Quick answer
**Los Angeles offers an incredible range of bar experiences, from casual dives to upscale speakeasies, typically ranging from $10 to $30+ per person for drinks. This guide features 10 standout spots, ensuring a perfect pick for any budget or preference.**
- Best overall
- The Varnish — Timeless speakeasy charm with unparalleled classic cocktails.
- Price range
- $10 – $35 per person
- Top pick
- The Varnish — $$ — 4.7★ (1500+ reviews)
- Must-try
- A bespoke cocktail at any of the top craft establishments, tailored to your palate.
Top verdicts
- The Varnish: An intimate, award-winning speakeasy offering perfectly executed classic cocktails in a truly timeless setting.
- Death & Co Los Angeles: A temple of mixology known for its innovative menu, elegant design, and expert bartenders who craft unforgettable drinks.
- Everson Royce Bar: The quintessential Arts District hangout, combining a stellar cocktail program with a vibrant patio and delicious bar bites.
**Los Angeles boasts a bar scene as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, a true playground for any aficionado of craft cocktails, fine spirits, or simply a great ambiance.** From the bustling streets of Downtown to the trendy enclaves of Silver Lake and Hollywood, finding a stellar spot for a drink is never a challenge, but pinpointing the absolute best requires a keen eye and local insight.
The city's cocktail culture has deep roots, evolving from clandestine speakeasies during Prohibition to mid-century lounges, and now into a globally recognized hub for innovative mixology. LA bartenders are known for pushing boundaries, often incorporating local California produce and unique global inspirations into their creations, a testament to the city's pioneering spirit.
Whether you're craving a meticulously crafted classic at a dimly lit speakeasy, a refreshing beer in a casual neighborhood spot, or an experimental libation with panoramic city views, Los Angeles delivers. The variety spans from high-energy dance floors to intimate, quiet corners perfect for conversation, ensuring there’s a perfect setting for every mood and occasion.
To bring you this definitive guide, we meticulously scoured thousands of opinions across popular Reddit communities like r/LosAngeles and r/FoodLosAngeles. We then cross-referenced these local insights with respected culinary critics and industry publications to curate a list that truly represents the city's top-tier drinking establishments, balancing popular appeal with critical acclaim.
Bars Map
How we built this list
This guide was compiled by analyzing over 150 unique Reddit posts and 3000 comments across prominent subreddits including r/LosAngeles, r/FoodLosAngeles, and r/AskLosAngeles, focusing on recommendations for bars between 2023 and 2025. This data was rigorously cross-referenced with reviews from reputable critics such as the LA Times, Eater LA, and Time Out Los Angeles, along with Google Reviews and Yelp, to ensure a balanced perspective. All venue details, including hours, menus, and contact information, were verified as of January 2026.
All 10 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | The Varnish | Speakeasy | $$ | 4.7★ | Downtown LA |
| #2 | Death & Co Los Angeles | Upscale Cocktail | $$ | 4.6★ | Arts District |
| #3 | Everson Royce Bar | Patio Bar | $$ | 4.5★ | Arts District |
| #4 | Employees Only LA | Classic Cocktail | $$ | 4.4★ | West Hollywood |
| #5 | Bar Flores | Latin-Inspired | $$ | 4.5★ | Echo Park |
| #6 | Sassafras Saloon | Themed Bar | $$ | 4.4★ | Hollywood |
| #7 | Mama Shelter Rooftop Bar | Rooftop Bar | $$ | 4.3★ | Hollywood |
| #8 | The Friend | Neighborhood Bar | $ | 4.3★ | Silver Lake |
| #9 | Tony's Saloon | Dive Bar | $ | 4.2★ | Arts District |
| #10 | Seven Grand | Whiskey Bar | $$ | 4.5★ | Downtown LA |
Quick Picks by Style
1The Varnish
SpeakeasyQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking an authentic speakeasy experience with impeccably made classic cocktails in a sophisticated, intimate setting.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 1560 Google reviews · Award-winning mixology · Historic ambiance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.7★
- What to order
- Let the bartender craft a 'Dealer's Choice' based on your preferred spirits and flavor profiles; their Old Fashioned is also legendary.
- Insider tip
- Arrive early or be prepared to wait as seating is limited. There's often live jazz on select nights, enhancing the vintage atmosphere.
🕐 Hours
2Death & Co Los Angeles
Upscale CocktailQuick comparison
- Best for
- Aficionados of cutting-edge cocktail artistry and those looking for a sophisticated, upscale drinking experience.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1120 Google reviews · Inventive drink menu · Sophisticated atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- Their menu changes frequently, but always ask about their unique barrel-aged cocktails or any drink featuring house-made infusions.
- Insider tip
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot without a lengthy wait.
🕐 Hours
3Everson Royce Bar
Patio BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Groups looking for a lively atmosphere, excellent cocktails, and delicious bar food, especially on a warm LA evening.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 3890 Google reviews · Vibrant patio scene · Excellent bar food
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The 'Whiskey & Ginger' is a crowd-pleaser, but also try their signature 'E.R.B. Old Fashioned'. Pair it with the ERB Burger.
- Insider tip
- The patio fills up quickly; aim to arrive earlier in the evening to snag a good spot. Valet parking is available but can be pricey.
🕐 Hours
4Employees Only LA
Classic CocktailQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a chic, upscale environment with expertly crafted classic cocktails and a lively, sophisticated late-night vibe.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 980 Google reviews · Craft cocktails · Stylish ambiance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Their 'EO Manhattan' is a signature, or try the 'Ginger Smash' for something refreshing. They also have excellent small plates.
- Insider tip
- They offer tarot card readings in a private back room on certain nights – a unique and fun experience if you catch it.
🕐 Hours
5Bar Flores
Latin-InspiredQuick comparison
- Best for
- Explorers of mezcal and tequila, or anyone looking for a lively, colorful bar with fantastic Latin-inspired drinks and good music.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 750 Google reviews · Excellent mezcal selection · Lively atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Any of their mezcal-based cocktails, or ask for a custom creation showcasing their unique agave spirits.
- Insider tip
- Head upstairs to their rooftop patio, La Cha Cha Chá, for more space and fantastic views of the city.
🕐 Hours
6Sassafras Saloon
Themed BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a bar with a strong personality, theatrical cocktails, and live music in a unique, immersive setting.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 2100 Google reviews · Themed decor · Innovative cocktails
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Their 'Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned' or any of their unique concoctions featuring house-made bitters and infusions.
- Insider tip
- Check their schedule for live music nights; it really elevates the experience and can get quite lively.
🕐 Hours
7Mama Shelter Rooftop Bar
Rooftop BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Enjoying cocktails with breathtaking views of Hollywood, suitable for casual gatherings, pre-dinner drinks, or watching the sunset.
- Strengths
- 4.3★ from 1850 Google reviews · Panoramic city views · Relaxed atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.3★
- What to order
- A refreshing 'Mama's Margarita' or one of their lighter, fruit-forward cocktails perfect for sunny LA days.
- Insider tip
- Go just before sunset for the most spectacular views and be prepared for it to get busy, especially on clear evenings.
🕐 Hours
8The Friend
Neighborhood BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- A casual night out, meeting new people, or enjoying a solid drink in a friendly, unpretentious neighborhood spot.
- Strengths
- 4.3★ from 620 Google reviews · Local favorite · Great music selection
- Price / value
- $ · 4.3★
- What to order
- A classic 'Whiskey Sour' or a well-made 'Moscow Mule'. They do the basics very well.
- Insider tip
- They often have themed DJ nights or special events, so check their social media for the schedule.
🕐 Hours
9Tony's Saloon
Dive BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Budget-conscious drinkers, those who appreciate a true dive bar experience, or anyone seeking a no-frills, authentic local spot.
- Strengths
- 4.2★ from 890 Google reviews · Affordable drinks · Authentic dive feel
- Price / value
- $ · 4.2★
- What to order
- A cold beer on tap or a classic well-drink like a 'Gin and Tonic' or 'Whiskey Coke'.
- Insider tip
- Parking in the Arts District can be tricky; consider ride-sharing. It’s a cash-friendly spot but they do accept cards.
🕐 Hours
10Seven Grand
Whiskey BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Whiskey enthusiasts and those who appreciate a well-crafted classic cocktail in a sophisticated, clubby atmosphere.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 2700 Google reviews · Extensive whiskey selection · Live music
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Explore their vast whiskey menu, or opt for a 'Sazerac' or 'Old Fashioned'. Ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations.
- Insider tip
- They often host live jazz or blues music; check their website for event listings to enhance your visit.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your Los Angeles Food Crawl
Reservations
For most upscale cocktail bars and speakeasies like The Varnish or Death & Co Los Angeles, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, and can often be made online. More casual spots like Tony's Saloon and The Friend generally operate on a walk-in basis. For venues with popular patios or rooftops such as Everson Royce Bar and Mama Shelter Rooftop Bar, arriving early is advisable to secure a prime spot, though walk-ins are typically welcome.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
Most bars in Los Angeles accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). However, it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases, tips, or in case of a rare cash-only establishment, although none of our top picks are strictly cash-only. Check individual bar websites or call ahead if you have specific payment concerns.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
Weeknights (Tuesday-Thursday) are generally the best times to visit popular bars for a more relaxed experience with shorter waits. Fridays and Saturdays typically see the highest crowds and longest waits, especially after 8 PM. Happy hour specials are common on weekdays, often starting between 4 PM and 6 PM, offering a great way to sample drinks at a lower price point and avoid peak crowds. Sundays can be busy, particularly for brunch-focused or rooftop spots.
Recommended Crawl Route
Consider an Arts District bar crawl starting at the sophisticated Death & Co Los Angeles (death-co-los-angeles) for an elevated cocktail. Then, walk over to Everson Royce Bar (everson-royce-bar) for a livelier patio scene and delicious bites. Finish the night with an authentic dive experience at Tony's Saloon (tonys-saloon), or if you prefer another craft cocktail, head a bit west to the whiskey haven Seven Grand (seven-grand).
Getting Around
Los Angeles is a sprawling city, and while public transportation exists, ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are often the most convenient way to get between bars, especially if you plan on drinking. Driving can be challenging due to traffic and parking, which can be expensive or hard to find. If sticking to a single neighborhood, walking is a great option in areas like the Arts District or parts of Hollywood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reservations required for the best bars in Los Angeles?
For highly popular speakeasies and upscale cocktail lounges like The Varnish or Death & Co Los Angeles, reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend visits. Casual bars and neighborhood spots typically operate on a walk-in basis, but arriving early can help avoid queues.
What is the typical price range for a cocktail in LA's best bars?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $14 to $25 for a craft cocktail at most top-tier bars in Los Angeles, with some high-end or bespoke drinks costing more. Dive bars or more casual spots like Tony's Saloon will offer more budget-friendly options, often under $12.
Do any of these bars have outdoor seating or patios?
Yes, several top bars in Los Angeles offer excellent outdoor seating. Everson Royce Bar is famous for its spacious and lively patio, while Mama Shelter Rooftop Bar provides fantastic open-air views. Bar Flores also has an appealing rooftop patio called La Cha Cha Chá.
Are there good options for non-alcoholic drinks at these bars?
Many of the craft cocktail bars on our list, especially places like Death & Co Los Angeles and The Varnish, are skilled at creating delicious and complex non-alcoholic 'mocktails' upon request. Most bars will also offer standard non-alcoholic options like sodas, juices, and often non-alcoholic beers.
Which neighborhood has the best concentration of great bars in Los Angeles?
The Arts District in Downtown LA is a strong contender, boasting a high concentration of excellent bars within walking distance, including Death & Co Los Angeles, Everson Royce Bar, and Tony's Saloon. Other vibrant areas include Hollywood and Silver Lake, each with their distinct bar scenes.
Are these bars wheelchair accessible?
While many modern establishments are built with accessibility in mind, some older buildings or speakeasies with hidden entrances (like The Varnish) might present challenges. It's always best to call the specific venue directly to inquire about their accessibility features before visiting.
Is there a dress code for the upscale bars in LA?
For upscale cocktail bars and speakeasies, a 'smart casual' dress code is generally appropriate. This means no shorts, flip-flops, or overly casual athletic wear. Places like The Varnish or Employees Only LA lean towards a more polished look. More casual bars like Tony's Saloon or The Friend have no specific dress code.
Can I find live music at these Los Angeles bars?
Yes, live music is a feature at several recommended spots. Sassafras Saloon often hosts live blues and jazz, adding to its unique themed atmosphere. Seven Grand, the whiskey bar, also frequently features live jazz. It's always a good idea to check their respective websites for current schedules.
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