The Pawn Shop: A New Era for Hollywood Entertainment
The Pawn Shop, a groundbreaking new establishment, has officially launched in Hollywood, promising an unparalleled fusion of high-end dining and vibrant sports bar culture. Located at 5901 Melrose Ave. in a building that once housed Brothers Collateral Pawn Shop for over four decades, the venue aims to redefine the Los Angeles sports bar scene. Spearheaded by James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Messina, renowned for his sophisticated culinary approach, The Pawn Shop elevates the typical game-day grub with a menu that tantalizes the palate with dishes like pickle-brined fried chicken and caviar.
A Culinary Mastermind at the Helm
Chef Tony Messina, who garnered acclaim for his work at Uni in Boston and received the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast in 2019, brings his extensive fine-dining expertise to The Pawn Shop. His culinary vision for the establishment is to offer familiar bar food favorites, reimagined with exceptional quality and flavor. This philosophy is evident in signature items such as the Pan con Tomate ($18), an 8-piece bucket of fried chicken for $68 (or $110 for 16 pieces), and an Italian sub for $22. Messina’s background, which began with catering and cooking at age 14, has culminated in a venture that allows patrons to enjoy a fun night out with family or a date, blending the excitement of a sports bar with the sophistication of an upscale restaurant. The menu also features elevated twists on classics, including hot dogs with osetra caviar and Japanese mayonnaise, sticky pork spareribs, a dry-aged 40-ounce tomahawk, and charbroiled oysters with XO butter.
A Hub for Sports and Community
The Pawn Shop is more than just a restaurant; it’s designed to be a community hub and a premier destination for sports enthusiasts. With 53 screens strategically placed throughout the 7,808-square-foot venue, no seat is a bad seat for catching the latest games. The space, meticulously renovated from its 1930s art deco origins, features cathedral-height ceilings, original brick walls, and a bow truss ceiling structure. It offers a 48-seat bar, two massive video walls, and seven private mezzanine suites that provide an elevated viewing experience. This unique setup caters to various preferences, from the energetic main floor to the exclusive private suites, which can be booked for parties, fantasy drafts, or intimate gatherings, offering dedicated service and an enhanced menu.
Backed by Industry Titans
The ambitious venture is supported by a notable roster of investors from the sports and entertainment industries. These include billionaire Mark Cuban, former owner of the Dallas Mavericks; Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations for the Los Angeles Dodgers; television producer Michael Davies of “Jeopardy” and “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” fame; former Olympian and Angel City FC captain Ali Riley; and former NBA player Chandler Parsons. The concept was brought to life by entrepreneur and real estate developer Diego Torres-Palma of Ventana Ventures, who acquired the former Brothers Collateral pawn shop space in 2023 and envisioned it as a “culture hub” for Los Angeles. Torres-Palma’s prior experience includes developing Benny Boy Brewing. The establishment officially opened its doors on June 26, 2026, coinciding with major sporting events and preparations for future large-scale tournaments like the 2028 Olympics.
A Unique Location with a Rich History
The choice of location at 5901 Melrose Ave. is deeply intertwined with the establishment’s identity. The building served as Brothers Collateral Pawn Shop for over 40 years before closing in 2019. This history is honored in the venue’s name and design, which preserves elements of the original structure while infusing it with modern amenities. The space blends historical character, such as exposed brick and industrial elements, with contemporary design, including curved leather booths and state-of-the-art viewing technology. The Pawn Shop is operational seven days a week, with hours varying from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and extending to midnight on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with weekend hours starting at 10 a.m.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is the address of The Pawn Shop sports bar?
The Pawn Shop is located at 5901 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038.
Who is the chef behind The Pawn Shop’s menu?
The culinary program at The Pawn Shop is led by James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Messina, formerly of Uni in Boston.
What notable investors are backing The Pawn Shop?
Key investors include Mark Cuban, Andrew Friedman (Dodgers executive), Michael Davies, Ali Riley, and Chandler Parsons.
What kind of food can be expected at The Pawn Shop?
The menu features elevated versions of classic bar food, such as pickle-brined fried chicken, caviar hot dogs, Pan con Tomate, and charbroiled oysters.
When did The Pawn Shop open?
The Pawn Shop officially opened its doors on June 26, 2026.
