Furr Trade: Silver Lake’s Newest Bear Trap

BY STEPHAN HORBELT

Silver Lake has always been the locale of choice for gays who desire a less polished nightlife scene. Most of the area’s bars survive without feigning glitz or glamour, which is exactly how the patrons like it. The Faultline, granddaddy of L.A.’s dive bars, is a Silver Lake staple. Its raunch n’ roll attitude and laid back atmosphere keeps a steady group coming back for more every week, and has cemented its reputation as one of L.A.’s foremost leather and Levi bars. The third Saturday of every month now brings a new nightlife event to the Faultline, called Furr Trade, a night meant for the larger, hairier among us.

Furr Trade is L.A.’s newest bear night, a theme guaranteed to do well at Faultline. The fun starts at 9 p.m. and continues until the wee hours, with a night of bear go-go dancers and cheap drinks. Jagermeister shots are only $4 the entire night, and only $3 if you decide to go shirtless and show off your pelt. As if cheap booze wasn’t enough to fill up the bar, the night will also feature giveaways and snacks for the hungrier of the pack.

Upon first glance, you may be confused by what seems to be the bar’s recent installation of wall-to-wall shag carpeting. Stepping into the bar, however, you’ll realize it’s not a renovation but the bar’s Saturday night clientele. If you’re into furry guys who like showing off their hairy chests, complemented by a leather armband or two, this is your kind of crowd. It can be a cross-section of the animal kingdom, but you’re guaranteed to find one of the friendliest, most laid back crowds in L.A. There’s no pretension allowed in this group, which consists of mostly older gentlemen, but also the occasional hot younger guy. Give it a try. You’re sure to find something that suits your palette.

The Faultline’s special event Saturdays are always a fun time, particularly if you’re looking for something new to spice up your weekend. And if you’re looking to start off your Saturday a little earlier, head to the bar sometime before 8 p.m. to take advantage of the bar’s Saturday happy hour, which includes a special on Bud pitchers. After a couple pitchers of beer, you should be more than willing to partake in the shirtless shot special.

Vital Info

Furr Trade

Faultline

4216 Melrose Ave.
When: Every third Saturday
Cover: $5
The Scene: No lions or tigers, just bears
Date Factor: You might meet the daddy of your dreams

MIXOLOGY

BARTENDER: Curtis

This incredibly hot and charming, 5’8”, 164lbs, 33-year-old, California native is not only one of the most popular bartenders at Here Lounge and Fubar he’s also a personal trainer and spin instructor. During his time off he’s either at the gym, taking epicurean cooking classes, drawing, skydiving, camping or playing with his pet rabbit, Jack. This reserved, yet artsy former Special Olympics volleyball coach is also planning on starting his own t-shirt screen printing business. —TONY MIROS

Specialty Drink—“Black Lemonade”

1 part Chambord
2 parts Citron Vodka
2 - Splashes of Sweet & Sour mix
Splash of Cranberry Juice
Serve on the rocks with a lemon garnish