for those with obstructed views, the ambiance shifts to something more akin to watching a film at a friend's house, complete with the inevitable conversational tangents that often accompany such gatherings. On nights when the screen is dark, the energy ramps up further, sometimes featuring a DJ. Yet, even then, CineOpera manages to keep a consistent “living room at a party” feel.
The food menu, while concise, offers a mix of lighter bites and a few more substantial options. Diners can find hearty dishes like a tomato rigatoni and the essential rooftop Caesar salad. For those grazing between sips, empanadas are on offer, designed to pair well with a bottle of wine. It’s the kind of menu that carries you through the evening, even if a friend’s drama suddenly starts colliding with the movie playing in the background.
As an amaro bar, there's a clear emphasis on Italian amari and wines sourced from smaller producers. Yet, the venue boasts a full bar, capable of crafting more than just what's on the specialty cocktail list. Bartenders are adept at whipping up classic libations such as a Paper Plane or a Hanky Panky without issue or substitution. While the wine list holds its own against other wine bars in the area, it doesn't necessarily stand out as revolutionary.
For those who appreciate a communal, often chatty, film experience—where asking “Who’s that?” or “What’s happening?” isn’t just tolerated but expected—CineOpera provides a new option in the Arts District. It’s a space where, as the saying goes, it “provides a safe space for you from cocktails to credits,” inviting patrons to enjoy a movie soundtrack serving as background to the evening's main event.