Los Angeles, the City of Angels, boasts a nightlife scene as diverse and dazzling as its landscape. From hidden speakeasies to rooftop bars with panoramic city views, LA offers a bar for every taste and mood. This guide dives deep into 26 of the best bars in Los Angeles, categorized for easier navigation. Finding the perfect spot for your next night out just got easier!
Upscale & Stylish Bars: Where Elegance Meets Cocktails
These bars offer a sophisticated ambiance, expertly crafted cocktails, and a refined atmosphere.
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The NoMad Bar: Located in the NoMad Hotel, this bar exudes old-world charm with its plush velvet seating and meticulously prepared drinks. Their extensive cocktail menu features classics and innovative creations. Expect a higher price point reflecting the quality and experience.
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Blind Barber: This cleverly disguised speakeasy combines a vintage barbershop facade with a hidden, stylish bar. The atmosphere is intimate and the cocktails are expertly mixed. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
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The Walker: This stylish bar in the Arts District offers a sophisticated ambiance with a focus on artisanal spirits and creative cocktails. The dimly lit space, coupled with its curated music selection, creates an atmosphere of relaxed elegance.
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The Spare Room: This upscale bowling alley and bar within The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel provides a unique and luxurious experience. Enjoy a game of bowling while sipping on handcrafted cocktails and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
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The Normandie Club: Situated in Koreatown, this stylish bar offers a sophisticated setting with a menu featuring inventive cocktails and small plates. The dark wood interiors and dim lighting create a romantic and intimate vibe.
Lively & Vibrant Bars: For a Night of Fun and Energy
These bars are perfect for those seeking a bustling atmosphere, great music, and a lively crowd.
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The Exchange LA: This downtown LA bar features a large outdoor patio and a lively atmosphere. Known for its creative cocktails and fun events, it's a go-to spot for a memorable night out.
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Mama Shelter: This trendy hotel bar offers a vibrant atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and a rooftop terrace with stunning city views. Expect a diverse crowd and a high-energy vibe.
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Everson Royce Bar (ERB): A popular spot in the Arts District, ERB is known for its eclectic atmosphere, strong cocktails, and lively crowd. Its outdoor patio is a great place to people-watch.
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Gracias Madre: This organic Mexican restaurant and bar boasts a lively, vibrant atmosphere with a focus on organic ingredients and tequila-based cocktails.
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The Abbey: A long-standing West Hollywood institution, The Abbey is a popular gay bar with a lively atmosphere, great DJs, and a wide variety of drinks.
Dive Bars & Hidden Gems: Unpretentious and Authentic
These bars offer a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, often with a focus on classic cocktails and a loyal local following.
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Cole's: A historic Los Angeles institution, Cole's is known for its classic French dip sandwiches and its no-frills atmosphere. It's a true dive bar experience.
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The Varnish: Hidden behind a seemingly ordinary restaurant, The Varnish is a speakeasy-style bar with a focus on classic cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere. Reservations are a must.
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Big Bar: This unassuming bar in the Arts District features a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, and a laid-back ambiance.
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Harlowe: This sophisticated but unpretentious bar offers a wide selection of drinks and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a casual night out.
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Good Times at Davey Wayne's: This retro-themed bar is a fun and lively spot with classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Rooftop Bars: Stunning Views and City Lights
For breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline, these rooftop bars are unbeatable.
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Perch: Located in Downtown LA, Perch offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its rooftop location. The atmosphere is sophisticated and the drinks are delicious.
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EP & LP: This rooftop bar and restaurant offers a stylish setting, delicious food, and stunning city views. It's a perfect spot for a romantic night out.
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The Highlight Room: Situated atop Dream Hollywood, this rooftop bar boasts breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills and a chic atmosphere.
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Harriet's Rooftop Lounge: Located at The Line LA, this rooftop bar offers a vibrant atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and stunning city views.
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Spire 73: Boasting the title of the highest open-air rooftop bar in the Western Hemisphere, Spire 73 offers unparalleled views and a sophisticated setting.
Unique & Thematic Bars: Stepping Outside the Ordinary
These bars offer a unique experience beyond the typical bar setting.
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Angel City Brewery: This popular brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers in a spacious, industrial-chic setting.
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The Edison: This beautifully restored power plant turned bar and restaurant offers a unique and atmospheric setting with a mix of vintage and modern design.
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Honeycut: This intimate speakeasy-style bar offers a carefully curated cocktail menu and a sophisticated atmosphere.
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Broken Shaker: This award-winning bar offers a vibrant atmosphere, creative cocktails, and a fun, lively crowd.
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La Cita Bar: This quirky and unique bar features a lively atmosphere, eclectic decor, and a fun, friendly crowd.
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Delilah: This stylish and sophisticated bar offers a chic atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and a glamorous vibe. It's a popular spot for celebrities.
This list provides a comprehensive overview of some of the best bars in Los Angeles, catering to diverse preferences. Remember to check websites for hours, dress codes, and reservation policies before heading out for your perfect LA bar experience. Cheers!
