I visited LA's new Blockbuster pop-up bar and it was like stepping back into the '90s — see inside

Danielle BauterDec 7, 2022, 22:02 IST

Danielle Bauter toured the new Blockbuster pop-up bar in Los Angeles.Danielle Bauter

Entertainment companies Bucket Listers and New Gold Empire created a Blockbuster pop-up bar in LA.
Danielle Bauter visited the pop-up and said it's like walking into a real Blockbuster video store.

On October 28, two entertainment companies, Bucket Listers and New Gold Empire, opened a Blockbuster-themed pop-up bar in Los Angeles.

Blockbuster Bar on Melrose Avenue.Danielle Bauter

Blockbuster was one of the most popular video-rental stores in the '90s and early 2000s.

The interior of the last remaining Blockbuster store in Bend, Oregon.Andrew Marszal/AFP via Getty Images

At the height of its popularity in 2004, it had almost 9,100 locations nationwide, but eventually fell victim to the digital age and went bankrupt in 2010.

Screenshot of the Blockbuster website.Blockbuster

Only one Blockbuster video store remains in Bend, Oregon, and the owners license the Blockbuster trademark each year from Dish Network, which purchased the company for $320 million after its bankruptcy.

The interior of the last remaining Blockbuster store in Bend, Oregon.Andrew Marszal/AFP via Getty Images

Only one Blockbuster video store remains in Bend, Oregon, and the owners license the Blockbuster trademark each year from Dish Network, which purchased the company for $320 million after its bankruptcy.

Bucket Listers also purchased a Blockbuster license. Derek Berry, the vice president of experiences, said he's always loved the nostalgia of the '90s and wanted to make the pop-up bar an actual Blockbuster experience.

Derek Berry, the Bucket Listers vp of experiences.Danielle Bauter

Bucket Listers also purchased a Blockbuster license. Derek Berry, the vice president of experiences, said he's always loved the nostalgia of the '90s and wanted to make the pop-up bar an actual Blockbuster experience.

When I heard about it, I thought it was such a cool idea and so timely with the popularity of the Blockbuster documentary and TV series on Netflix.

Learning more about the Blockbuster pop-up bar from Berry.Danielle Bauter

I attended the Blockbuster pop-up bar media preview, in advance of the LA opening. The pop-up is located on Melrose Avenue in the heart of the Fairfax District and will run through February 2023 or longer, depending on demand.

Danielle Bauter toured the new Blockbuster pop-up bar in Los Angeles.Danielle Bauter

I attended the Blockbuster pop-up bar media preview, in advance of the LA opening. The pop-up is located on Melrose Avenue in the heart of the Fairfax District and will run through February 2023 or longer, depending on demand.

Walking up, I immediately noticed the emblematic yellow and blue adorning the exterior walls, along with matching chairs. If I didn't know any better, I would've thought I was approaching the video store itself.

Blockbuster video store or bar? It was difficult to tell.Danielle Bauter

Walking up, I immediately noticed the emblematic yellow and blue adorning the exterior walls, along with matching chairs. If I didn't know any better, I would've thought I was approaching the video store itself.

I hadn't seen a Blockbuster card in ages, but I learned that this card was my admission ticket. For $29, the Blockbuster card gives guests one free drink and two-hour access.

This nostalgic card served as my drink ticket.Bucket Listers

I hadn't seen a Blockbuster card in ages, but I learned that this card was my admission ticket. For $29, the Blockbuster card gives guests one free drink and two-hour access.

Bucket Listers sells tickets on its website, but select walk-ins are available at the door based on the bar's capacity.

Screenshot of Bucket Listers website.Bucket Listers

When I entered the building, I spotted signs advertising cocktails, beer, wine, frozen drinks, and combos above a display of videos. I knew then that it was going to be a good night.

Surveying my options at the Blockbuster pop-up bar.Bucket Listers

When I entered the building, I spotted signs advertising cocktails, beer, wine, frozen drinks, and combos above a display of videos. I knew then that it was going to be a good night.

I walked over to another wall of videos and discovered they were just decoration and not meant to be taken off the shelf.

Take a seat and enjoy a faux video or two.Danielle Bauter

But I loved the sign that greeted me as soon as I walked in the door. The slinkies, Rubik's Cubes, and lava lamps — callbacks to the '90s — on display were a nice touch.

Do as the sign says and "Make it a Blockbuster night."Danielle Bauter

But I loved the sign that greeted me as soon as I walked in the door. The slinkies, Rubik's Cubes, and lava lamps — callbacks to the '90s — on display were a nice touch.

Some display shelves were just decorations and had fake selections of drama, comedy, and horror videos, but I was more interested in the cocktails, and it was time to choose mine.

Shelves of drama, comedy, and horror flicks.Danielle Bauter

Some display shelves were just decorations and had fake selections of drama, comedy, and horror videos, but I was more interested in the cocktails, and it was time to choose mine.

As I approached the cocktail video shelf, I realized each drink was named after a popular movie, and the ingredients were listed at the bottom of each VHS case.

"Hocus Pocus," "The Big Lebowski," and "Pineapple Express" drink choices.Danielle Bauter

I was instructed to pick a video (drink), take it to the counter, and use my membership card to "check it out."

Cocktail options beckoning me from across the roomDanielle Bauter

My first option was "Titanic," a mix of Ketel One vodka, passionfruit, vanilla, lemon, and cava, which sells for $16.

The Titanic drink was tempting.Danielle Bauter

I could also choose "Pineapple Express," a blend of rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup, which sells for $15.

The Pineapple Express cocktail also sounded appealing.Danielle Bauter

Beer and wine options were also available, in video cases that showed a picture of the drink, and ranged in price from $8 to $15.

Beer and wine options on display.Danielle Bauter

One of the beer options, the Scrimshaw Pilsner, is from California's Mendocino coast and sells for $6.

North Coast Brewing Co's Scrimshaw Pilsner.Danielle Bauter

There were also nonalcoholic options, such as Crystal Pepsi for $30, Yoo-hoo for $5, and Orbitz for $30.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar's nonalcoholic options.Danielle Bauter

That's not a typo. The Crystal Pepsi and Orbitz are $30 because the drinks are discontinued and were ordered from a special service to add to the '90s nostalgia, Berry said.

Discontinued '90s drinks Orbitz and Crystal Pepsi.Danielle Bauter

That's not a typo. The Crystal Pepsi and Orbitz are $30 because the drinks are discontinued and were ordered from a special service to add to the '90s nostalgia, Berry said.

Once I made my decision, I "checked out" my drink at the bar by taking the tape and membership card to the bartender so she could make my selected cocktail.

Time to put that membership card to use.Danielle Bauter

I also noticed the "new releases" listed on the blackboard behind the bar. "The Matrix," "Pretty Woman," and "Avatar" were some of the cocktail options and ranged in price from $15 to $17.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar's "new releases."Danielle Bauter

I also noticed the "new releases" listed on the blackboard behind the bar. "The Matrix," "Pretty Woman," and "Avatar" were some of the cocktail options and ranged in price from $15 to $17.

The bar appeared to be well-stocked, with an array of hard liquor.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar's spirits selection.Danielle Bauter

After careful consideration, I chose the "Avatar" cocktail. Sheri, the bartender, was up for the challenge.

Sheri serves up the "Avatar" cocktail.Danielle Bauter

The Avatar has a blend of mezcal, agave, lime, blue curaçao, and pineapple garnished with a stick of dry ice and pop rocks. I loved this smoky concoction.

The "Avatar" cocktail is as good as it looks.Danielle Bauter

Sheri made other cocktails as well, and the drinks seemed to fit right in with the theme of the bar, which could best be described as tastefully retro. I admired the creativity in its presentation.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar's cocktail options.Danielle Bauter

Sheri made other cocktails as well, and the drinks seemed to fit right in with the theme of the bar, which could best be described as tastefully retro. I admired the creativity in its presentation.

Doubling back to the bar, I discovered a display of good old-fashioned candy choices that were $5 each. It was difficult to resist two of my favorites, Reese's Pieces and Hot Tamales.

A multitude of candy options to satisfy your sweet tooth.Danielle Bauter

Doubling back to the bar, I discovered a display of good old-fashioned candy choices that were $5 each. It was difficult to resist two of my favorites, Reese's Pieces and Hot Tamales.

I noticed more items that captured the Blockbuster theme in another room. Like many of the other props, I knew the video return box helmed by bean bags would quickly become an Instagrammer's dream.

The Blockbuster video return box is ready for its close-up.Danielle Bauter

I noticed more items that captured the Blockbuster theme in another room. Like many of the other props, I knew the video return box helmed by bean bags would quickly become an Instagrammer's dream.

And it didn't take long to prove my point as my girlfriend, Luna, decided to get in on the action.

Luna avoiding late fees at the Blockbuster pop-up bar.Danielle Bauter

I circled back to the bar for another "Avatar" and a $6 bucket of popcorn.

Combining cocktails with popcorn.Danielle Bauter

I also decided to check out the $10 to $18 food menu, which offered "Please Rewind" Truffle Fries, "Late Fee" Risotto Parmesan Cheese Balls, "New Release" Flatbread and Dips, "Y2K" Mini Pepperoni Pizza, "Blockbuster" Burger & Fries, and a Grown Up Lunchable.

The food menu at the Blockbuster pop-up barDanielle Bauter

I also decided to check out the $10 to $18 food menu, which offered "Please Rewind" Truffle Fries, "Late Fee" Risotto Parmesan Cheese Balls, "New Release" Flatbread and Dips, "Y2K" Mini Pepperoni Pizza, "Blockbuster" Burger & Fries, and a Grown Up Lunchable.

The Grown Up Lunchable is $18 and includes toasted bread, cheese, prosciutto, and a chocolate bar.

The Grown-Up Lunchable.Danielle Bauter

I ended up choosing the Blockbuster Burger accompanied with a side of tasty fries.

The Blockbuster Burger and Fries.Danielle Bauter

There were also sweets to select from, but I decided to quit while I was ahead.

S'mores pictured with the Grown-Up Lunchable.Danielle Bauter

The sweets menu includes more fun items, such as the Dunkaroo Ice Cream Sundae, Toast Your Own S'Mores, and Friday Night Rice Krispie Fudge Brownie for $12 to $14.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar sweets menu.Danielle Bauter

The outdoor patio was quite spacious, with plenty of seating.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar's outdoor patio.Danielle Bauter

And there were more Blockbuster-themed props, such as this oversized sign.

An oversized Blockbuster sign.Danielle Bauter

The outdoor menu board spelled out the nosh and sweet items.

The Blockbuster pop-up bar's treats are advertised outside, too.Danielle Bauter

Other colorful Blockbuster signs were propped in the outside dining area.

Colorful Blockbuster signage.Danielle Bauter

Even the restrooms featured nostalgic movie posters. I spotted two of my favorites, "Grease" and "Top Gun."

A movie collage in the bathroom.Danielle Bauter

Berry said that Bucket Listers is bringing a "Golden Girls" pop-up restaurant to New York City soon, and it's also partnered with Disney to create other new pop-ups.

More pop-ups are coming to cities like New York.Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

I think I'll lounge on the outdoor patio and enjoy its next venture that kicks off on December 10, the weekend brunch. For $55 guests will get admission, a brunch entree, and a throwback drink.

Manifesting a future brunch at the Blockbuster pop-up bar.Danielle Bauter

I think I'll lounge on the outdoor patio and enjoy its next venture that kicks off on December 10, the weekend brunch. For $55 guests will get admission, a brunch entree, and a throwback drink.

Overall, I loved the creativity involved with bringing this nostalgic experience to life and felt that it was reasonably priced. I could see myself returning to the Blockbuster pop-up bar before it leaves.

Toasting to my next visit.Danielle Bauter

Overall, I loved the creativity involved with bringing this nostalgic experience to life and felt that it was reasonably priced. I could see myself returning to the Blockbuster pop-up bar before it leaves.

I went to Starbucks' newest flagship store in the Empire State Building and had one of the best coffees I've ever tasted, but I probably won't be back

Cookies on the Business Insider India website

I visited LA's new Blockbuster pop-up bar and it was like stepping back into the '90s &mdash; see inside

On October 28, two entertainment companies, Bucket Listers and New Gold Empire, opened a Blockbuster-themed pop-up bar in Los Angeles.

Blockbuster was one of the most popular video-rental stores in the '90s and early 2000s.

At the height of its popularity in 2004, it had almost 9,100 locations nationwide, but eventually fell victim to the digital age and went bankrupt in 2010.

Only one Blockbuster video store remains in Bend, Oregon, and the owners license the Blockbuster trademark each year from Dish Network, which purchased the company for $320 million after its bankruptcy.

Bucket Listers also purchased a Blockbuster license. Derek Berry, the vice president of experiences, said he's always loved the nostalgia of the '90s and wanted to make the pop-up bar an actual Blockbuster experience.

When I heard about it, I thought it was such a cool idea and so timely with the popularity of the Blockbuster documentary and TV series on Netflix.

I attended the Blockbuster pop-up bar media preview, in advance of the LA opening. The pop-up is located on Melrose Avenue in the heart of the Fairfax District and will run through February 2023 or longer, depending on demand.

Walking up, I immediately noticed the emblematic yellow and blue adorning the exterior walls, along with matching chairs. If I didn't know any better, I would've thought I was approaching the video store itself.

I hadn't seen a Blockbuster card in ages, but I learned that this card was my admission ticket. For $29, the Blockbuster card gives guests one free drink and two-hour access.

Bucket Listers sells tickets on its website, but select walk-ins are available at the door based on the bar's capacity.

When I entered the building, I spotted signs advertising cocktails, beer, wine, frozen drinks, and combos above a display of videos. I knew then that it was going to be a good night.

I walked over to another wall of videos and discovered they were just decoration and not meant to be taken off the shelf.

But I loved the sign that greeted me as soon as I walked in the door. The slinkies, Rubik's Cubes, and lava lamps — callbacks to the '90s — on display were a nice touch.

Some display shelves were just decorations and had fake selections of drama, comedy, and horror videos, but I was more interested in the cocktails, and it was time to choose mine.

As I approached the cocktail video shelf, I realized each drink was named after a popular movie, and the ingredients were listed at the bottom of each VHS case.

I was instructed to pick a video (drink), take it to the counter, and use my membership card to "check it out."

My first option was "Titanic," a mix of Ketel One vodka, passionfruit, vanilla, lemon, and cava, which sells for $16.

I could also choose "Pineapple Express," a blend of rum, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup, which sells for $15.

Beer and wine options were also available, in video cases that showed a picture of the drink, and ranged in price from $8 to $15.

One of the beer options, the Scrimshaw Pilsner, is from California's Mendocino coast and sells for $6.

There were also nonalcoholic options, such as Crystal Pepsi for $30, Yoo-hoo for $5, and Orbitz for $30.

That's not a typo. The Crystal Pepsi and Orbitz are $30 because the drinks are discontinued and were ordered from a special service to add to the '90s nostalgia, Berry said.

Once I made my decision, I "checked out" my drink at the bar by taking the tape and membership card to the bartender so she could make my selected cocktail.

I also noticed the "new releases" listed on the blackboard behind the bar. "The Matrix," "Pretty Woman," and "Avatar" were some of the cocktail options and ranged in price from $15 to $17.

The bar appeared to be well-stocked, with an array of hard liquor.

After careful consideration, I chose the "Avatar" cocktail. Sheri, the bartender, was up for the challenge.

The Avatar has a blend of mezcal, agave, lime, blue curaçao, and pineapple garnished with a stick of dry ice and pop rocks. I loved this smoky concoction.

Sheri made other cocktails as well, and the drinks seemed to fit right in with the theme of the bar, which could best be described as tastefully retro. I admired the creativity in its presentation.

Doubling back to the bar, I discovered a display of good old-fashioned candy choices that were $5 each. It was difficult to resist two of my favorites, Reese's Pieces and Hot Tamales.

I noticed more items that captured the Blockbuster theme in another room. Like many of the other props, I knew the video return box helmed by bean bags would quickly become an Instagrammer's dream.

And it didn't take long to prove my point as my girlfriend, Luna, decided to get in on the action.

I circled back to the bar for another "Avatar" and a $6 bucket of popcorn.

I also decided to check out the $10 to $18 food menu, which offered "Please Rewind" Truffle Fries, "Late Fee" Risotto Parmesan Cheese Balls, "New Release" Flatbread and Dips, "Y2K" Mini Pepperoni Pizza, "Blockbuster" Burger & Fries, and a Grown Up Lunchable.

The Grown Up Lunchable is $18 and includes toasted bread, cheese, prosciutto, and a chocolate bar.

I ended up choosing the Blockbuster Burger accompanied with a side of tasty fries.

There were also sweets to select from, but I decided to quit while I was ahead.

The sweets menu includes more fun items, such as the Dunkaroo Ice Cream Sundae, Toast Your Own S'Mores, and Friday Night Rice Krispie Fudge Brownie for $12 to $14.

The outdoor patio was quite spacious, with plenty of seating.

And there were more Blockbuster-themed props, such as this oversized sign.

The outdoor menu board spelled out the nosh and sweet items.

Other colorful Blockbuster signs were propped in the outside dining area.

Even the restrooms featured nostalgic movie posters. I spotted two of my favorites, "Grease" and "Top Gun."

Berry said that Bucket Listers is bringing a "Golden Girls" pop-up restaurant to New York City soon, and it's also partnered with Disney to create other new pop-ups.

I think I'll lounge on the outdoor patio and enjoy its next venture that kicks off on December 10, the weekend brunch. For $55 guests will get admission, a brunch entree, and a throwback drink.

Overall, I loved the creativity involved with bringing this nostalgic experience to life and felt that it was reasonably priced. I could see myself returning to the Blockbuster pop-up bar before it leaves.

I visited LA's new Blockbuster pop-up bar and it was like stepping back into the '90s — see inside