The vibe at this moody, windowless bar in the basement of the Gale South Beach is ’70s glam, South Beach-style: It’s got a velvet rope out front, a disco ball and a glass ceiling. The music programming is stacked with DJs Wednesday through Sunday, and mellower moments like live jazz and samba setting the stage in … Read more
What is it? An underground bar in the Arts District and the L.A. outpost of a famous NYC cocktail bar known for its use of rare spirits and high-quality ingredients. Why we love it: The chances of you, a mere mortal, walking into Death & Co without a reservation on a weekend are slim to none, but … Read more
What is it? An expansive, all-purpose informal Mid-Wilshire bar that’s great for large groups and pet owners. Why we love it: Housed in the historic Firestone tire station on La Brea, All Season Brewing hits the mark in terms of ambience, convenience and quality drink offerings. Beer lovers flock here for All Season’s extensive list of brews, … Read more
What is it? Dollar for dollar, the best tiki bar in L.A. County—and one of the most destination-worthy bars in Long Beach. Why we love it: The city of L.A. has its fair share of tiki bars, but it doesn’t have anything as downright chill as this prime tiki joint down in Long Beach. Home to killer … Read more
What is it? An ornate cocktail bar in Downtown’s Historic Core serving unusually delicious cocktails and one of the city’s best burgers. Why we love it: Stepping into the Wolves is like a trip to the early 20th century. Antique lamps, sconces and art dot the space, while an old train station’s stained glass arches make up … Read more
What is it? A groovy Arts District cocktail lounge from the team behind De La Nonna next door. Why we love it: The nostalgia cycle has come for the ’70s—and the Let’s Go is right on the money with tasty, deftly made house drinks and DJs spinning a groove-worthy mix that might bounce from lo-fi hip-hop to … Read more
What is it? A new-school watering hole in Eagle Rock known for its affordable, craft-inclined selection of craft beer, wine and cider. Why we love it: What happens when a dive meets pinball meets meticulous throwback touches and hot dogs to match? You get Walt’s, which serves locally made beer and cider, plus natural wine and eternal … Read more
What is it? An ultra-trendy, picturesque aperitivo bar in Eagle Rock with an extensive amaro selection and a killer Negroni. Why we love it: The retro Italian American charm might be slightly contrived, but the atmosphere of la dolce vita is wholly genuine at Capri Club. Unlike most L.A. watering holes, this intimate bar sits at the … Read more
What is it? A Prohibition-themed cocktail bar on Melrose Avenue known for affordable, well-balanced drinks and excellent atmosphere. Why we love it: The antique decor might seem passé by today’s standards, but the great cocktails, fairly affordable prices and date night-friendly ambience have helped make Melrose Umbrella Co. a reliable mainstay within L.A.’s generally fickle bar and … Read more
What is it? The quintessential Koreatown drinking spot, known for its dim lighting, wood panel interiors and delicious anju, or Korean drinking snacks. Why we love it: The food’s delicious, affordable and available until 2am, but the real reason why so many Angelenos head to Dan Sung Sa are the impeccable vibes and cheap drinks. Stepping through … Read more