Los Angeles’s bar scene offers a diverse range of establishments, from historic lounges to modern cocktail spots and dive bars, reflecting the city’s multifaceted nightlife despite its car-centric culture and evolving social trends.
The journey begins at The Tower Bar, located within the restored Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood. The hotel, an Art Deco icon dating back to 1929, once housed notable figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Bugsy Siegel. Since its 2018 renovation, The Tower Bar has become a popular venue for Hollywood industry gatherings. Bartender David Futernick recommends trying a classic gin martini, with his own variation featuring Hendrick’s gin and lemon twist. As temperatures rise, he also suggests refreshing options like a cucumber mojito or a Tim’s Cup cocktail, which blends Pimm’s, gin, lemon juice, ginger syrup, and strawberry purée. On the subject of local favorites, Futernick points to The Roger Room, The Dresden Room, and Atwater Village’s dive bar The Roost as noteworthy spots.
The Dresden Room, established in 1954 and famed for its appearance in the film Swingers, retains its vintage charm with retro décor and live music. Bartender Isaac Britt highlights the bar’s enduring appeal. During a visit, an Old Fashioned—a bourbon-based cocktail with a balanced bitterness—was praised for its well-executed preparation. When asked about his preferred watering holes, Britt mentions Thunderbolt in Echo Park, The Black Cat in Silver Lake, and Lily’s Bar (now Franklin Lounge), the latter noted for its mid-century airport-inspired atmosphere.
Franklin Lounge, situated in Hollywood Hills, occupies a former Best Western motel that was refurbished into an intimate cocktail bar with a 1960s aesthetic. Bartender Cassidy Calwaystein recommends their Manhattan, lauded as one of the best in the city, followed by a Braulio Amaro digestif prepared with a shaken, creamy finish. She also endorses The Prince, a Korean bar known for its inviting environment and quality martinis.
The Prince, located on West Seventh Street, combines a bar and full-service Korean restaurant within a Tudor-Revival building dating back to 1926. Its interior retains mid-century elements, and the bar’s lively atmosphere pairs well with menu offerings such as kimchi fried rice and fried chicken. The venue has a reputation for blending cultural experiences, serving both drinks and meals in a bustling setting.
Gold Line, a vinyl bar in Highland Park, is helmed by Chris Manak (aka Peanut Butter Wolf), owner of the Stones Throw Records label. The bar features an extensive record collection and high-end audio equipment. Cocktails here include innovative creations like the Souls on Board—a Toki whisky-based drink with toasted sesame orgeat and Italian amaro finished with Angostura bitters. Bartender Karl Ostby recommends Al’s Cocktails in nearby San Gabriel, describing it as a favored local dive.
Despite perceptions of Los Angeles as a city shaped by driving and wellness trends, its bar offerings remain varied and vibrant, blending historical legacy with contemporary innovation to cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences.