Eighth & Rail: The Best Bar in Santa Clarita A Timeless Landmark in the Heart of Newhall
Written by: O. Martinez
Eighth & Rail isn’t just a bar; it’s a living landmark. In the heart of historic Newhall in Santa Clarita, California, this unassuming corner pub is a hidden gem that holds a legacy stretching back over a century. Known as the first establishment to receive a liquor license in Los Angeles County, Eighth & Rail embodies the enduring spirit of the Old West and the evolution of a community that helped shape Southern California.
Located in what was once the frontier of Los Angeles, Eighth & Rail has witnessed Newhall’s transformation from a rugged cowboy town to a cinematic backdrop and growing cultural enclave. Originally serving railroad workers, ranch hands, and weary travelers, the building's foundations are steeped in the grit and glamour of the West. Now, it’s a spot that keeps its old-school charm while bringing in all the good energy from the local crowd.
The bar’s walls have absorbed more than just decades of conversations; they've been part of Hollywood history. Eighth & Rail has served as a backdrop for a wide array of productions, both on television and in feature films. Shows such as S.W.A.T., Law and Order, 9-1-1: Lone Star, Camping, Good Trouble, Criminal Minds, Justified, NCIS, Reasonable Doubt, Shooter, The Afterparty, Cold Case, and Jericho have all used the location for key scenes. Additionally, feature films like Behind the Candelabra, Not Easily Broken, and Redline have filmed here. This extensive list of credits highlights Eighth & Rail’s appeal as an authentic, character-rich setting that captures drama, nostalgia, and cinematic depth. It’s a frequent stop for location scouts and filmmakers looking for an authentic backdrop with soul.
Yet, what truly sets Eighth & Rail apart is its soul, not just what’s on screen, but what happens every night within its walls. The bar remains a local institution, hosting live bands, karaoke nights, and DJ sets that bring together every corner of Santa Clarita’s diverse community. Its craft cocktail menu rivals that of any trendy urban bar, while still honoring the hidden gem-bar grit that made it beloved in the first place. From bourbon neat to locally inspired infusions, each drink reflects the care and culture behind the bar.
Bartenders know regulars by name. Travelers stumble in and find themselves staying for stories. Artists, musicians, filmmakers, and everyday folks sit side by side under the glow of antique fixtures and neon beer signs. Eighth & Rail isn’t just the best bar in Santa Clarita, it’s a cultural anchor.
As Santa Clarita continues to grow and change, Eighth & Rail stands still in the best way, anchored in its legacy, proud of its past, and vibrant in its present. It’s more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a piece of California history, poured straight, no chaser.