The Golden Gopher

The Golden Gopher is a restored 1905 dive bar located at 417 West 8th Street in Downtown Los Angeles. Originally named The Golden Sun Saloon, it reopened as the Golden Gopher in 2004. Its historic 1905 liquor license exempts it from modern ordinances, allowing features like selling alcohol near the front door and offering liquor-to-go. Visitors come for the bar's rich history and unique character. It is rumored that former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt was an early owner. Currently managed by entrepreneur Cedd Moses under the 213 Hospitality group, this dive bar offers a glimpse into Old West saloon culture while serving drinks in a vintage setting. A destination for those seeking an authentic, no-frills watering hole with a story.