If you’ve ever made your way over to Roque & Mark’s Stanford West building, you’ll recognize the setting of Los Angeles Magazine’s recent photoshoot with Issa Rae. For their October cover, Los Angeles Magazine featured the actress, writer, and producer, with her gorgeous cover shoot having been set in Offhand Wine Bar. Los Angeles Magazine shared beautiful photos of Rae enjoying the restaurant and walking outside the building.
The article starts with a description of Rae saying “Issa Rae is actually glowing, wearing all gold and catching the light as she perches on a stool inside Offhand, a wine bar that recently opened on a busy corner of Santa Monica Boulevard at the base of a luxury condo complex. Outside, a car dealership fills the view beyond the bar’s floor-to-ceiling windows with various models of shiny Beamers. Above her, residents in the building’s amenity-filled apartments are no doubt readying themselves to meet friends downstairs for happy hour” (Leta Shy).
Throughout her inspiring interview, Rae describes her life growing up in South Los Angeles, and how she has changed the stereotypical narrative associated with the neighborhood through her work. She also cites some of her go-to spots in LA and Santa Monica, with Offhand Wine Bar making the list.
Located on the bottom level of the Stanford West Building at 3008 Santa Monica Boulevard, Offhand Wine Bar is a must-visit for lovers of wine in the Santa Monica area. On weekends, the wine bar features special guests, including DJs and gourmet food such as oysters shucked to order. Offhand is open Monday through Thursday 5 PM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday 5 PM to 12 AM, and Sundays 4 PM to 9 PM. For reservations and private events contact info@offhandwinebar.com.
In the daytime, the space doubles as Pleasy Enjoy Cafe with coffee, breakfast, and lunch selections. Favorites include the maple horchata latte and the avocado toast, as well as the ham and cheese croissant. Beer and wine are available all day. Free parking is located at the building. Open every day 7 AM to 4 PM.