Digest

This episode delves into the experiences of Colby, a former bartender at the historic Pacific Dining Car in Los Angeles. He shares vivid anecdotes about the restaurant's unique 24-hour operation, its diverse clientele ranging from politicians and actors to drug dealers and NBA players, and its famous "baseball steak." Colby recounts memorable encounters with celebrities like Nicholas Cage, describing Cage's remarkable composure even when intoxicated, and Paul Walker, highlighting his generosity. The discussion also touches upon less pleasant celebrity interactions, the historical significance of the Pacific Dining Car, its eventual closure due to COVID-19 and family disputes, and other notable patrons like Tommy Lasorda and members of Cypress Hill. The episode kicks off a new series titled "Hollywood Tales," promising more stories from the entertainment industry.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction to Cut Betting Platform & Podcast Welcome

The podcast begins by introducing "Cut," a peer-to-peer betting platform, and welcoming listeners and guest Colby for an "SGP Stories" edition, noting the episode is ad-free thanks to patrons.

00:02:05

Personal Anecdotes and the Legendary Pacific Dining Car

Hosts share personal stories, including dealing with severe weather and a house fire. Colby introduces his time at the now-closed Pacific Dining Car, a historic LA establishment known for its 24-hour service, unique atmosphere, and diverse clientele.

00:06:21

Celebrity Encounters and Notable Clientele at Pacific Dining Car

Colby details his experiences at the Pacific Dining Car, including serving celebrities like John Travolta and Richard Petty, NBA players due to its proximity to the Staples Center, and even individuals involved in the OJ Simpson trial. He also mentions receiving complimentary tickets to events.

00:09:25

Bartending Service Styles and the Famous "Baseball Steak"

Colby contrasts the intimate service at the Pacific Dining Car with corporate bars. The discussion highlights the quality of service at older establishments and introduces the Pacific Dining Car's signature "baseball steak," explaining the origin of its name and its unique shape.

00:13:26

Closure of Pacific Dining Car and Nicholas Cage Stories

The podcast discusses the closure of the Pacific Dining Car due to COVID-19 and subsequent family disputes. Colby shares detailed stories about Nicholas Cage, focusing on his impressive drinking capacity and composure during a chaotic incident involving a chocolate souffle.

00:14:20

Colby's Career Transition and Celebrity Interactions

Colby recounts his bartending career in Los Angeles, including his time at the Beverly Hilton, and explains how a conflict there led him to the Pacific Dining Car, which he considered his best job. He further elaborates on Nicholas Cage's drinking habits and a specific incident.

00:24:03

The Coppola Family and Other Celebrity Anecdotes

The conversation touches upon Nicholas Cage's family ties to the Coppolas and mentions his brother, Christopher Coppola. Stories about Tommy Lasorda attempting to get a discount and encounters with members of Cypress Hill and a USC kicker are also shared, highlighting the bar's diverse patrons.

00:38:03

Celebrity Perceptions and Unpleasant Encounters

Colby reflects on how bartending changed his perceptions of celebrities like George Clooney and Paul Walker, whom he found to be genuine and generous. However, he also mentions celebrities like Bruce Willis, Ron Harper, and Kevin Garnett who were not pleasant to interact with.

00:41:38

Paul Walker's Generosity and Mysterious Circumstances

The discussion focuses on Paul Walker's extensive charitable work and a conspiracy theory surrounding it. Colby expresses skepticism about the circumstances of Walker's death, given his expertise, and shares further instances of his generosity, including buying drinks for entire restaurants.

00:47:11

Sports Figures and Legendary Clientele of Pacific Dining Car

Stories involving Wayne Gretzky and Jason Williams's legal troubles are briefly mentioned. Colby reflects on the Pacific Dining Car's legendary status, recalling its patrons like mayors, Jack Nicholson, and Bugsy Siegel, and discusses vintage menu prices.

00:50:34

Culinary Education and Pacific Dining Car's Legacy

Colby explains how working at the Pacific Dining Car provided him with a culinary education, allowing him to try various dishes. He notes the restaurant's menu variety and quality, mentioning a Santa Monica location that later closed. The episode concludes by celebrating the Pacific Dining Car and kicking off the "Hollywood Tales" series.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the Cut betting platform?

  Cut is a peer-to-peer betting platform that allows friends and strangers to bet directly against each other on the outcomes of sports, politics, pop culture, and more. It offers cash back on bets and is available in over 40 states.

• What was the Pacific Dining Car?

  The Pacific Dining Car was a historic, family-owned Los Angeles establishment that operated since 1920. It was known for its unique, time-capsule atmosphere, 24-hour service, diverse clientele including celebrities and politicians, and its famous "baseball steak."

• Can you describe Nicholas Cage's drinking habits as discussed in the podcast?

  Nicholas Cage is described as a "great drunk" and a "champ drinker." He could consume large amounts of alcohol, including wine, martinis, and shots, and still appear composed and functional, surprising those around him.

• What notable celebrities did Colby encounter while bartending at the Pacific Dining Car?

  Colby encountered numerous celebrities, including John Travolta, Richard Petty, Nicholas Cage, Johnny Depp, George Clooney, Paul Walker, members of Cypress Hill, and Tommy Lasorda, among others.

• What is the significance of the "baseball steak" at the Pacific Dining Car?

  The "baseball steak" is a thick, lean center-cut top sirloin that is rounded into a shape resembling a baseball when cooked. It was a signature dish at the Pacific Dining Car.

• Why did the Pacific Dining Car close?

  The Pacific Dining Car closed due to the impact of COVID-19, followed by family disputes over its ownership and management after the passing of the original owner.

• What was the incident involving Nicholas Cage and a chocolate souffle?

  During a night of heavy drinking, Nicholas Cage's companion threw a chocolate souffle at Colby after waking up from passing out. Cage remained unfazed and continued his conversation, showcasing his composure.

• Were there any unpleasant celebrity encounters mentioned?

  Yes, the podcast mentioned that Bruce Willis, Ron Harper, and Kevin Garnett were not considered nice human beings, despite their fame.

Show Notes