Hyperion Social is the New Neighborhood Bar Keeping The Lights on At Night in Silver Lake

Many a passerby have been wondering what's going on inside 2611 Hyperion Avenue in Silver Lake the past few months and we now know the answer. Hyperion Social, a new neighboorhood bar, has opened its doors.

The establishment from hospitality veteran David Allen is serving craft cocktails and small plates with even better vibes. An experienced manager and bartender before that, Allen has worked in hospitality for more than a decade.

The proprietor was on the opening team of Tao Group's LAVO in New York City and made a name for himself in L.A. at STK (on La Cienega and in Westwood), Pink Taco, The District by Hannah An, and Los Balcones, where he conceptualized their next door lounge, The Parker Room. Most recently, he was manager at Rock & Reilly's at USC.

"I've always loved the vibe of Silver Lake and I wanted to bring back nights for the people who don't want to go to bed early," Allen said. "We soft opened last Saturday and kept the doors open until 1:45 a.m., and we had a steady stream of people coming in, wondering who we are and what we were serving. It feels really cool to be a place where people can hangout for late nights."

While Hyperion Social may be open til late, it gets things started at 4 p.m. with a Social Hour every Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. where well drinks and wine are $7, beer is $5 and craft cocktails are $10.

Small plates include a ground chuck burger, sticky blueberry wings, Brussels sprouts, charcuterie board, truffle fries, a Caesar salad and tacos. Specialty cocktails include the Espress Yourself espresso martini which features shaved chocolate, Hot Hyperion spicy margarita and a Mezcal Negroni.

The bar is open Tuesday to Saturday, 4 p.m. to close, and Hyperion Social is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

While the establishment is already open, the official grand opening is this weekend, July 11-13. In celebration, well drinks will be $10 all weekend long and there will be special giveaways as well.

Formerly the location of The Friend and Charcoal BBQ Bourbon and Beers before that, Allen decided to bring a more upscale feel to the location.

"The pink had to go," Allen laughed, "We thought a black and white vibe, with some gold accents and a wood floor would be a pleasant look for everyone."

Also gone are the awnings outside to allow the freshly cleaned windows to sparkle and let people see what's going on inside. The Friend was known to keep their curtains closed at night but that won't be happening at Hyperion Social.

"We aren't keeping any secrets over here. We are open and we are ready to make friends and be a part of this community," Allen said. "My staff and I can't wait to meet everyone and have a great time."

Follow Hyperion Social @hyperion.social on Instagram and follow David Allen at @dave_allen.