The Immigrant Magazine. Resources for Immigrans in America.

The Immigrant Experience : Tales of the Transitions of Successful Immigrants

CATALINA BAR & GRILL,

"Nothing But The Best In Jazz"

Having a great time in a city as fast paced as Los Angeles is precious, and finding an environment that will give you that sense of calm and plenty of fun is a rare gem. While seeking such a treasure The Immigrant Magazine was thrilled to find one that lives up to its slogan Catalina Bar & Grill "Nothing But The Best In Jazz". Club owner Catalina Popescu is an immigrant from Bucharest who believes in the power of dreams and making them happen.
Catalina Bar and Grill features the best of Who's Who of jazz legends such as Dizzie Gillespie, Art Blakey, McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea, Ray Brown, Joe Williams, Max Roach, Carmen McRae, Betty Carter, Ron Carter, Joe Henderson, Benny Carter, Tony Williams, Joe Zawinul, Marcus Miller, Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Joshua Redman, Michael Brecker, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jimmy Scott and many more. Here is how it all began, truly a love story.

When did you come to America?
Catalina: I came from Bucharest E. Europe to be united to the love of my life and husband who was a Romanian immigrant living here in the USA.I arrived in 1975.

How did you create the most famous jazz club in Hollywood?

Catalina: My main hobby was food and I love being with people. After managing several restaurants I came up with the concept of creating an environment where people can relax and have fun. It was not an easy task but after lots of challenges Catalina Bar and Grill was born.

What is the inspiration behind the type of music played here?
Catalina: My vision was to have nothing but the best for my customers. I love jazz and decided to create an atmosphere where the jazz played here would be nothing but the best from all over the world, hence the eclectic feeling.

What did it take to come thus far?
Catalina: I never planned to be here and certainly never dreamt Catalina Bar and Grill would become what it is today. It has taken days and nights of hard work, frustrations and challenges. It takes a lot of effort, work and more importantly believing in what you want and not giving up on your dream. You can't let it go, you must hang in there and you must always remember that tomorrow will be another day. I believe this very firmly and that is why we are still here today. Tomorrow will be different!

What is your Message?
Catalina: My very important message to immigrants is first of all to be thankful just being here in this land of great opportunities. Hard work does pay off and will bring you plenty, not just money but happiness and a great feeling of satisfaction. You have your destiny in your hands and it is up to you to decide what you want to do.

What makes Catalina Bar & Grill special?
Catalina: We are the best in jazz, and we create a great eclectic atmosphere as well as good food, great shows and well-known performers. I get great satisfaction when my customers say to me "Oh my God what a wonderful experience", then I say to myself "Okay mission accomplished."

What is your mission?
Catalina: My mission is to bring people together, bridging the people of the world through music. Music is a universal language and year after year I have seen people meet here, start a family here and I am happy that I played Cupid. Being cupid is great.

catalinajazzclub.com

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