If every city has a flavor, LA’s is bold, a little eccentric, and never the same twice. You’ll find cocktails with cult followings, unlikely combos that somehow work, and drinks that feel more like a performance than a pour. This isn’t a list of safe picks—it’s a guide to the kind of cocktails that make LA, well… LA.

Death & Co.
Signature Drink: Year of the Trees

Nestled in the Arts District, Death & Co. brings its New York pedigree to LA with a menu that’s both inventive and refined. The “Year of the Trees” is a smoky mezcal-based cocktail that showcases the bar’s commitment to complex flavors and meticulous presentation.

Source: Instagram

Tom Bergin’s Public House
Signature Drink: Irish Coffee

A staple in LA since 1936, Tom Bergin’s is renowned for its Irish Coffee. This classic concoction combines Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey, simple syrup, and dark roast coffee, topped with chilled Irish cream. It’s the perfect pick-me-up, offering warmth and a gentle kick.​

Source: LAist

Musso & Frank Grill
Signature Drink: Martini

Steeped in Hollywood history, Musso & Frank Grill has been serving its iconic martini since 1919. Favored by legends like Charlie Chaplin and Marilyn Monroe, their martini is a testament to timeless elegance. Served with two olives and a splash of vermouth upon request, it’s a drink that transports you to a bygone era.​

Source: Los Angeles Times

The Flintridge Proper
Signature Drink: Gin Flight

Home to the world’s largest gin selection, The Flintridge Proper offers an unparalleled gin tasting experience. With over 200 varieties, their gin flight allows patrons to explore a diverse range of botanicals and flavors, including their own Flintridge Native Botanical Gin.​

Source: Los Angeles Daily News

E.P. & L.P.
Signature Drink: Kickstart My Heart

This West Hollywood hotspot offers panoramic views and a dynamic atmosphere. The “Kickstart My Heart,” blending Grey Goose, watermelon, agave, lemon, and rhubarb, is a vibrant cocktail that matches the venue’s energy.

Source: Instagram

Bar Flores
Signature Drink: Clarified Coconut Punch

Located in Echo Park, Bar Flores exudes a beachy, cantina-inspired vibe. The Clarified Coconut Punch, infused with tarragon and almond, delivers a refreshing and easy-to-sip experience, perfect for LA’s sunny days.

Source: Instagram

The Corner Door
Signature Drink: Mezcallin

Culver City’s The Corner Door presents the Mezcallin, a creative spin on the classic Penicillin cocktail. This version incorporates mezcal and pineapple gomme, offering a smoky and sweet profile that’s both complex and refreshing. It’s a testament to the bar’s innovative approach to mixology.​

Source: The Minty

Tiki-Ti
Signature Drink: Ray’s Mistake

A Los Feliz institution, Tiki-Ti is famed for its tropical drinks and vibrant atmosphere. Ray’s Mistake, the bar’s most popular concoction, was born from an accidental mix-up in 1968. Featuring a “super secret flavor,” botanical liqueurs, passion fruit, and dark Coruba rum, it’s a delightful and mysterious tiki classic.​

Source: Los Angeles

In a city that reinvents itself by the minute, these drinks have earned their stripes. Each one tells a story—a little LA time capsule served up with ice. If you haven’t tried them yet, the city’s not done surprising you.
 

Los Angeles has long been obsessed with sushi and ramen, but Japanese drinking culture is so much more than that. The city is quietly home to a thriving scene of Japanese bars that bring Tokyo’s izakaya spirit stateside. Here’s where to grab a cold beer, pour a shot of shochu, and nibble on some karaage in true after-work style.

1. The Izaka-ya by Katsu-ya
8420 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

A stylish offshoot of the renowned Katsu-ya brand, The Izaka-ya by Katsu-ya offers a modern izakaya experience in a chic setting. The menu features signature dishes like Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño, and Seared Albacore with Crispy Onion. Complement your meal with a selection from their extensive sake list or one of their creative cocktails. 

Source: Patch

2. Izakaya Hachi
1880 W Carson St, Ste A, Torrance, CA 90501

Izakaya Hachi brings the authentic flavors of Tokyo to Torrance. Known for its seasonal grill dishes, fresh oysters, and comforting hot pot soups, the menu is crafted around their signature dashi stock, enhancing the umami in every dish. Pair your meal with a curated selection of sake and Japanese beers in a warm, inviting atmosphere. 

Source: Oishii Desu “It’s Delicious”

3. Izakaya Sasaya
11613 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025

A cozy Westside gem, Izakaya Sasaya offers a diverse menu that includes bento boxes, sashimi, sushi rolls, and kushiyaki (char-grilled skewers). With options for vegetarians and meat lovers alike, it’s a perfect spot for casual dining or takeout. Don’t miss their rotating specials and hot ippin dishes. 

Source: emylogues – WordPress

4. KINJIRO
424 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Located in Little Tokyo, KINJIRO is an artisanal izakaya known for its premium Japanese craft beers and sake. The menu features a variety of traditional and modern dishes, including seared uni, wasabi potato salad with ikura, and seared kanpachi with spicy ponzu. It’s a sophisticated spot for those looking to explore refined Japanese flavors. 

Source: Facebook

5. Nanban-Kan
11330 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025

A staple for yakitori enthusiasts, Nanban-Kan specializes in expertly grilled skewers, offering a variety of meats, pescatarian, and vegan options. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it an ideal place for gatherings. Pair your skewers with a selection from their sake and beer offerings. 

Source: The Infatuation

6. Robata JINYA
8050 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

Robata JINYA is renowned for its robata (charcoal-grilled) dishes, offering a menu that includes homemade tofu, crispy rice with spicy tuna, and eggplant with miso. The warm ambiance and extensive drink menu, featuring sake and Japanese whiskies, make it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. 

Source: Robata JINYA

7. Sakura House
13362 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066

Sakura House is a traditional kushiyaki-style izakaya specializing in grilled skewers and Japanese tapas. Popular dishes include chicken meatballs, quail egg maki, and Cajun chicken wings. The casual setting and selection of shochu and sake make it a beloved spot for locals seeking authentic flavors. 

Source: Tripadvisor

8. Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori
18517 S Western Ave, Gardena, CA 90248

A lively and communal atmosphere defines Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori. The menu is skewer-heavy, featuring options like chicken gizzard, pork belly, and beef tongue. Complement your meal with a cold beer or a glass of sake, and enjoy the energetic vibe that makes this spot a go-to for yakitori lovers.

Source: Shin-Sen-Gumi

9. TORIHEI Yakitori Robata Dining
1757 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90501

TORIHEI offers a refined take on yakitori and robata dining. Known for dishes like grilled squid (ika-yaki), pork belly, and chicken wings, the restaurant emphasizes precise technique and elegant presentation. Their thoughtfully selected sake menu complements the smoky flavors of the grilled dishes.

Source: The Infatuation

10. Izakaya Osen
3503 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Located in Silver Lake, Izakaya Osen offers a modern take on traditional Japanese pub fare. The menu features a variety of dishes, including premium sushi, sashimi, and innovative Japanese fusion items. With a selection of fine Japanese sakes and a cozy atmosphere, it’s a great spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Source: Koreatown Youth and Community Center

You don’t need to hop on a plane to find a bar where the staff calls your name, the skewers hit just right, and the sake keeps coming. These Japanese bars and izakayas are proof that LA can do Tokyo nights with its own West Coast spin. Pick your place—and kanpai to finding your new favorite local.
 

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The Harbor Room isn’t just a bar—it’s a local legend. Nestled in Playa del Rey’s tight-knit “Jungle” neighborhood, it claims the title of the smallest bar in Los Angeles County and ranks among the three smallest bars in the United States.

Tucked behind a row of closely spaced buildings at 195 Culver Boulevard, the Harbor Room fits into a wedge-shaped building so compact that only seven bar stools can fit inside. That space also includes a narrow counter and ledges along the walls—no tables, no frills, just straightforward intimacy.

Image Source: Vintage Los Angeles / Facebook

Inside the Bar That Time Forgot

Inside, dive bar character is magnified. A vintage jukebox, a classic cash register, and collages of photos and caricatures of regulars line the walls. Set to rock and soul music, it feels like stepping into someone’s well-loved living room more than a public space (timeout.com). The jukebox still charges three songs for a dollar—a nostalgic detail patrons often praise.

Drinks Without the Drama

Despite its size, the drinks pack real punch. Visitors often highlight the strong cocktails and crisp beers served without pretension and at wallet-friendly prices. Locals praise it as one of the best dive bars in the area, consistently citing the Harbor Room’s no-nonsense pours and laid-back vibe.

A Bar Run on Familiar Faces

What really defines the Harbor Room isn’t what it serves, but who’s there. Current owners Bob and JoAnn Blye have run the place since 1978, and the bartender has stayed the same for decades. The walls tell their story: photos of locals, family members, and regulars who’ve been leaning on the same bar for years.

Still Standing, Still Tiny

In a city where many bars chase trends or Instagram clout, the Harbor Room stands still. Its minimalist approach, cash-only policy, and space‑economy design all reinforce one thing: authenticity. Every inch of room is intentional, from the painted blue trim outside to the tight arrangement inside that forces conversation among strangers turned friends.

Image Source: The Infatuation

The Harbor Room may be small in square footage, but it’s huge in personality. As perhaps the tiniest commercial bar in Los Angeles County, it proves that character isn’t determined by size but by community, consistency, and atmosphere. If you’re ever in Playa del Rey, tracking down this tiny maritime gem is worth it—not for the Instagram moment, but for the experience itself.

Header Image: Scoundrel’s Field Guide

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The Los Angeles wine scene is packed with character, boasting shops that offer everything from top-shelf classics to wild, experimental bottles. Whether you’re looking to try something different, support local producers, or get recommendations on rare wines, these LA spots will have you covered with their distinctive collections and community vibes.

Domaine LA
6801 Melrose Ave, LA

Known for its focus on natural wines, Domaine LA is a haven for unique French and Italian selections. Owner Jill Bernheimer’s curated collection ensures you’ll find gems at accessible prices. A must for anyone interested in organic and sustainable wines.

Source: Goop

Vinovore
616 N Hoover St, LA

This shop, dedicated to women winemakers, showcases natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. Each bottle is paired with a fun note about its origin, making it a fantastic spot for those who want their wine purchases to support a cause.

Source: Vinovore Eagle Rock

Wally’s Beverly Hills
447 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills

For those looking for selection and quality, Wally’s stands out with a collection of thousands of highly rated wines. With locations in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, this shop is a go-to for both rare finds and high-scoring wines under $100.

Source: Seven Fifty Daily

Stanley’s Wet Goods
9620 Venice Blvd, Culver City

Culver City’s wine haven, Stanley’s, is the place to discover an international array of wines, from Uruguayan and Eastern European bottles to local Californians. With selections that cover every varietal, it’s perfect for those who love exploring new wine regions.

Source: Stanley’s Wet Goods

Helen’s Wines – Fairfax
412 N Fairfax Ave, LA

Part of the Jon & Vinny’s restaurant group, Helen’s Wines brings a modern touch to wine shopping with categories like “Pizza Pairings” and “Best for Brunch.” This shop’s sophisticated selections make it a great choice for LA’s foodie crowd.

Source: Helen’s Wines 

Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1314 7th St, Santa Monica

Esters offers an easy online ordering experience with unique categories like “Chillable Reds” and “Fruit Comes First.” Their custom bundles and friendly text support make choosing wine a breeze, whether for a gift or a dinner party.

Source: Esters Wine Shop & Bar

Flask & Field
767 S Alameda St #180, Los Angeles

Located in Row DTLA, Flask & Field provides a laid-back setting with about 30% natural wines, plus a variety of other organic selections. Known for its community-focused atmosphere, it’s an inviting spot to find new bottles and get personalized recommendations.

Source: Bridge and Burn

Eataly 
10250 Santa Monica Blvd

Known for its Italian imports, Eataly’s wine shop, Eataly Vino, is the place to explore Italian vintages and unique aperitifs. Frequent tastings and meet-the-producer events offer an immersive wine experience and the chance to learn from industry pros.

Source: DoLa

These wine shops are more than just places to buy a bottle—they’re local hubs for exploring different wine styles, meeting people with similar tastes, and supporting unique selections you won’t find elsewhere. Dive into LA’s diverse wine scene and let your palate explore something new!
 

Los Angeles is a city that thrives on creativity, and that extends to its nightlife. Forget your standard watering hole—some bars in LA are designed to transport you to another time, place, or even a galaxy far, far away. Here are five spots that offer a drinking experience unlike any other.

1. Good Times at Davey Wayne’s: 

A 1970s House Party Behind a Fridge Door
Hidden behind what appears to be an old refrigerator door, Good Times at Davey Wayne’s is a bar that feels like stepping into a time machine straight to the 1970s. Once inside, you’ll find a living room-style setting complete with shag carpets, vintage furniture, and a backyard with boozy snow cones. The music is all vinyl, the vibe is nostalgic, and the drinks are crafted to match the era. It’s a place where disco and funk reign supreme, and where you might just forget you’re in modern-day LA.

Source: Los Angeles

2. The Scum and Villainy Cantina: 

A Star Wars Cantina Come to Life
Originally a pop-up, The Scum and Villainy Cantina became so popular that it turned into a permanent staple for Star Wars fans and sci-fi lovers alike. Designed to resemble the famous Mos Eisley Cantina from A New Hope, this bar features blue drinks, costumed bartenders, and occasional visits from stormtroopers. The dimly lit ambiance, complete with intergalactic décor, makes you feel like you’ve walked into another world. Bonus: guests can vote on the music that plays through their phones.

Source: Facebook

3. Clifton’s Republic: 

A Multi-Level Wonderland of Themed Bars
Clifton’s Republic is not just a bar—it’s a multi-sensory experience. Originally opened in 1935 as a cafeteria, it has since transformed into a sprawling, multi-story venue with different themed areas. There’s a grandiose forest room with a towering artificial redwood tree, a Gothic-style bar with antique furnishings, and even a secret tiki bar hidden behind a mirror. Every corner of Clifton’s tells a different story, making it one of the most unique bars in the world.

Source: Los Angeles

4. The Edison: 

A Steampunk Speakeasy in a 1920s Power Plant
Housed in what was once LA’s first-ever power plant, The Edison is an underground bar that combines industrial-era aesthetics with vintage glamour. Exposed turbines, metal staircases, and dim candlelight set the mood, while burlesque performers and live jazz transport you to the roaring ‘20s. The space exudes an air of mystery, sophistication, and just the right amount of decadence, making it a perfect spot for a sultry night out.

Source: Los Angeles

5. The Blind Barber: 

A Hidden Cocktail Lounge Behind a Barbershop
At first glance, The Blind Barber appears to be just an ordinary barbershop where customers can get a classic cut and shave. But if you walk past the barber chairs and through an unmarked door, you’ll find yourself in a dimly lit, cozy speakeasy with craft cocktails and an inviting atmosphere. The contrast between the mundane storefront and the lively lounge hidden behind it makes the experience feel like a well-kept secret.

Source: Blind Barber

Why just grab a drink when you can step into another world? LA’s most unusual bars offer more than just great cocktails—they deliver a full-blown experience that keeps you coming back for more.
 

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