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16 Best Cocktail Bars in Los Angeles

Discover the vibrant cocktail scene of Los Angeles with a visit to some of the city's best cocktail bars. From upscale lounges to trendy speakeasies, LA offers a diverse range of options for those looking to enjoy expertly crafted drinks in a stylish setting.

Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor seeking a memorable night out, this list of the 16 Best Cocktail Bars in Los Angeles will help you navigate the city's bustling bar scene. Each venue offers its own unique ambiance, signature cocktails, and top-notch service, ensuring a memorable experience for every patron.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic Old Fashioned or a unique craft creation, Los Angeles has a cocktail bar to suit every taste. Explore the city's cocktail culture and discover your new favorite watering hole today!

How this guide is ordered

Chosen for expertise, reputation, complete information and location within Los Angeles.

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Or Bar, Los Angeles#1
What stands out
  • Efficient and kind staff

  • Great selection of cocktails

  • Beautiful setting with spacious layout

Or Bar

4.8280 reviews
8228 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046, United States

Or Bar is a trendy and upmarket bar located in West Hollywood, CA. The establishment offers a variety of services and features that cater to different preferences. Customers have highlighted several key points in their reviews:

The bar opens early at 7 AM, making it a great spot for remote work or meetings, offering coffee in the morning and transitioning to drinks later in the day with early bird specials and happy hour. The ambiance is described as chic and classy, creating a delightful experience for all visitors. Whether for a special gathering or a casual night out, Or Bar passes the vibe check with flying colors.

Wolf & Crane Bar, Los Angeles#2
What stands out
  • Good cocktails with a unique menu and great atmosphere. Bartenders are kind but may be understaffed during peak hours.

  • Great whiskey selection, but limited seating and lack of air conditioning can be a downside. Non-alcoholic drinks are surprisingly good.

  • A vibrant and lively ambiance with different seating options, including a full bar, high tables, and benches. DJ nights and a welcoming crowd make it a favorite spot for a night out.

  • Charming Japanese decor with a clean and cute vibe. Customers appreciate the indoor and outdoor seating options, making it an ideal place for a date or gathering.

Wolf & Crane Bar

4.5543 reviews
366 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Wolf & Crane Bar is a trendy and casual spot in Los Angeles, offering a unique selection of creative cocktails and an imposing whiskey collection. Customers have praised the bar for its great atmosphere and variety of options. Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

With a 4.5-star rating and positive customer feedback, Wolf & Crane Bar is a must-visit destination for those looking for a lively and unique bar experience in the heart of Los Angeles.

Frolic Room, Los Angeles#3
What stands out
  • Convenient location away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. Fast and beautiful service.

  • Great historical vibes, perfect for history enthusiasts. Reasonable drink prices and wonderful service.

  • A classic dive bar with amazing vibes, friendly bartenders, and ice-cold drinks. Perfect for those who appreciate history.

  • Strong drinks, excellent service, and a place oozing with history. A must-visit spot for anyone looking for a classic Hollywood experience.

Frolic Room

4.4850 reviews
6245 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

Frolic Room is a popular cocktail bar located in the heart of Hollywood. Known for its great beer selection and live performances, this spot has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The bar offers a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

With a 4.4-star rating based on 850 reviews, it's clear that customers love what Frolic Room has to offer. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

If you're looking for a place with character, great drinks, and a touch of Hollywood history, Frolic Room is the place to be.

Bar Jackalope, Los Angeles#4
What stands out
  • Super dope and hidden bar with knowledgeable servers.

  • Outstanding experience for special occasions like anniversaries.

  • Great whiskey selection with a cozy speakeasy vibe.

Bar Jackalope

4.896 reviews
515 W 7th St #200, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Bar Jackalope is a hidden gem in downtown Los Angeles, offering a unique experience for whiskey enthusiasts. With a vintage decor and a very welcoming atmosphere, this bar stands out for its excellent customer service and knowledgeable staff. Customers can enjoy a wide selection of whiskeys, including blind tasting flights that add an element of fun and surprise to the experience.

Whether you are a whiskey aficionado or a newcomer to the world of spirits, Bar Jackalope caters to all, providing a memorable and intimate setting for a night out. Make sure to reserve a table to secure your spot in this trendy and LGBTQ+ friendly establishment.

The Varnish, Los Angeles#5
What stands out
  • This spot is great! Highly recommend as a great spot to have a date, catch up with a friend or even solo enjoy a delicious cocktail!

  • Hands down my favorite craft cocktail lounge in LA, with a 20's speak-easy vibe and the occasional live jazz music.

  • Small and intimate bar with some of the best cocktails in LA, alongside live music for a charming evening out.

  • Expert bartenders who are kind, attentive, and can create personalized drinks based on your preferences.

The Varnish

4.5469 reviews
118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

The Varnish is a hidden gem in Los Angeles, offering a memorable experience for those who appreciate expertly crafted cocktails in a speakeasy-style setting. This bar is known for its fast service, great cocktails, karaoke nights, and live performances. The ambiance is described as cosy, trendy, and upmarket, making it the perfect spot for a date night or catching up with friends.

Death & Co Los Angeles#6
What stands out
  • Customers rave about the luxurious feel and sexy ambiance of the bar, making it a great spot for a night out.

  • The craft cocktails served here are not only delicious but also presented as true works of art, with each drink offering a unique and memorable experience.

  • Visitors appreciate the outstanding service provided by the staff, who are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring a top-notch experience for every guest.

Death & Co Los Angeles

4.5368 reviews
818 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Death & Co Los Angeles is a renowned cocktail bar located in the heart of Los Angeles. With a ranking of 4.5 stars, it offers a range of services and features that make it a standout establishment in the area.

These are just a few of the many positive reviews shared by patrons of Death & Co Los Angeles. The bar's cosy, trendy, and upmarket atmosphere, paired with its great cocktails and fast service, make it a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and those looking for a memorable night out in Los Angeles.

Big Bar, Los Angeles#7
What stands out
  • This spot is so cute! Julia and Kyle made delicious cocktails.

  • Great place for a chill date night with amazing bartenders.

  • Personable bartenders and a gem of a place to appreciate.

  • Quality bartending and a favorite place to drink in LA.

Big Bar

4.6116 reviews
1927 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Big Bar is a popular cocktail bar located in Los Angeles, offering a wide range of services and amenities that cater to its diverse clientele. The establishment prides itself on providing fast service and boasts a great beer selection, great cocktails, and a great wine list for patrons to enjoy in a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere.

Customer reviews rave about the excellent food and amazing staff, with many highlighting the delicious cocktails and personable, dedicated bartenders. Visitors appreciate the outdoor seating option and the adjacent café with a full menu, making it a versatile spot for any occasion.

Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles#8
What stands out
  • Better rooftop views and comfortable seating

  • Great cocktails and delicious food options

  • Fast service and friendly staff

Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles

4.2721 reviews
416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles is a popular cocktail bar located in the heart of Los Angeles. With a ranking of 4.2 and 721 reviews, this establishment offers a range of services and features that cater to its diverse clientele.

Customers have shared their experiences, with one mentioning the "amazing rooftop experience," while another praised the "stunning views with great little appetizer type foods." Despite some mixed reviews about cleanliness and pricing, Broken Shaker remains a top choice for those looking for a trendy spot with a relaxed atmosphere and tasty cocktails.

Bar Figueroa, Los Angeles#9

Bar Figueroa

4.674 reviews
939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

Bar Figueroa · Bar · 939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

Paper Tiger Bar, Los Angeles#10
What stands out
  • Came here after grabbing dinner on a Thursday and it had a good vibe. Just the right amount of people, friendly bartender, and cool decorations.

  • Paper Tiger Bar has a really comfy, classy feel with quick and friendly service. Drinks are unique and consistently good.

  • Great atmosphere, DJ plays good music, awesome bartenders, and overall a fun environment.

  • Very classy and nicely decorated bar with pleasant bartenders and great aesthetics.

Paper Tiger Bar

4.4155 reviews
4574 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004, United States

Paper Tiger Bar is a trendy spot located in Los Angeles, CA, offering a wide range of services and amenities. This bar is known for its fast service and great cocktails, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors. With live music and live performances, customers can enjoy a unique and entertaining experience.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Overall, Paper Tiger Bar is a must-visit destination for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable bar experience in Los Angeles.

Drawing Room, Los Angeles#11
What stands out
  • A fun atmosphere to relax and get cocktails

  • Strong drinks and quirky vibes

  • A vintage feel and a place full of characters

  • Cheapest drinks in the area with a pleasant and quirky ambiance

Drawing Room

4.3252 reviews
1800 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Drawing Room is a popular cocktail bar located in Los Angeles. They offer a variety of services and features that make it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Some of the highlights of this bar include bar games, great cocktails, karaoke, and live performances. The atmosphere is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, making it a versatile space for different occasions.

Customer reviews rave about the friendly staff, reasonable prices, and fun atmosphere at Drawing Room. Some key points from reviews include:

With a ranking of 4.3 and a total of 252 reviews, Drawing Room is a must-visit destination for those looking for a unique and enjoyable bar experience in Los Angeles.

Little Joy Cocktails, Los Angeles#12

Little Joy Cocktails

4.2281 reviews
1477 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States

Little Joy Cocktails · Cocktail bar · 1477 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States

Gallery Bar and Cognac Room, Los Angeles#13
What stands out
  • The building is incredible, but the vibes are off, especially the lighting.

  • The burger is fantastic, one of the best in town.

  • The service could be improved to match the luxurious ambiance.

Gallery Bar and Cognac Room

4.383 reviews
506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071, United States

Gallery Bar and Cognac Room is a trendy bar located in Los Angeles, offering a wide selection of drinks and delicious food options. The venue boasts a cozy atmosphere with fast service, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. With highlights like great cocktails and a vast wine list, customers can enjoy a luxurious experience in a historic setting.

The Powder Room, Los Angeles#14
What stands out
  • The aesthetic is kooky but cool, with fun games and cute pink lighting.

  • Abundance of space even during crowded events.

  • Bartenders are creative with cocktails and provide exceptional service.

  • Strong drinks and fun atmosphere keep customers coming back for more.

The Powder Room

4.225 reviews
1606 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

The Powder Room is a vibrant event venue located in the heart of Los Angeles. The establishment offers a unique and kooky aesthetic, with cute pink lo-fi lighting, cult classic films playing on the wall, and fun games like Connect Four for guests to enjoy. The bartenders are known for their dancing skills and creative cocktails, making every visit a memorable experience. Customers have praised the abundance of space, exceptional service, and strong drinks poured at The Powder Room. Whether you're looking for a chill spot for drinks with great music or a place to dance the night away, this venue is not to be missed.

Bar Magnolia, Los Angeles#15
What stands out
  • One customer mentioned that it was a breath of fresh air to step into Bar Magnolia during a busy event nearby, rating it 5 stars.

  • On the other hand, another visitor found the prices too high for the quality of food and slow service, giving it a rating of 2 stars.

  • A satisfied patron simply described it as a "great place with great drinks," also giving it a 5-star rating.

  • Lastly, a customer gave a 4-star rating without leaving a comment.

Bar Magnolia

4.04 reviews
939 S Figueroa St Suite 400, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

Bar Magnolia is a popular cocktail bar located in Los Angeles, offering a wide range of services and amenities to its customers. With a ranking of 4.0, this bar has received mixed reviews from visitors.

If you are looking for a place with fast service, great cocktails, and a great wine list, Bar Magnolia might be the perfect spot for you. With various offerings including alcohol, beer, cocktails, food, spirits, and wine, this bar provides a cosy and trendy atmosphere for groups and tourists alike. Don't forget to bring your credit cards as they accept payments through this method. Make sure to visit Bar Magnolia to enjoy a unique cocktail experience in the heart of the city.

Cocktail Academy, Los Angeles#16
What stands out
  • Excellent selection of cocktails

  • Trendy and vibrant atmosphere

  • Great place for group gatherings

Cocktail Academy

2228 Barry Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90064, United States

Cocktail Academy is a popular cocktail bar located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of services and features that make them stand out in the area. Customers have praised the bar for its great cocktails and trendy atmosphere.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a night out with friends or host a special event, Cocktail Academy has you covered. Visit their website for more information on their offerings and upcoming events.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Or Bar 4.8280
#2Wolf & Crane Bar 4.5543
#3Frolic Room 4.4850
#4Bar Jackalope 4.896
#5The Varnish 4.5469
#6Death & Co Los Angeles 4.5368
#7Big Bar 4.6116
#8Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles 4.2721
#9Bar Figueroa 4.674
#10Paper Tiger Bar 4.4155
#11Drawing Room 4.3252
#12Little Joy Cocktails 4.2281
#13Gallery Bar and Cognac Room 4.383
#14The Powder Room 4.225
#15Bar Magnolia 4.04
#16Cocktail Academy——

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Map of Cocktail Bars in Los Angeles

Looking for the best places to enjoy a delicious cocktail in Los Angeles? Look no further than this comprehensive map of all the top cocktail bars in the city. Whether you're in the mood for a classic martini or a creative craft concoction, this map will guide you to the perfect spot to sip and savor in style.

How to choose cocktail bars in Los Angeles

  1. Handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients.
  2. Extensive selection of spirits and mixers.
  3. Creative and innovative drink menu.
  4. Knowledgeable and friendly bartenders.
  5. Stylish and inviting atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions

What are the top cocktail bars in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is home to a plethora of world-class cocktail bars that cater to all tastes. Some of the top establishments include The Varnish, The Walker Inn, and Melrose Umbrella Co. Each of these bars offers a unique atmosphere and a diverse selection of drinks crafted by talented mixologists. Whether you prefer classic cocktails or innovative creations, you'll find something to love at these popular spots. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as these trendy bars can get crowded, especially on weekends. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the best cocktails Los Angeles has to offer!

How can I find the best speakeasy bars in Los Angeles?

Speakeasy bars are hidden gems in Los Angeles that offer a unique experience for cocktail enthusiasts. To discover the best speakeasies in the city, consider exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods like Downtown and Koreatown. Look for subtle clues like unmarked doors or discreet entrances, which are hallmarks of speakeasy bars. Once inside, you'll be transported to a bygone era with retro decor and secretive vibes. Some well-known speakeasies in Los Angeles include Blind Barber, The Slipper Clutch, and Adults Only. These establishments are perfect for those looking to enjoy intimate settings and expertly crafted cocktails.

What are the recommended cocktail bars with rooftop views in Los Angeles?

For a memorable cocktail experience with stunning views of the city, head to one of Los Angeles' rooftop bars. These elevated venues combine scenic panoramas with delicious drinks, making them perfect for special occasions or romantic dates. Popular rooftop bars in Los Angeles include Perch, The Highlight Room, and EP & LP. Enjoy your favorite cocktails while taking in breathtaking sights of the cityscape and beyond. Keep in mind that rooftop bars can be seasonal and may have limited seating, so it's a good idea to check availability and make reservations in advance. Don't miss the chance to sip cocktails in style at these sought-after locations!

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