General Lee's — Restaurant in Los Angeles

Came here on a Tuesday night for a small private mixer so only the 2nd floor bar was open for us. The entrance and signage for this bar is so nondescript that we walked right past the door before looking around and noticing the doorman.

At first blush, I thought the name was a bit kitschy for a bar in the heart of Chinatown but you have to respect historical kitsch. The lighting was very muted so I couldn't really appreciate the details that went into revitalizing this space. What I could see was an inviting 1950's era living room with a well-stocked 3-sided bar manned by 2 bartenders serving up beautiful looking fancy drinks. A trip to the bathroom revealed an ornate hand-wash fountain contrasting a simple hallway lined with enclosed red-doored stalls.

With a drive ahead, I opted for a single Wednesday Cat Witbier suggested by the dapper barkeep. Delicious beer but a bad idea letting a cat tangle with the large catfish po boy I just ate.

For the Chinese New Year, they came up with a namesake drink called the Monkey Paw. I can't remember all the ingredients but I believe it had cognac (surprise) and two other classy spirits. If I get a chance to come here again, I would sidle...

Great drinks! Great service! Great music! Great place! Went back a week later and they failed to implement their dress policy accordingly. They only told some people not everyone. My friend raised the issue so he walked around with one of the employees to make certain that anyone and everyone who violated their non posted non enforced dress policy was informed and was being compliant. About 30 minutes later a gwntlemen walked in violating the dress code, but bothing was said to him. Again, when the question was raised, we received excuses after excuses. We left and rossed the street and had a better time with much better drinks at the other establishment. We will NEVER return to this...

Never knew there was nightlife in LA Chinatown until some friends suggested General Lee’s for a night out. Don’t be fooled by the name or the fact it’s in Chinatown though. Most of the patrons and staff were not Asian. It’s a decent space with 2 levels but gets crowded, especially downstairs around the bar and restrooms next to it. Only 1 of the 2 restrooms were functioning the night we went. In the upstairs area, there’s a bit more room to dance, and there are sofas if you want to relax for a minute. Cocktails are unique blends, not really to my liking, but at least they’re more creative than standard...