Since the turn of the 20th century, the Hollywood Bar was a fixture in Dolores. But when the historic building went up in flames Aug. 2, 2012, many locals likely believed that a piece of the town’s soul would be lost forever.
Thanks to the efforts of former Hollywood co-owner and cook, Travis Giddings, however, the famous bar will live on.
Now located on the east side of Dolores in the building that formally housed Karla’s Kitchen, the new Hollywood features a large piece of the original bar, antique foot rails, lots of Hollywood memorabilia and more.
Patrons interested in watching sports will have the luxury of choosing from three flat-screen televisions while those interested in playing pool or listening to music will have access to two pool tables and a jukebox.
In many ways, the new Hollywood feels just like the old Hollywood and ultimately, that’s exactly what Giddings was hoping for.
“Everybody is already saying that it feels like the (old) Hollywood Bar,” said Giddings. “The same atmosphere is already here. I don’t know, I guess the old souls that sat at the old original bar have followed us to the new building.”
In addition to the familiar atmosphere, the new Hollywood will use the same menu as the original business, complete with a full array of drink choices, hot wings, nachos, battered mushrooms and burgers.
“It’s the same menu,” Giddings said. “All the prices on the liquor are the same as they were before. Basically, this is the same business, just at a new location.”
Live music also figures to be common at the new Hollywood, which already hosted its first band, “The Vanishing Breed,” on Sept. 6.
Along with providing a comfortable environment, great food and top-notch drinks, the new Hollywood will continue its time-honored tradition of giving back to the community.
“We love Dolores,” Giddings said. “I’d like to thank the town and the mayor and all the rest of the people that had a hand in supporting me in the process of reopening. Once we get up and going, I’d like to help out with school events and support the football team.”
Just like its predecessor, the new Hollywood figures to be a Dolores fixture for years to come.
“What I’m really pushing for is to re-create the feeling of the Hollywood without having any of the old problems,” said Giddings. I want to create an environment where everybody is going to feel welcome, comfortable and relaxed.”
“Back in the day, (the Hollywood) was a rough place,” said Giddings. “It’s not the Old West anymore. We’re trying to bring it into the 21st century with some style and class.”
Dolores feels more like itself with the Hollywood back. And for a town and bar with such a rich and storied history, that is a good thing.