Permanent Records buys Cafe NELA, plans combo store/venue/bar

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Permanent Records owner Lance Barresi, left, with Cafe NELA's Dave Travis

The gritty Cypress Park venue Cafe NELA is getting a new owner and a makeover.

L.A.-based retailer and label Permanent Records today announced the purchase of the building at 1906 Cypress Ave. Permanent Records owner Lance Barresi plans to convert the space into a combination record store, music venue and bar.

“As of Oct. 1, we will have another new location, and this time it will be a record store/venue/bar,” Barresi said in a press release announcing the venture, which he said will be the first of its kind in L.A.

The name of the new venue has not yet been released.

Under the current owner of 6-plus years, Dave Travis, the venue has hosted more than 1,000 shows. “Dave has done a great service to the local music community, but the time has come for him to move on, and fortunately he’s chosen us as his successor,” Barresi said. “As great appreciators of Dave’s work, we’re excited for the opportunity to expand on what he started.”

Barresi plans to have the store open seven days a week, serving beer and snacks, and aims to expand the drink menu.

Permanent Records currently has locations in Highland Park and Echo Park.