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16 Best Dive Bars in Los Angeles

For those seeking an authentic and laid-back drinking experience in Los Angeles, dive bars offer a unique atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else. These unpretentious watering holes often have a rich history, cheap drinks, and loyal regulars who add to the charm of the place.

Whether you're a local looking for a new haunt or a visitor wanting to immerse yourself in the city's nightlife scene, exploring the dive bars in Los Angeles can provide you with a memorable and exciting experience. From dimly lit interiors to jukeboxes playing classic tunes, each dive bar has its own unique character that sets it apart from the rest.

Below is a list of the 16 Best Dive Bars in Los Angeles that you can explore for a truly authentic and unforgettable night out in the city.

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

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#1
Golden Gopher
4.5603 reviews
#2
Frolic Room
4.4850 reviews
#3
Gold Diggers Bar
4.6255 reviews

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Golden Gopher, Los Angeles#1
What stands out

  • One customer mentioned feeling unfairly cut off from ordering more drinks, while others around them were not. Despite this, they wished everyone else an amazing time.

  • Another visitor praised the amazing drinks, wonderful staff, and the mid-century vibe of the decor.

  • A satisfied patron highlighted the classic and iconic atmosphere, along with the neat patio area and seriously stiff drinks.

  • Even though another customer enjoyed the ambiance, they felt uncomfortable with the lack of customer service from some of the bartenders.

Golden Gopher

4.5603 reviews
417 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Golden Gopher is a popular bar located in Los Angeles, offering a variety of services and features to its customers. With a rank of 4.5, it is known for its great beer selection, cocktails, bar games, and fast service. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a great spot to hang out with friends.

Customer reviews highlight different aspects of the bar:

Overall, Golden Gopher seems to be a great choice for those looking for a laid-back yet vibrant bar experience in Los Angeles.

Frolic Room, Los Angeles#2
What stands out

  • Customers appreciate the convenient location and fast service, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.

  • The atmosphere and history of the place are highly praised, with mentions of celebrities and movie history adding to the charm.

  • Visitors enjoy the classic dive bar vibes, friendly bartenders, reasonable drink prices, and the lack of food that allows them to focus on the drinks and service.

  • Patrons who appreciate history and Hollywood nostalgia find Frolic Room to be a must-visit spot, with its unchanged interior and connection to famous figures from the past.

Frolic Room

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

Frolic Room is a classic cocktail bar located in the heart of Hollywood. Known for its great beer selection and cocktails, this historical venue offers fast service and live performances that keep customers coming back. The place has a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere that appeals to both locals and tourists.

Gold Diggers Bar, Los Angeles#3
What stands out

  • A great venue for live music, with good sound quality and a nice stage.

  • Friendly bartenders, solid drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for music enthusiasts.

  • A cool divey vibe, attentive bartenders, and a fun crowd that makes for a memorable night out.

  • An awesome experience with live music, proactive staff during unexpected events, and a recommendation for those in the area or looking for a lively atmosphere.

Gold Diggers Bar

4.6255 reviews
5632 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States

Gold Diggers Bar is a cozy and vibrant spot in Los Angeles that offers a range of service options including delivery and dine-in. With a diverse selection of offerings from alcohol to cocktails, this bar is known for its fast service, great beer selection, and live music performances. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, attracting a friendly and diverse crowd.

Customer reviews highlight:

Tiny's Hi-Dive, Los Angeles#4
What stands out

  • Customers appreciate the warm and welcoming environment of Tiny's, describing it as a place with people from all walks of life.

  • The drinks and food menu are highlighted for being simple, easy, and inexpensive, with special mentions of the Chicago dog and tiki drinks.

  • The fun and engaging activities available at the bar, such as arcade games, pool table, and karaoke, are well-loved by patrons.

  • Customers also commend the friendly staff and reasonable prices at Tiny's Hi-Dive.

Tiny's Hi-Dive

4.7131 reviews
12012 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064, United States

Tiny's Hi-Dive is a vibrant bar located in Los Angeles, CA. This establishment offers a variety of services and features to its customers, including bar games, fast service, a great beer selection, great cocktails, karaoke, live performances, and more. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a welcoming spot for all.

With a ranking of 4.7 stars based on 131 reviews, the customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Here are some key points from the reviews:

Overall, Tiny's Hi-Dive stands out as a must-visit destination in Los Angeles for those looking for a great time in a laid-back setting.

Mal's Bar, Los Angeles#5
What stands out

  • Customers appreciate the amazing experience and chill atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends.

  • The great music and pool table keep guests entertained and add to the overall fun vibe of the bar.

  • The cool staff and great drink prices make Mal's Bar a top choice for those looking for a laid-back yet exciting night out.

Mal's Bar

4.5308 reviews
2331 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90007, United States

Mal's Bar is a popular spot in Los Angeles known for its great beer selection, live music, and casual atmosphere. With a ranking of 4.5 and 308 reviews, it's clear that customers have positive experiences at this bar.

Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing evening with some drinks or looking to enjoy live performances and bar games, Mal's Bar has something for everyone.

Frank 'n Hank, Los Angeles#6
What stands out

  • This bar has a homey family-run vibe with reasonably priced drinks and entertaining activities like darts and pool.

  • It is a local institution since 1933, where you can bring in food from Monty's for a drink.

  • Customers enjoy the eclectic and creative crowd, jukebox, and nooks for small groups to relax and chat.

  • Great place for post-concert drinks with a classic dive bar feel, impressive whiskey selection, and friendly service.

Frank 'n Hank

4.5291 reviews
518 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020, United States

Frank 'n Hank is a popular cocktail bar located in the heart of Los Angeles. This cozy spot offers a variety of great cocktails, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Customers rave about the fast service and bar games available, creating a fun and lively atmosphere for a night out. The bar also features pool tables and darts, providing entertainment for all. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Bigfoot Lodge, Los Angeles#7
What stands out

  • Fun and chill dive bar atmosphere without the dive aesthetics

  • Great happy hour deals on drinks

  • Spacious layout with fun decor

  • Awesome live music on certain nights

Bigfoot Lodge

4.5278 reviews
3172 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039, United States

Bigfoot Lodge is a popular bar located in Los Angeles. Known for its great beer selection and live music, it provides a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere for its patrons.

Customer reviews rave about the fun decor and spacious layout of the bar. The happy hour specials are a hit, offering delicious drinks at affordable prices.

Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a place to unwind after work, Bigfoot Lodge has something for everyone.

Ye Rustic Inn, Los Angeles#8
What stands out

  • Best Buffalo wings in town, but avoid the steak

  • Great pre-game spot with the best wings

  • Good dive bar with decent happy hour and bar food

  • Fantastic wings, especially when ordered regular

Ye Rustic Inn

4.3593 reviews
1831 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Ye Rustic Inn is a popular sports bar located in Los Angeles, CA. Open late until 2 AM on most days, they offer a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. With a ranking of 4.3 stars, customers have left 593 reviews praising the fast service, great beer selection, and karaoke nights at this establishment.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

So if you're looking for a casual spot with a cozy atmosphere to enjoy some delicious wings and drinks, Ye Rustic Inn is the place to be!

Footsies, Los Angeles#9

Footsies

4.4310 reviews
2640 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90065, United States

Footsies · Bar · 2640 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90065, United States

Crane's Bar Downtown, Los Angeles#10
What stands out

  • The spot is known for its chill vibes, but some customers have mentioned incidents with intoxicated staff affecting their experience.

  • Customers praise the friendly bartenders, unique setting in an old basement bank vault, and the variety of spirits and cocktails on the menu.

  • Visitors appreciate the live performances, fast service, and the opportunity to enjoy a drink while listening to a small band.

Crane's Bar Downtown

4.4221 reviews
810 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Crane's Bar Downtown is a hidden gem in Los Angeles, offering a unique experience for those looking to unwind and have a good time. With a 4.4 star rating and 221 reviews, it's clear that customers love the cozy and trendy atmosphere, as well as the great beer selection and cocktails.

Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to have conversations or a lively place to hang out with friends, Crane's Bar Downtown is a must-visit destination in the city.

Drawing Room, Los Angeles#11
What stands out

  • A fun atmosphere to relax and get cocktails

  • Great for night shift workers as they open at 8am

  • Strong drinks and quirky vibes

  • Owners go the extra mile to protect patrons' belongings

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, CA. This dive bar offers a fun and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy some great cocktails. Customers appreciate the fast service and the availability of karaoke and live performances on certain nights.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a casual and trendy spot with a cozy vibe, Drawing Room is the place to be. With a great selection of drinks and a welcoming crowd, it's a perfect choice for a night out.

Back Door Pub, Los Angeles#12

Back Door Pub

4.816 reviews
The Milner Hotel, 813 Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

Back Door Pub · Pub · The Milner Hotel, 813 Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

Monte Carlo Bar, Los Angeles#13
What stands out

  • A proud gay man felt right at home and enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people.

  • Out-of-towners are welcomed with open arms, and the friendly staff, like Mari, ensure a memorable experience.

  • Customers praise the cozy atmosphere and the excellent service provided by the staff, particularly bartender Mari.

Monte Carlo Bar

4.476 reviews
3514 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90020, United States

Monte Carlo Bar is a beloved establishment in the heart of Los Angeles, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all patrons. With a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and spirits, this bar is the perfect place to unwind and socialize. The fast service and great beer selection are just a few highlights that keep customers coming back for more.

Gold Room, Los Angeles#14
What stands out

  • Decent happy hour prices on all drafts

  • Micheladas that feel like home

  • Great ambiance with strong drinks and good music

  • Reasonably priced shots and beer with friendly service

Gold Room

4.0366 reviews
1558 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States

Gold Room is a popular Bar located in Los Angeles, CA. This casual and trendy spot offers a variety of services and features that keep customers coming back for more. From a great selection of beers and cocktails to fun activities like karaoke and live music, Gold Room has something for everyone to enjoy.

Reviews from customers rave about the friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and great selection of drinks. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a lively weekend with friends, Gold Room is the place to be.

Rodeo Room, Los Angeles#15
What stands out

  • Tranquilo and alegre ambiente with good music and cold beer.

  • Super chill little place with friendly staff.

  • Not recommended due to poor service and lack of parking.

  • Small bar with a vibrant atmosphere, good vibes, and cheap drinks.

Rodeo Room

4.077 reviews
1306 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006, United States

Rodeo Room is a popular cocktail bar located in Los Angeles. The bar offers a range of services and features that cater to a diverse crowd of customers. Some of the highlights of Rodeo Room include bar games, fast service, and a great beer selection. Customers can enjoy a casual and cozy atmosphere while sipping on cocktails and beer. The bar is also known for its friendly staff and vibrant ambiance. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Hanks Bar, Los Angeles#16
What stands out

  • A hidden gem in downtown LA with chill vibes and a nice bartender. Great spot for adult beverages and conversations.

  • A historic bar with strong, inexpensive drinks. A unique, off-the-beaten-path location.

  • Reasonable prices and friendly staff make this bar a favorite stop for many customers.

  • Complaints about high prices, unpleasant smells, and issues with the jukebox have been raised by a few customers.

Hanks Bar

4.125 reviews
840 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

Hanks Bar is a popular spot located in downtown LA that offers a casual and cosy atmosphere for customers looking to unwind and enjoy a few drinks with friends. The bar is known for its great beer selection and great cocktails, making it a go-to destination for those seeking a variety of drink options. Customers appreciate the fast service and the friendly staff who create a welcoming environment for patrons.

Some of the customer reviews include:

If you're in the mood for a relaxed evening with good drinks and company, Hanks Bar is a great choice in the LA area.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Golden Gopher 4.5603
#2Frolic Room 4.4850
#3Gold Diggers Bar 4.6255
#4Tiny's Hi-Dive 4.7131
#5Mal's Bar 4.5308
#6Frank 'n Hank 4.5291
#7Bigfoot Lodge 4.5278
#8Ye Rustic Inn 4.3593
#9Footsies 4.4310
#10Crane's Bar Downtown 4.4221
#11Drawing Room 4.3252
#12Back Door Pub 4.816
#13Monte Carlo Bar 4.476
#14Gold Room 4.0366
#15Rodeo Room 4.077
#16Hanks Bar 4.125

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Map of Dive Bars in Los Angeles

Looking to experience the gritty side of Los Angeles nightlife? Check out this map of all the dive bars in the city. From dimly lit watering holes to rowdy neighborhood joints, these spots offer a unique and authentic drinking experience. Explore the hidden gems of LA's bar scene and discover where locals go to unwind after a long day.

How to choose dive bars in Los Angeles

  1. Wide selection of drinks.
  2. Affordable prices.
  3. Laid-back atmosphere.
  4. Local and loyal clientele.
  5. Quirky decor and history.
  6. Live music or entertainment.

Frequently asked questions

What sets dive bars apart from other bars?

Dive bars are known for their relaxed atmosphere, unpretentious approach to drinks, and typically low prices. These establishments usually have a varied selection of beers and often feature simple, no-frills decor. Unlike more upscale bars, dive bars tend to attract a diverse crowd and foster a sense of community among patrons. Most dive bars also lack the flashy signage and trendy aesthetics that characterize more mainstream bars. Instead, they prioritize authenticity and a laid-back vibe, making them popular among those seeking a more down-to-earth drinking experience. Overall, dive bars offer a unique charm that sets them apart from other types of drinking establishments.

Where can I find the best dive bars in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is home to a wide range of dive bars, each with its own distinct atmosphere and offerings. Popular spots include The Roost in Atwater Village, which features a cozy interior and a diverse selection of beers. Further east, The Short Stop in Echo Park is known for its retro decor and late-night dance parties. If you're looking for a more divey experience, check out The King Eddy Saloon in downtown Los Angeles, which has been serving up cheap drinks and live music since 1933. For a beachside option, head to Hinano Cafe in Venice Beach, where you can enjoy a burger and beer while taking in the ocean breeze.

What should I expect when visiting a dive bar in Los Angeles?

When visiting a dive bar in Los Angeles, you can expect a laid-back atmosphere, affordable drinks, and a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike. The service may be casual, but the bartenders are usually friendly and knowledgeable about the drinks they serve. Many dive bars in Los Angeles also offer entertainment in the form of live music, pool tables, or jukeboxes. While the decor may be divey, the overall experience is often lively and fun, making dive bars a popular choice for those looking to unwind and socialize in a relaxed setting.

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