ABOUT TOWN | 10 LA COCKTAIL BARS
we’re picky when it comes to our drinking establishments, especially if we’re going to spend $12+ on a cocktail. and that’s why we solicited the los angeles cocktail king, , for his recommendations on the best bars for making out. talmadge owns the cocktail operation so we know he won’t lead us astray.
| koreatown
Just look for the Bar sign on 6th in Koreatown. Sophisticated, yet unpretentious cocktails, big, cozy leather banquettes and a little side alley for sneaking in kisses.
| highland park
It’s easy to miss this gem on busy York Blvd, but well worth the U turn, when you drive past it. It has a vaguely 60’s feel with Tiki Inspired cocktails and dark corner booths to get lost in…
| koreatown
The speakeasy located inside The Normandie Club. You’ll need reservations, an open mind and an adventurous palate. But you won’t be disappointed. The cocktails and service will make you feel swanky and romantic.
SEE ALL 10 AFTER THE JUMP…
| downtown
The original. Low lights. Soft music. Excellent cocktails. You’ll feel hidden away from the world here…like it’s just the two of you.
| silverlake
Hands down the most beautiful room for imbiding in Los Angeles. The stylish design alone should make you and your date feel sexy, but the cocktails will insure it.
| pasadena
Located in the back of a truly old school Pasadena restaurant (The Raymond), Walking in, you’ll feel like you stumbled onto a well kept secret. You have. Maybe the most inventive cocktails in LA and since you don’t know anyone in Pasadena, feel free to indulge in a little PDA.
| hollywood
Don’t let the Southern back porch vibe throw you. The cocktails as good as any in Los Angeles and the unusual layout provides a lot of little nooks for necking.
| hollywood
Cooler than cool bowling alley and cocktail lounge. Take a leather gaming table for two and play kiss poker.
| hollywood
Fantastic Parisian vibe, great cocktails and a fireplace. Get there early and sip by the fire so you can suggest heading home for a nightcap, you know, before it gets so noisy and crowded
| beverly grove
The circus murals may be a little strange, but get here early and get a back booth. The cocktails are superb and when the bar fills up, the lights dim and your euphoria kicks in, it will all make sense. If you’re even paying attention at that point.
photos , , , , , ,
interested in other LA tips? read our favorite coffee shop, date spots, ice cream, and hotels.
I really liked Messhall Kitchen. They had great cocktails and I enjoyed their outdoor space.
and a great fried chicken sandwich 🙂
I love this list! There are so many places on here that I have not tried! I can’t believe that I’ve never been to 1886 in Pasadena! The Varnish is such a cute place!
-Helen
Pinning this baby for future trips to LA!
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Kate @ Tell Me Tuesday DIY blog
This is fantastic! I will be in LA for a few days in August and am on the hunt for some great bars, thanks!
Thanks for the tips! I will be making a note of this list for whenever I get to visit LA.
By the way, the cocktail photography is great! Nice work.
These look like some great choices!
Kari
I’ll have to check these out! You should come check out some of the cool spots on the westside…we’ve got some great ones. Seventy7 in Culver City is really cool..tucked into a back alley, speak easy vibe, FANTASTIC cocktails…and velvet wallpaper. Could it get any better?
love that. i will check it out. we are east siders, so we know quite a few more on this side but always love the west side recs! thanks!
I love Tiki Tuesdays at Sonny’s! Recommend trying their Napali Death Toll. I look forward to trying some of these other spots!
Thanks for the recommendations. I’m going to be trying out The Walker Inn speakeasy this week for an adventurous work meeting!
Thanks for the suggestion, There are so many places on here that people have not tried!