Hollywood, Los Angeles, pulsates with a vibrant nightlife scene, and a significant part of that energy comes from its diverse and exciting bars. From classic cocktail lounges to trendy rooftop bars offering stunning city views, Hollywood caters to every taste. This guide explores 19 of the best bars in Hollywood, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next night out.
Classic Hollywood Charm
1. The Spare Room: Sophisticated Sipping & Bowling
The Spare Room is not your average Hollywood bar. This upscale establishment combines a sophisticated cocktail lounge with a vintage bowling alley, creating a unique and memorable experience. The atmosphere is elegant, the cocktails are expertly crafted, and the bowling adds a touch of playful fun. It’s perfect for a date night or a group outing with friends looking for something a little different.
2. Musso & Frank Grill: A Hollywood Landmark
Musso & Frank Grill is a true Hollywood institution, having served legendary actors and filmmakers for nearly a century. The dimly lit interior, with its dark wood paneling and vintage booths, exudes old-world charm. While primarily a restaurant, its bar is a fantastic place to soak up the history and enjoy a classic cocktail. It's a must-visit for any film buff.
3. Cole's: French Dip History & Classic Cocktails
Cole's is another historic Hollywood landmark famous for inventing the French Dip sandwich. Beyond the culinary delights, Cole's boasts a classic bar with a lively atmosphere. It's a great spot for a casual drink and a bite to eat, offering a mix of locals and tourists.
Trendy & Upscale
4. Blind Barber: Speakeasy Vibes & Excellent Drinks
Blind Barber cleverly disguises itself as a traditional barbershop, adding to its speakeasy allure. Once inside, you'll discover a hidden bar serving expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish and intimate setting. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it a perfect choice for a date or a night out with friends.
5. The Highlight Room: Rooftop Views & Chic Atmosphere
Located atop Dream Hollywood, The Highlight Room offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and the city skyline. This rooftop bar is known for its chic ambiance, delicious cocktails, and lively atmosphere. It's the ideal place to enjoy a sunset cocktail or a celebratory night out.
6. Mama Shelter: Stylish Hotel Bar with a View
Mama Shelter's bar is a stylish and vibrant spot within the hotel of the same name. Its eclectic décor and lively atmosphere attract a diverse crowd. The bar offers a wide selection of cocktails and beers, along with a cool vibe that makes it a popular choice for a night out.
Dive Bars & Casual Spots
7. The Rainbow Bar & Grill: Rock 'n' Roll History
The Rainbow Bar & Grill is steeped in rock 'n' roll history, having hosted countless legendary musicians over the years. It's a classic dive bar with a gritty charm, attracting both seasoned rock fans and a younger crowd seeking a no-frills, rock-and-roll-infused experience.
8. Room 5: A Hidden Gem
Room 5 is a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind an unmarked door, adding to its mystery and appeal. The dimly lit interior, cozy atmosphere, and expertly crafted cocktails create a unique and intimate setting, perfect for a quiet night out.
Unique Experiences
9. Boardner's: Bowling & Cocktails Combined
Similar to The Spare Room, Boardner’s offers a unique combination of bowling and a stylish bar. The atmosphere is more casual than The Spare Room, making it a fun option for a group of friends looking for a night of bowling and drinks.
Exploring Diverse Flavors
10. La Cita: Latin American Vibes
La Cita offers a vibrant Latin American atmosphere with its colorful décor and lively music. Its extensive cocktail menu features unique and delicious drinks, creating a fun and energetic setting.
11. Gracias Madre: Organic & Vegan-Friendly
Gracias Madre provides a unique experience with its organic and vegan-friendly menu. While primarily a restaurant, its bar offers a great selection of cocktails and mocktails, suitable for those seeking a healthier, plant-based option.
Rooftop Oasis
12. Harriet's Rooftop Lounge: Hollywood Glamour
Harriet's Rooftop Lounge provides a sophisticated rooftop setting with stunning city views. The elegant atmosphere and carefully crafted cocktails create a glamorous experience perfect for special occasions.
Hidden Gems & Speakeasies
13. Whisky a Go Go: Live Music & History
Whisky a Go Go is a legendary rock club that's been a staple of Hollywood nightlife for decades. While primarily a music venue, its bar offers a lively atmosphere, and often features live performances.
14. The Dresden: Old-School Charm & Piano Bar
The Dresden is a classic old-school cocktail bar with a piano bar. The intimate setting, excellent cocktails, and live music create a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a romantic night out.
Beyond the Usual
15. The Abbey: Iconic Gay Bar
The Abbey is an iconic gay bar and a prominent part of Hollywood's LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. The bar boasts a welcoming atmosphere, a wide selection of drinks, and often hosts themed nights.
16. Bootleg Theatre: Unique and Artsy
Bootleg Theatre is a unique venue that combines a theater with a bar. The bar has a more relaxed, artsy atmosphere, and often hosts performances and events.
For the Beer Lover
17. Big Wangs: Chicken Wings and Beer
Big Wangs is a popular spot for delicious chicken wings and a wide selection of beers. The casual atmosphere makes it a perfect choice for a casual night out with friends.
A Touch of Class
18. No Vacancy: Vintage Hotel Bar
No Vacancy offers the charm of a vintage hotel bar with a sophisticated atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. Its old-world ambiance makes it ideal for a night of classic cocktails and conversation.
Something Different
19. Sassafras Saloon: Southern Comfort
Sassafras Saloon offers a unique Southern experience with its cozy atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and comfortable setting. It's a great option for those who are looking for something a bit different from the usual Hollywood bar scene.
This list offers a glimpse into the diversity of Hollywood's bar scene. Whether you're looking for a classic cocktail, a trendy rooftop experience, or a dive bar with a rich history, Hollywood has something to offer everyone. Remember to always drink responsibly and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the City of Angels!
