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.
- Wide selection of drinks
- Affordable prices
- Laid-back atmosphere
- Local and loyal clientele
- Quirky decor and history
- Live music or entertainment
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.
- 1. Golden Gopher
- 2. Frolic Room
- 3. Gold Diggers Bar
- 4. Tiny's Hi-Dive
- 5. Mal's Bar
- 6. Frank 'n Hank
- 7. Bigfoot Lodge
- 8. Ye Rustic Inn
- 9. Footsies
- 10. Crane's Bar Downtown
- 11. Drawing Room
- 12. Back Door Pub
- 13. Monte Carlo Bar
- 14. Gold Room
- 15. Rodeo Room
- 16. Hanks Bar

1. Golden Gopher
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight different aspects of the bar:
- 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.
Overall, Golden Gopher seems to be a great choice for those looking for a laid-back yet vibrant bar experience in Los Angeles.

2. Frolic Room
Information and Reviews
- 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.

3. Gold Diggers Bar
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight:
- 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.

4. Tiny's Hi-Dive
Information and Reviews
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:
- 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.
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.

5. Mal's Bar
Information and Reviews
- 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.
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.

6. Frank 'n Hank
Information and Reviews
- 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.

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

8. Ye Rustic Inn
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- 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
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!

9. Footsies
Information and Reviews

10. Crane's Bar Downtown
Information and Reviews
- 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.
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.

11. Drawing Room
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- 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
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.

12. Back Door Pub
Information and Reviews

13. Monte Carlo Bar
Information and Reviews
- 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.

14. Gold Room
Information and Reviews
- 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
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.

15. Rodeo Room
Information and Reviews
- 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.

16. Hanks Bar
Information and Reviews
Some of the customer reviews include:
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
Servicios Relacionados