We’ve been hustling and bustling so much lately, it’s time for a Hollywood night out. Whether it’s work, school, or family that’s keeping you busy, we’ve assembled a list of the best hollywood spots to lighten up and cool down on the weekend. Whether you need a quiet speakeasy for conversation, or a rowdy watering hole for dancing and sing-a-longs, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading below for a list of the must-visit bars in Hollywood!
1. Tramp Stamp Grannys
Location: 1638 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
If you loved Darren Criss on Glee and American Crime Story, then you have to head to his piano bar off Hollywood & Cahuenga. Get your voice ready, cause singing is a part of the culture at this neighborhood weekend spot. From Abba to Mary J. Blige, lively bartenders and tipsy patrons are singing their hearts out every weekend. Be sure to plan a trip between Thursday-Saturday, since they are closed during the week! And just like their name implies, their drink menu offers innovative cocktails with playful names. The “Lady in the Streets” tequila cocktail is our favorite. And before you leave one of the most epic bars in Hollywood, be sure to snap a few photos with friends in their photo booth on the porch outside.
The LA Girl’s Pick: “House-infused Earl Grey Shots” ($10 a pop) with a side of potato chips
2. No Vacancy
Location: 1727 N Hudson Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
This exclusive speakeasy is located in a restored, 20th century Victorian house on Hollywood & N Hudson. The epitome of prohibition-era bars, the dimly-lit spot has a secret entrance and a firm dress code. Off of Hollywood blvd, you will find an eerie ‘No Vacancy’ sign flickering in the distance. Walk toward it to find an understated staircase that guides you to this hidden gem. But as mentioned, be weary of their dress code. Stick to upscale attire and stray away from bright colors and athletic wear. Who knows what you will find inside of this bar in Hollywood, because burlesque shows, a tightrope walker, and jazz music are possibilities from Thursday to Saturday. Enjoy classic cocktails like their whiskey sour and old fashioned from the bar top or in red leather and dark wood booths.
The LA Girl’s Pick: “Lemon Drops” and “Espresso Martinis”
3. Bar Lis
Location: 1541 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
This beloved rooftop bar and lounge sits atop the Thomspon Hotel on Sunset & Wilcox. Visited by younger tourists, locals, and influencers alike, Bar Lis offers jazz nights with cocktails and canapés during the week, as well as disco and house nights on weekends. We love this bar in Hollywood. Like a trip to the French Riviera, this sun-soaked rooftop spot has epic views and vibes that anybody can enjoy. The drinks like their bourbon-soaked “Bardot” or Tito’s “Les Lemonade” are refreshing enough to start the night. And if you wanted some small plates, treat yourself to some sharable, smoked salmon dip at a lounge table facing the Hollywood Sign.
The LA Girl’s Pick: “Parisian Sunset” (Sipsmith Gin, Basil, Passionfruit Purée)
4. Desert 5 Spot
Location: 6516 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Unlike any other bars in Hollywood, if you’re a fan of music festivals in the Coachella Valley or of ranch-style architecture, you gotta head to Desert 5 Spot for beloved taqueria-style food, western-inspired drinks, and epic L.A. views. Located atop the Tommy Hollywood Hotel (Hyatt), on Selma & Wilcox, this pioneer-inspired rooftop bar has glowing neon signs, cozy booth seating, and cacti. Be sure to wear your trendy cowboy attire to stay on theme, (athletic wear not allowed at night!), and check out their weekly line dancing classes on Wednesdays.
The LA Girl’s Pick: “Ring of Fire” (mezcal, prickly pear, ginger honey)
5. Sunset & Vinyl
Location: 1521 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Looking for a low-key spot to end the night? For a hidden bar in Hollywood, step inside this unpretentious speakeasy atop 800 Degrees Pizzeria for spirit forward cocktails and old-school vibes. Upon entering the pizzeria off Sunset & Vine, you will find a staircase next to the “Pick-up Orders” sign that guides you to this 1940’s-style speakeasy with cushy chairs and vinyl record-clad walls. Sunset & Vinyl is known for their cocktails, and although they run a little pricey, the expert craftsmanship and world-sourced ingredients make up for the price tag. It’s a 10/10 spot to chat with your girls, especially if you need a break from all the clubbing and dancing down the street.
The LA Girl’s Pick: “Monkey Wrench” (Monkey 47 Gin, amaro, green chartreuse)
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For other things to do in LA, check out the best sporting events to go to this spring and summer here.
Feature image from Desert 5 Spot
