Uncover the Top 5 Bars to Visit in Los Angeles

Navigating the Los Angeles nightlife is no small feat with its myriad of options. Whether you're after the best Mexican food Los Angeles has to offer, or you're on a quest for an exquisite cocktail, this night out in Los Angeles guide narrows down Los Angeles' best bars. 

The 5 must-visit bars in the City of Angels

1. The Red Lion Tavern

Address: 2366 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039, United States

Situated at 2366 Glendale Blvd in Silverlake, The Red Lion Tavern has been a fixture in Los Angeles nightlife for years. The bar offers an array of German beers and a menu that covers the basics well. Among the selections are Dinner Salad, which includes tossed greens, boiled egg, and sliced tomato, and Goulash Soup, a spicy German stew.

For group dining, the Sausage Platter stands out. It features three types of German sausages – bratwurst, knackwurst, and smoked bockwurst – cut into bite-sized pieces and accompanied by pickles, peppers, and mustard. Lighter fare like Potato Pancakes and Flammkuchen, a German flatbread, are also available. 

The Red Lion Tavern remains a reliable choice for those looking for an authentic yet casual dining experience in LA.

2. The Wolves DTLA

Address: 519 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, The Wolves DTLA sets itself apart through its distinctive atmosphere and complex cocktails. The interior is adorned with period antiques from across America, and the establishment boasts the unique feature of indoor and outdoor balcony dining on Spring Street. The ambiance strikes a balance between elegance and accessibility, making it an inviting gathering spot.

When it comes to drinks, The Wolves offers specialty cocktails that blend intriguing flavors. Highlights include the Tiger's Milk, a concoction of pineapple, mango, lime, habanero, and milk clarification, and the Let Them Talk, which mixes mushroom, lavender, celery, cream sherry, and lemon. For those who favor a more classic approach, the 24 Karat Gold cocktail combines gin with carrot, ginger, quince, and lemon.

Overall, The Wolves DTLA offers an elevated yet approachable experience, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in downtown Los Angeles' burgeoning cocktail scene.

3. La Cuevita

5922 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042, United States

If you're on the hunt for the best Mexican food Los Angeles serves, look no further than La Cuevita. The setting is intimate, with stone walls and subdued lighting that create a rustic atmosphere.

The bar's cocktail menu is worth noting for its innovative combinations. The "Summer in the South" mixes madre mezcal, Evan Williams bourbon, simple syrup, basil liqueur, lime juice, and cucumber. The "Whattamelon" blends Milagro Blanco tequila, simple syrup, lemon juice, and watermelon juice. If you prefer a cocktail with a layered flavor profile, the "Marjorie Blanco #2" combines Tanteo Blanco tequila, Vida mezcal, Naranja orange liqueur, lemon juice, Lilet Blanc, and St. George absinthe verte.

In summary, La Cuevita provides a specialized focus on tequila and mezcal offerings, backed by a compelling narrative and a distinct, intimate setting. It stands as a quality destination for those eager to explore the depth of Mexican-inspired cocktails in LA.

4. The Thirsty Crow

2939 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States

Located on Sunset Blvd in the Silverlake area, The Thirsty Crow is a venue known for its curated list of delicious cocktails and a relaxed setting that has a local feel. The bar opts for a vintage aesthetic, creating the perfect atmosphere conducive to both casual gatherings and intimate conversations.

The cocktail list includes several notable offerings. The Blackberry Walnut Extravaganza is a complex mix featuring Old Overholt Rye, blackberries, egg white, mint, lemon, simple syrup, and black walnut bitters. The Silverlake Spritz lightens things up with a combination of Prosecco, Select Aperitivo soda, and an orange garnish. For those seeking something on the bolder side, the Madre Mezcal Negroni brings together Madre Mezcal, Campari, Carpano Antica sweet vermouth, and orange zest.

In summary, The Thirsty Crow offers a well-rounded cocktail menu in a setting that captures the laid-back feel of its neighborhood. It's a solid choice for those looking to explore the LA bar scene further.

5. The Silverlake Lounge

2906 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States

Located in the heart of the vibrant Silverlake neighborhood, The Silverlake Lounge merges the worlds of casual dining and nightlife. With its unpretentious ambiance, this venue offers something for everyone and a menu that strikes a balance between pub favorites and healthier options.

When it comes to food, the lounge serves a variety of pizzas that capture different regional styles. Their New York Pizza Slice is a nod to the classic, thin-crust variety that has been a staple in the Big Apple for decades. For a different take, they offer a 10" Detroit Vegan Pizza, which incorporates tomato, squash, zucchini, onion, garlic, and caper, topped with arugula and a splash of fermented chili oil.

Silverlake Lounge offers casual high-quality dining, perfect for exploring LA's diverse culinary scene with a great slice.

Conclusion

When it comes to food in Los Angeles, these venues don't shy away, delivering everything from the best sausages to vegan pizzas and complimentary drinks. While not covering Chinese cuisine, LA's diverse culinary scene is worth further exploration.

In addition, you can find some of the best views in Los Angeles that are definitely worth exploring.  Spaces depending on your preference range from intimate hideaways to expansive balconies. LA offers a range of boutique hotels for those looking to extend their evening into a luxurious overnight stay.

LA, where you can bar-hop, stay in boutique hotels, and enjoy dog-friendly beaches – something for everyone. Cheers to finding your new favorite spot in the City of Angels.

Also read Vegan Restaurants Los Angeles: Top 5 Spots to Try

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