by Celia Soudry
LA Weekly Squid Ink
April 2, 2012

Springtime is upon us — you can tell by the pastel-colored clothing and cocktails around town.

As some of our favorite bars close (Lou’s days are numbered, Palate Food + Wine), others emerge, not necessarily taking their place.

1920s-themed “gastropub,” The Charleston recently took over the shuttered Angels space on Wilshire Boulevard. There, you’ll find toasted  (small, but highly recommended), marinated olives, bacon-wrapped dates, pulled pork sliders and cocktails served in spiffy glasses (try the Minted Mule). We visited the intimate bar on opening weekend (Saturday night) to find a packed house.