Top Bars in Los Angeles – Most Viewed (2025)

Thirsty Crow is a beloved whiskey bar tucked on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles’s Silver Lake / Echo Park fringe. It’s run by the 1933 Group, known for thoughtfully designed nightlife spots around LA. Entering Thirsty Crow, you’re greeted by a dark wood-panel interior, vintage lighting, and a horseshoe-shaped marble bar that immediately sets the tone for a serious drinker’s haven. Behind the bar, a curated selection of over 100 whiskeys, including 60+ small batch bourbons, is proudly displayed—this is their domain. Cocktails are executed with care, leaning on classics like Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Sazerac, and seasonal twists when available. Thirsty Crow maintains a balance of old-world saloon energy and modern LA bar sensibility. You’ll often hear vinyl spinning, soft live music, or curated DJ sets—never overpowering, but enough to elevate the mood. The vibe is intimate: dark corners, snug booths, and warm lighting. It feels like a bar that invites you to wander, linger, and explore the back corners. Many locals call it a “neighborhood watering hole for whiskey lovers.” While not primarily a food bar, you’ll often find light snacks or small bites to pair. The real draw is the drinks, the ambience, and the hidden charm. Happy hour deals are also part of its appeal, helping add accessibility to an otherwise refined setting. Overall, Thirsty Crow is ideal for whiskey aficionados, cocktail seekers, couples or small groups seeking character, and anyone who values atmosphere over spectacle.

Tucked behind the façade of normalcy at 1356 Palmetto Street in L.A.’s Arts District lies The Obscure—a cocktail experience like no other. Guests enter through a hidden entrance, checked in at a neighboring café before being transported into a dim, candlelit realm of ancient ruins, lava-lined walls, and ethereal waterfalls. Once inside, the bar’s dramatic design unfolds: flickering lanterns, moss-covered stones, crystalline formations, and cascading reeds create an atmosphere where magic feels tangible. Stories come alive as mixologists present six curated libations—three bespoke spirits distilled in-house and three imaginative cocktails—each paired with its own narrative steeped in myth and lore. The experience is intimate and theatrical, blending immersive storytelling with high-caliber mixology in a way that defies the typical bar outing. Guests are encouraged to don all-black attire as they embark on a two-hour tasting ritual filled with sensory pleasure, whimsy, and a sense of travel to another world. Patrons and journalists alike rave: “Harry Potter-style speakeasy,” “mixology meets storytelling,” and “magical realm … candles, stories, spirits.” It’s described as immersive, emotional, and wholly unique.

Nestled at 6377 Hollywood Blvd in the heart of Tinseltown, Scum & Villainy Cantina is a permanent sci‑fi fantasy bar born from a 2016 pop-up concept. Designed as your "friendly neighborhood geek bar," this immersive, windowless space transports you into an intergalactic hive of scum, villains, Jedi, bounty hunters, and cosplayers. Patrons are invited to dress up freely—costumes and props encouraged (but no full masks or projectiles!). Inside, glowing starship-like interiors, Rancor heads, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter easter eggs, and themed decor create a mashup multiverse experience. The cocktail menu is as creative as the setting: sip on Wretched Blue Milk, Green Milk, Mind Trick (tequila-based), and the fizzy Asteroid Field that even pops like cosmic fireworks. Drinks generally run $9–16, and the space is free to enter except for ticketed events like podcasts or screenings . Scum & Villainy keeps things lively: trivia nights, karaoke, themed gatherings, Twitch meetups, and even guest appearances by Kevin Smith and "Star Wars" actors. It’s all-ages until evening (minors welcome before ~8 pm), ADA accessible, and inclusive—a true #ScifiSafeHouse for fans and curious newcomers alike. Whether you're geeking out solo or bringing a full crew of Rebel, Jedi, or Hogwarts cosplayers, Scum & Villainy Cantina is LA’s go-to galaxy‑spanning escape.

Nestled on the Sunset Boulevard edge of Los Feliz and Silver Lake, Tiki‑Ti is a tropical relic—tiny yet mighty, boasting just a dozen barstools and a legacy that feels carved in wood and rum. Founded on April 28, 1961 by Ray Buhen, a former bartender at Don the Beachcomber and other Polynesian venues, Tiki‑Ti inhabits what was once a violin repair shop belonging to his father‑in‑law. Step inside, and you're swallowed by nostalgia: glowing pufferfish lamps, signed placards from loyal regulars covering every angle, fishing floats, tchotchkes, tiki masks, and even a robotic bull that parades along the bar—cheered on by delighted patrons. Run today by Buhen’s descendants—Mike Sr., Mike Jr., and Mark—the bar still pours classic tiki drinks using original secret recipes, with more than 80–90 cocktails on the menu, none of which come with ingredient lists. It's a place of rituals: order a Blood and Sand and the room shouts “Toro, Toro, Toro!” as tequila flows; ask for an Uga Booga, and patrons chant “ooga booga” while it's made. Tiki‑Ti doesn’t serve martinis, cosmopolitans, or beer (except “the last beer,” a tongue‑in‑cheek one‑off relic). Wednesdays hold special charm: “Ray’s Mistake” is discounted, and Mike Sr. leads a toast to his father, Ray Buhen. Despite its size, lines frequently snake outside—both for the strong pours and the atmosphere that feels like stepping into tiki’s golden age. A kitsch‑meets‑ritual institution, Tiki‑Ti feels simultaneously dive‑bar cozy, historically rich, and forever festive.

Nestled in the mezzanine of The LINE Hotel in Koreatown, Break Room 86 is a stylish speakeasy that pays homage to 1980s pop culture. Its unmarked entrance off Ardmore Ave channels the thrill of a secret club. Inside, expect bold retro visuals—walls lined with cassette tapes, lockers straight out of The Breakfast Club, and a vintage TV collage blasting Saturday-morning cartoons and iconic 80s clips. The venue features classic arcade machines, a boombox‑built DJ booth, and a nostalgic Pepsi‑machine‑door leading to private karaoke rooms. Dance breaks with surprise performances—like breakdancers or Michael Jackson impersonators—keep energy levels high. The cocktail menu, crafted by Houston Hospitality beverage director Joe Swifka, revisits childhood flavours in adult‑savvy form. Try the layered “Rock‑It Pop,” tiki‑style Dr. J!, or the refreshing Ecto Cooler—all around $14—or grab a nostalgic “Lunch Box” snack pack with Hot Pockets or Reese’s Pieces. Debuting late night with hours Tuesday–Saturday 9 PM to 2 AM, Break Room 86 attracts a fashionable crowd in their 20s‑30s, ready to sing, dance, and reminisce with vintage vibes and crafted cocktails. Dress casual‑cool and prepare for an entertaining trip back to the 80s.

Stepping into No Vacancy is like stepping back into old Hollywood glam—only spiced up. Located in a restored Victorian house at 1727 N Hudson Ave in Hollywood, the venue combines vintage charm, theatrical performance, and sleek cocktail culture. From plush red velvet seating to dark wood paneling and décor that recalls the Prohibition era, there’s a sense of mystery and elegance in every corner. Live music, burlesque acts, tightrope walkers, and an outdoor garden-courtyard with baroque fireplaces add layers of spectacle. The entrance is discreet, often via gate or a less obvious door, maintaining the speakeasy allure. The vibe is upscale but relaxed—people dress smart (avoid loud colors, shiny sportswear, hats etc.), and the staff at the door ensure the tone is preserved. It’s a place for evenings that blend cocktails & performance, for groups wanting something more theatrical than a regular bar, or for dates when you want to impress. The late hours (8 pm-2 am on peak nights) make it ideal for post-dinner drinks & a show. Reservations are possible for tables.

Perched on the mezzanine of the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, The Spare Room is less a bar and more a living stage for old-world glamour. Step inside and you’re transported to a cinematic lounge where velvet banquettes, vintage bowling lanes, and candlelit tables set the tone for an evening that blends playful nostalgia with Hollywood sophistication. The heart of the room is its pair of gleaming 1930s bowling lanes, restored to perfection and available by reservation. Around them, an eclectic mix of antique board games and handcrafted furniture invite guests to slow down and engage in the kind of analog fun that feels rare in Los Angeles nightlife. It’s a place to sip, lounge, laugh, and compete in style. The drinks match the atmosphere: polished, inventive, and meant to be savored. Expect a rotating cocktail list with both punch-bowl presentations for groups and elegant single pours that reinterpret classics with a modern twist. Bartenders here are storytellers—shaping drinks with as much attention to detail as the space itself. Music completes the scene. On some nights, DJs or live performers fill the air with curated sets that keep the vibe elevated without drowning conversation. The crowd is as stylish as the décor: locals in the know, hotel guests chasing a true Hollywood experience, and groups looking to do something memorable beyond the typical night out. The Spare Room isn’t just a bar—it’s an evening crafted to linger in memory. Whether you’re bowling under chandeliers, swapping stories over chess, or sipping something beautiful in an atmosphere dripping with vintage allure, this hidden gem embodies the glamour and eccentricity of Los Angeles nightlife at its best.

EightyTwo (stylized as EightyTwo LA) is a hybrid arcade bar, lounge, and nightlife hub tucked into the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles. It’s 21+ only, delivering a polished yet playful vibe where nostalgia meets mixology. The venue houses over 55 vintage pinball and arcade machines, rotated periodically to keep the game selection fresh and intriguing. Alongside that, the bar offers 10 draft beers, seasonal craft cocktails, seltzers, wine, and more—bridging the gap between casual hangout and cocktail destination. Spatially, it’s more than just indoor arcade halls. There’s a 3000-sq ft outdoor green patio where guests can relax, sip, and mingle when they want a break from the machines or the dance floor. Inside, there’s a listening bar and a DJ booth that fuels the nightlife energy. EightyTwo often programs DJ nights, live music sets, and occasional arcade or pinball competitions to engage enthusiasts. The bar also operates on a no-cover, first-come first-served basis (reservations are not accepted) — though on weekend evenings lines may form. The ambiance leans toward polished industrial chic — exposed brick, ambient lighting, hints of retro gaming art, and carefully curated music. It’s not a dive bar by any stretch, but it also doesn’t feel overly pretentious. It strikes a balance: welcoming to casual visitors, but with enough depth for arcade fans and cocktail lovers alike. One of its strong points is how it integrates multiple forms of entertainment: you can start with a few games, drift into cocktails, enjoy the patio, dance briefly if you feel it, and generally stay for the experience rather than just one thing. From reviews, the crowd tends to be hip, social, and open to mingling. Some reviewers do warn that during peak times, popular games’ queues can get long and drink service may slow. In sum: EightyTwo is an adult-oriented, retro arcade bar with serious cocktail credentials and a social, music-infused atmosphere — a go-to spot when you want more than just a drink.

In the shadowed streets of East Chinatown, Apothéke Los Angeles offers a dramatic retreat into a world of botanical intrigue and craft cocktail sorcery. Designed with cinematic flair, it evokes the feeling of wandering into a vintage European apothecary crossed with a clandestine speakeasy. The building — once a pigeon coop, later abandoned — has been transformed by designer/owner Christopher Tierney into a sensual, moody space where every detail delights. The glowing marble bar, reclaimed wood accents, gilded beams, encaustic tile inlays, and burnished-plaster walls create layers of visual depth. Stylish banquettes, plush seating nooks, and theatrical lighting guide your gaze across glass vials, herb displays, and framed botanical sketches. The cocktail experience is the star. Apothéke positions itself not merely as a bar, but as a “cocktail apothecary” — a place where drinks are treated as elixirs, carefully composed with herbs, botanicals, seasonal produce, house-infused syrups, tinctures, and custom blends. Their menu often reads like a compendium of potions — think names like Dizzy Intellect, Angelino’s Way, and surprising flavor alliances. Because of its design and prestige, Apothéke also offers a rooftop and penthouse extension (seasonally or by reservation) that expands the experience with elevated views, open-air ambiance, and a continuation of the bar’s signature style. Walk-ins may be accepted, but reservation is strongly recommended. The entrance and dress code reflect the intention: “sophisticated attire encouraged,” and admissions may be at the discretion of the host. Apothéke isn’t just a bar — it aspires to be an immersive experience, treating drinkers as connoisseurs stepping into a crafted world of flavor, ambiance, and botanical storytelling.

Blind Barber in Culver City is much more than your average haircut stop—it's a transformation destination. By day, the front is a bright, sleek barbershop offering cuts, shaves, and trims in a crisp, clean setting. But after hours, that façade becomes your gateway to a Prohibition‑inspired speakeasy tucked behind a nondescript door. Step into a dimly lit hideaway where old‑wood paneling and fading wallpaper create vintage charm, while leather booths and ample seating invite lounging and conversation. Regulars gather around the bar for seasonal cocktails—and with local DJs, dating events, and nightly happy hours from 6 to 7 pm offering discounted drinks, it’s always buzzing with energy. This is the West Coast flagship of a concept that started in NYC. The space pairs retro aesthetics with modern comfort and community—it’s where grooming meets nightlife. Whether you're there for the PERFECT haircut, a clever cocktail, or just the vibe of stepping into a secret lounge behind a barber chair, Blind Barber delivers in style.

Situated beneath the Stones Throw Records office in Highland Park, Gold Line delivers a captivating blend of music culture and refined cocktail craft. Conceived by Chris "Peanut Butter Wolf" Manak, the space is crafted as a homage to Japanese hi-fi listening bars: intimate, moody, and vinyl‑obsessed. Upon entering, you’re met with an impressive wall of over 7,500 records—curated by Wolf himself—framed behind a rich walnut bar that anchors the stylish, laid‑back ambiance. The bar's aesthetic—dim pendant lighting, exposed brick, and lounge seating—feels both nostalgic and chic. Gold Line specializes in sophisticated simplicity: highballs and three‑ingredient cocktail classics alongside rare whiskeys, mezcal, natural wines, and craft concoctions. On weekday nights, bartenders curate ambient soundscapes via the in‑house vinyl collection. Weekends ramp up the energy with guest DJs spinning exclusively from the bar’s record vault. It's exactly the kind of place where music lovers, record collectors, and cocktail aficionados collide. Drink-wise, expect thoughtful, balanced cocktails that complement—not overshadow—the music-forward experience. Gold Line isn't just another bar—it’s a sensory journey through sound and spirit, rendered with authenticity and heart.

Night on Earth, nestled in the Cahuenga Pass between Hollywood and Studio City, is the electrifying offspring of Thunderbolt (LA’s #8 bar in North America). A strip‑mall exterior conceals a bold, neon‑drenched interior reminiscent of Blade Runner—blue and magenta tones, leather banquettes, recycled‑plastic Formica bar, retro vending machine snacks and disposable cameras. Its cocktail menu reinvents classic party drinks with technical precision—think clarified, carbonated “Bad Influencer” Pornstar Martini, Space Crush Midori Sour with real melon, and Reanimator Zombie. Drinks are served cold (~16°F), minimizing ice and dilution. Prices hover around $13–19 per cocktail. The vibe: come‑as‑you‑are, friendly bartenders offering tips or samples, pulsing electronica even mid‑week, and DJs lighting up the weekend crowd. Though it doesn’t serve food, the vintage vending machine or nearby pizza joints have you covered. In short, Night on Earth delivers a “space‑age cocktail party” experience—creative, warm, wildly fun, and unapologetically LA.

Tucked into the heart of historic Chinatown, General Lee’s is a cocktail lounge that thrives on contrasts: classical and contemporary, refined and playful, intimate lounge and dance-floor energy. The aesthetic leans on East Asian influences, apothecary motifs, and moody lighting, lending the place a cinematic, slightly mysterious atmosphere. The space is multi-level. The ground floor often pulses with DJ sets, energetic rhythms, and a more clublike pulse. Upstairs, the mood relaxes: soft couches, warm lights, and live jazz or lounge music can dominate. Cocktails here lean inventive — expect ingredients like reishi mushrooms, house tinctures, oolong infusions, Sichuan pepper, and nuanced syrups to enrich classics into something unexpected. On select nights, they’ve even done pop-ups: for example, the “Bamboo Room” tiki takeover, where they reimagine the space with tropical cocktails and a more festive tone. The venue also plays with theme nights — live music, DJ sets, and special cocktail events appear periodically. Overall, General Lee’s positions itself as more than just a bar — it’s a nightlife destination that blurs the lines between lounge, club, and cocktail sanctuary. It appeals to those who want both the craft and the energy, the conversation and the beat.

Nestled at the crossroads of Historic Filipinotown, Echo Park, and Downtown Los Angeles, Thunderbolt is a neighborhood cocktail bar that seamlessly blends Southern hospitality with cutting-edge mixology. Founded by Atlanta native Mike Capoferri, the bar draws inspiration from the American South, evident in both its warm ambiance and its menu offerings. Thunderbolt's beverage program is renowned for its innovative techniques, utilizing technology to enhance flavor and consistency. Cocktails are often pre-batched and stored at optimal temperatures, allowing for swift service without compromising quality. Signature drinks like the "Liquid Picnic"—a gin-based cocktail with tomato water and rosemary—exemplify the bar's creative approach. The bar also offers a selection of canned cocktails, prepared on-site, providing patrons with unique, portable options . Complementing the drink menu is a range of Southern-inspired dishes, including buttermilk biscuits and pimento cheese poppers.​ Thunderbolt's interior features a terrazzo bar, leather seating, and green accents, creating a cozy yet modern atmosphere. The establishment prides itself on inclusivity, aiming to be a welcoming space for all guests.​

La Descarga, tucked into an unassuming East Hollywood building, is the flagship Cuban‑themed speakeasy from Houston Hospitality (Piano Bar, Good Times…). No signage, no neon—just a dim stairwell and a message: climb those stairs, pass the dusty armoire, and emerge into a lavish, clandestine replica of 1940s Havana. Inside, wrought‑iron spiral staircases lead to mezzanine balconies where live Latin jazz bands serenade an enthusiastic crowd, and burlesque dancers steal the show on weekends . The decor is drenched in warm amber tones—chandeliers, leather booths, candlelit tables—creating an intimate, sultry ambiance. The drink menu is a rum lover’s dream. Mojitos, daiquiris, and innovative rum Old Fashioneds—alongside over 60 rum varieties—are served with theatrical flair. The secret cigar lounge in the back offers premium Cuban cigars and recommendations from expert bartenders. Dress to impress—collared shirts for men, cocktail dresses or heels for women—and reservations are essential, especially on Thursday–Saturday nights for salsa, burlesque, and dancing. La Descarga delivers a fully immersive experience: live salsa lessons, vibrant Latin dance energy, and a glamorous prohibition-era vibe, wrapped in secret‑club mystique.

Zero Lounge, nestled at 1710 N Hudson Ave in Hollywood, is a pop‑culture playground designed for millennials chasing that late‑90s/early‑2000s nostalgia fix. From its vaporwave interiors and neon purple glow to decor like posters of The Matrix, vintage iBook laptops, and flip phones, the vibe is immersive and whimsically nostalgic. Founder Kevin De Nicolo envisioned a place where the digital generation could rediscover a sense of connection—an antidote to doom‑scrolling culture. He teamed up with FTB.DESIGN to craft a space that balances retro charm with futuristic design. The cocktail menu, curated by expert mixologist Katie DiMento, features playful drinks like the Spice Girl Sour, Afterschool PB&J, Tamagotchi Tea, Limewire, and Nokia Nectar. Plus, there are vibrant mocktails, ensuring all guests can partake. Expect more than just drinks—Zero Lounge brings trivia nights, karaoke, DJ sets, and themed events (think Shrek or Twilight) into the mix, elevating the bar into an experience hub. With its design celebrating early internet era nostalgia, retro media, and Y2K culture, Zero Lounge offers an escape into a playful, social, and visually striking world—perfect for forging new memories spiked with old‑school vibes.

Located at 641 N Western Ave, Los Angeles (Melrose Hill) in the heart of the city’s evolving dining & nightlife district, Bar 109 offers a sleek cocktail-lounge experience with laid-back neighbourhood charm. The venue is the precursor to the forthcoming tasting-menu restaurant Corridor 109, and serves as a “casual” but refined front bar concept under chef/owner Brian Baik. Bartender Kayla Garcia (of renowned bars such as Kumiko in Chicago) curates a cocktail programme that blends precision and creativity. Inside, the design is minimalist yet warm: dark tones, a striking Forest-Gold marble bar counter, and large windows looking out toward Western Ave. The atmosphere leans toward polished intimacy—ideal for date nights, small groups or discerning drinkers seeking quality without pretense. Cocktail highlights include the “Marine Layer” (gin, manzanilla sherry, vermouth, kelp-infused saline) and the “Ichigo Punch” (vodka/mezcal, strawberry, basil, clarified milk, sake) among others. Food-wise, the bar features elevated bites: wagyu hot-dog, fried rockfish sandwich, shrimp cocktail suggest the kitchen reflects fine-dining pedigree in a more informal format. Open Tuesday through Saturday from ~6 pm to midnight, Bar 109 is intended as a stop for cocktails and bites—walk-ins only, no formal reservations.

Good Times at Davey Wayne’s is a themed cocktail bar nestled in the heart of Hollywood that turns a night out into an immersive 1970s house-party experience. The entrance itself is a show-stopper: you browse a faux garage sale full of kitsch before stepping through a refrigerator door into the interior space—equal parts lounge, backyard and time capsule. Inside, the décor is unapologetically 70s: tufted sofas, shag carpets, lava lamps, retro beer cans and even lawn-style Astroturf in the backyard area. The venue features a hammock zone, Airstream trailer bar that serves boozy snow cones, and a BBQ-style outdoor yard. The vibe shifts from lounge in the early evening to full on party after dark—with DJs, dancing and a swinging throwback soundtrack featuring Led Zeppelin, Earth Wind & Fire and other era anthems. Drink-wise, cocktails lean into playful nostalgia: signature drinks like Some People Call Me Maurice (a mezcal/Grasshopper mash-up) or Regal Beagle (rum, sherry, lime, pistachio) pay homage to classic flavour profiles with a twist. The menu also features beers on tap and snacks like grilled cheese, chili dogs and backyard BBQ fare in the outdoor section. The locale is fun for both first-time visitors and locals: given the nostalgia-driven design, the secret entrance and the lively backyard area, it’s ideal for date nights, group meet-ups, birthday celebrations or simply a standout night in Los Angeles. The dress code is comfortable California casual (no athletic wear or sandals after dark).

The Roger Room is a cocktail destination situated at 370 N La Cienega Blvd in Los Angeles, CA 90048, in the glamorous West Hollywood/Beverly Grove neighborhood. Created by nightlife veterans Jared Meisler and Sean MacPherson (who helped shape the modern L.A. craft-bar scene) the venue channels vintage 1920s speakeasy aesthetics with a club edge. Inside, expect moody lighting, plush but biting décor, intimate seating and a strong focus on cocktails. Reviews highlight that the bartenders are serious about their craft — freshly squeezed juices, house-infused spirits, imaginative twists on classics. One reviewer noted: “the cocktails are superb.” The drink menu features creative offerings like the Tijuana Brass (a twist on the Tommy’s Margarita topped with cucumber meringue), and the Old Sport (gin with black-tea-infused lychee liqueur) among others. The setting blends lounge and nightlife: it opens mid-evening and carries on into the night, making it suitable for pre-show drinks, a date night, or wandering into relaxed party mode. The Roger Room is praised as a place where quality, ambiance and service converge — it’s not a rowdy club but an elevated cocktail experience with edge. The vibe is smart-casual, so while you don’t need a suit, you’ll feel comfortable dressing up rather than showing up in beachwear.

Tucked into Los Feliz on Vermont Avenue, Mírate is a multi-level destination that puts agave spirits front and center while offering an approachable, vibrant Mexican dining experience. The space is designed to feel like a modern jungle-oasis, with foliage, skylights, and an architectural layout that draws your eyes upward — a 40-foot tree anchors the central courtyard, connecting the levels visually and atmospherically. The beverage program is curated by Max Reis and leans heavily into Mexican spirits — expect mezcal, tequila, lesser-known distillates (raicilla, sotol), and innovative cocktails that combine regional flavors and local produce. Drinks like El Güero (a margarita reinterpreted with aguachile, nopales granita, coconut, avocado-washed tequila, cucumber kelp garnish) and their canned paloma “Tu Compa” (with house-made Squirt, pulque, tequila, etc.) are signature highlights. Food is snack-and share plate style, designed to complement the agave experience. Dishes include tacos, ceviches, creative riffs on regional Mexican fare, and small plates that bridge tradition and innovation. Because of the layout, there are multiple bars and seating zones, including upstairs, balcony, and lower dining levels. The crowd is a mix — cocktail enthusiasts, locals from Los Feliz, couples on date nights, and people drawn to the bar’s spirit program. The vibe is lively but casual enough that “a great night out for around $50” is part of the vision. The team is also conscious about sourcing, sustainability, and spotlighting Mexican distillers and traditions. While it’s a restaurant + bar hybrid, Mírate leans more bar-forward: the interiors, drink focus, and ambiance make it a place to linger over cocktails as much as to dine.

Harvard & Stone is a standout bar nestled in the Thai Town / Hollywood area of Los Angeles at 5221 Hollywood Boulevard. The interior evokes a raw, factory-warehouse aesthetic: exposed brick, metal stairs, visible ductwork, dim lighting and multiple bar stations — giving the impression of multiple “rooms” inside one venue. Cocktails are clearly taken seriously. The venue features a menu of creative, custom drinks with names as bold as the flavours; according to reviews “the cocktails are excellent.” Live music, burlesque and DJ sets are part of the identity. On many nights you’ll catch rock or blues sets, and the second floor often becomes a vantage point for performances. The atmosphere is both bar-and-show: while it's not a full nightclub, it has energy. The site notes dress code preferences: “shiny shirts, shorts, sports gear, logos, flip flops, most hats and loud colours are highly discouraged.” Service is described as helpful and the place is praised for strong drinks rather than gimmicks, making it suitable for cocktail-connoisseurs who also want a lively night out.

Bigfoot Lodge is a beloved and quirky bar located at 3172 Los Feliz Blvd in Los Angeles, offering a blend of rugged cabin-in-the-woods aesthetic and neighbourhood bar warmth. Inside you’ll find wood-panelled walls, mountain-lodge furniture, taxidermy (perhaps Bigfoot’s own shadow), Smokey the Bear nods, and ambient lighting that invites a relaxed yet playful evening. The bar is operated by 1933 Group, and from its site: “Bigfoot Lodge is a beloved Eastside destination … revel in nightly activities such as bingo, trivia, comedy, and live music.” The drinks programme features an expansive whiskey list, craft beers, cocktails and a solid happy-hour offer (daily 5pm–8pm) that appeals both to local regulars and visitors. Events are regularly held: Monday karaoke, Tuesday bluegrass, Wednesday trivia—all part of the Lodge’s charm as a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet delivers quality. The neighbourhood (Los Feliz / Atwater Village border) adds to the local vibe—the bar is accessible, has parking and offers a laid-back alternative to glitzy Hollywood. In short: Bigfoot Lodge is perfect when you want a fun, distinctive bar with atmosphere, drinks and something a little offbeat.

Located on the second floor at 515 W 7th Street in Downtown Los Angeles, Seven Grand is a standout whisky-bar destination known for its massive global spirits collection and stylish “gentleman’s lodge” interiors. From the moment you ascend the staircase and enter, the ambience evokes a vintage hunting lodge: dark woods, forest-green accents, mounted antlers, and a long walnut bar that stretches across the room. Behind it sits an impressive wall of whisky bottles – scotch, Japanese single malts, bourbons, ryes, rare bottlings and more. Cocktail-wise, Seven Grand doesn’t simply lean on whisky—though it remains the hero. Their menu features classic whisky-based drinks like the Old Fashioned or Boulevardier, alongside seasonal specials and well-executed variations. On happy hour (Mon–Thu 3pm–8pm) you’ll find specials such as Toki Highball for US $11. The vibe crosses from refined sipping to social hang-out: there are pool tables, outdoor patio seating, live music or DJ sets on specific nights, and a welcoming crowd of whisky lovers, after-work drinkers and night-owl revelers. If you’re a whisky aficionado searching for a wide global selection, or just someone wanting a stylish yet relaxed night out with strong drinks, Seven Grand hits the mark. The basement or hidden back bar (or connected speakeasy) add further depth for those who want something more intimate.

Located on Ventura Boulevard in Sherman Oaks, Daisy Margarita Bar is a new concept from the team behind Mírate (Los Feliz), stepping into the world of the margarita with both reverence and playful invention. The name “Daisy” nods to the etymological root of “margarita,” and the venue presents itself as a “gastro-cantina”: a space where cocktail artistry and refined Mexican cuisine intersect. Interior design embraces a vaquero / cowboy aesthetic: leather stools with fringe, corduroy booths, wood paneling, neon and Mexican art, taxidermy accents, and a custom jukebox (activated via drink tokens) The cocktail menu leans into creative riffs on the margarita: you’ll find Salsa Verde Margarita, Frozen Guacamole Margarita, mangoneada styles crowned with popping boba, and savory elements like charred tomatillo and green chile built into the margarita logic. Drinks are crafted with attention to balance — even classic styles are precisely dosed with saline instead of rim salt. The food menu supports the bar: small plates, seafood accents (aguachile, tostadas), branzino, tacos, lamb shank, and inventive takes on chicharrón. In addition, upstairs from the main bar is a speakeasy “Gilbert Pérez Bar,” focusing more on Mexican rum cocktails and tropical motifs, with more experimental equipment behind the scenes. The ambiance is lively yet warm — low-lit, textured, rustic but elevated. On weekends, Daisy draws a crowd, and reservations are recommended. Daisy is ambitious in its identity: equal parts homage to Mexican tradition, inventive cocktail atelier, and flirtation with theatrical drink design.

Squirrelor’s Tavern is not your everyday bar—it’s an immersive, theatrical dining and drinking experience tucked above a sports bar in downtown Los Angeles (address below). From the moment you arrive you’re transported into a fantasy realm: the décor features faux cobblestones, flickering candles, animal skulls, squirrel-art, and props reminiscent of taverns from fantasy games and novels. You’ll find hidden puzzles, mysterious scrolls, locked chests on shelves and a storyline intertwined with your visit—guests are encouraged to explore, participate, and become part of the narrative. The format is booking-only: sessions run 2 to 2.5 hours and include food and drinks, with thematic interaction as part of the show. One reviewer describes it as “a gathering spot for puzzles and a light, escape-room-inspired narrative … you forget you’re in the second floor of a little sports bar in downtown L.A.” While the setting is immersive, the mood remains fun and social—not formal or ultra-fine dining. Expect cocktails, bar-style fare, and an evening of engaging entertainment. However, note that as of the latest updates the venue is marked as closed for now, with future incarnations pending.