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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in California

Cool cocktail bars

Made for those who seek out cocktail bars that prioritize a distinct, curated vibe.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 1
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 2
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 3
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Speakeasy hidden behind a bakery features Japanese-inspired decor and a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere. Background music includes old J-pop songs, supporting chill conversations in a space with a private lounge and a sand garden. Display of rare Japanese whisky bottles adds unique visual interest.

Creative and delicious cocktails stand out here, especially the Lucky Goat which is highly praised. The bar offers a chic, Japanese-inspired decor and the staff is engaging and accommodating.

A hidden door leads into a speakeasy with a cool back room ambiance. Drinks like the spumoni and chocobo add to the vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing, with attentive service."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious, with some truly unique spins."

"It's a cool hidden bar with a secret door."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

The bar is accessed through a hidden door next to ASA Bakery.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait if you arrive without a reservation.

02
The Wicked Wolf Cocktail Bar + Tea Lounge & Café image 1

Dark, romantic space with an enchanted forest theme and vintage decor creates a cozy, classy vibe. Live jazz and Latin bands bring a lively, relaxed nightclub feel without overwhelming noise. The crowd enjoys intimate conversations and well-crafted cocktails in a welcoming, quieter setting.

Focus on specially curated drinks with careful attention to ingredients. The space features a beautiful design and shifts from a cocktail bar to a café during the day.

Upstairs offers a cool vibe with a dog-friendly lounge and a second floor patio and event room that adds to the experience. The spot works well for daytime meetups and casual drinks with friends.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and spot on."

"It's got such a cool, eclectic vibe and great atmosphere."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

The bar hosts jazz nights every Thursday at 8 PM.

2

Street parking is available, but it can be limited during peak hours.

3

They allow food delivery from nearby restaurants, as they do not serve food.

03
Dusk Bar image 1

Small, modern bar with an open, airy design that shifts to an intimate, moody vibe at night. Live music on Tuesdays creates a relaxed, low-pressure atmosphere for conversation and drinks. The space feels inviting and packed, with no screens and a focus on expertly mixed cocktails and fresh seafood.

Quality drinks stand out here with a focus on craft cocktails. It ranks among the nice cocktail bars in town, offering a solid option for cocktail lovers.

The space features a cool concept and design that stands out. It creates a very cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"The cocktails here are creative and really delicious."

"I loved the cocktails here; they're like art."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

04
The Cordova Bar image 1

Outdoor patio offers fireplaces, heaters, and ample seating for easy conversation at normal levels. Inside features a dark, lively vibe with loud live music and DJs playing a mix from oldies to modern hits. The crowd enjoys a festive atmosphere that suits both relaxed nights and energetic parties.

Outdoor area features fire pits and couches creating a relaxed vibe. Inside, a dive bar atmosphere pairs with a bartender known for being cool and humble.

People are saying

"The bartenders here make amazing, well-made cocktails."

"The drinks here are amazing and expertly crafted."

"The cocktails here are spectacular and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is scarce, so consider using a rideshare service.

2

Karaoke happens every Tuesday night with themed contests and prizes.

3

The bar hosts live music and food pop-ups on many nights.

05
North Light image 1

Bar combines cozy bookstore and vinyl music with intimate atmosphere ideal for deep conversation. Outdoor patio offers large heaters and seating for groups. Cocktails focus on craft quality with a diverse vinyl selection setting a unique vibe.

Loud hip hop music sets a lively tone, which contrasts with the usual quiet vibe expected at a cocktail bar. The drinks fit well with the energetic atmosphere rather than an intimate setting.

Patio offers a cool vibe. Ambiance feels cozy and librarian style.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails were excellent and perfectly crafted."

"It's a cool joint with a gorgeous interior and patio."

"I found it to be a pretty great cocktail bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Monday to Wednesday features an industry night burger combo from 8pm until close.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to secure a seat.

06
Accomplice Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Two main bars face back-to-back in separate rooms, creating a unique layout with open seating. The atmosphere feels cool and sexy with fun bartenders and great music. Cocktails draw inspiration from diverse neighborhoods, offering creative drinks with distinct flavor profiles.

Craft cocktails stay well-made late into the night. The bar offers a cute and charming atmosphere with fun bartenders.

Atmosphere feels cool and sexy with a nice crowd that adds to the vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktails are inventive, well-balanced, and delicious."

"The bar's creative cocktails are inspired by different neighborhoods and personalities."

"The drinks here are so unique and creative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as wait times can reach 30 minutes on weekends.

2

Free street parking is available after 8pm, but check for restrictions.

3

The bar accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but no personal checks.

07
Club 616 image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers live music every night and a spacious outdoor patio with a fire pit and taco vendors. Seating includes booths, bar stools, and lounges inside and outside, creating a relaxed yet chic atmosphere. The place stands out for its unique vibe and well-crafted cocktails.

A cool, hip, retro vibe fills the bar with a romantic and slightly edgy atmosphere. Framed paintings decorate the walls and the music sets a cool tone before the DJ starts.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails were crafted to perfection."

"The cocktails here are crafted with attention to detail."

"The cocktails here are amazing, unique, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough to find, so arrive early.

2

Happy hour runs daily with great drink specials.

3

Live jazz performances happen every Wednesday from 8-11pm.

08
Baby Gee image 1

Bar with 1920s throwback decor and a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere creates an intimate setting. Live jazz music and unique cocktails contribute to a fun, relaxed vibe. Space fills quickly, making it lively and crowded early in the evening.

Chilled out bar with your grandparents tiki basement vibes creates a relaxed atmosphere. The crowd and decor add to the cool vibe that lasts whether staying briefly or longer.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be delicious and creative."

"The cocktails here are unique and exceptional."

"The cocktails are phenomenal, creative, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm with a special menu.

2

The bar gets very busy, especially on Sundays and weeknights.

3

Parking can be difficult to find due to construction in the area.

09
Haberdasher image 1
Cocktail bar

Underground speakeasy with dark lighting and red walls creates an intimate, stylish atmosphere. Jazz music plays softly, supporting a quiet vibe ideal for conversation. Comfortable booths and themed servers add to the authentic prohibition feel.

An underground cocktail bar with an intimate vibe offers exotic drinks and a consistently good experience.

Underground setting creates a cool speakeasy vibe with a lounge atmosphere. Cocktails stand out as really cool and the crowd includes some interesting people.

People are saying

"The cocktails are creative, well-balanced, and thoughtfully put together."

"It's a cozy spot with a really nice atmosphere."

"The speakeasy vibe here is really cool and the cocktails are amazing."

Good to know

1

The bar tends to fill up around 7-8 PM, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is conveniently available right across the street.

3

They offer daily drink specials and around 300 cocktail options.

10
Crafted Coupe image 1

Speakeasy with concealed entrance and brick walls creates an intimate, big-city feel. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cool, welcoming both locals and tourists with outdoor seating and multiple levels to explore. Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails, enhancing the friendly, laid-back vibe.

Cozy, speakeasy vibes create a cool atmosphere. The spot feels accessible and works well to start or end the night.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and make great drinks."

"It's a cool, cozy vibe away from the busyness."

"I thought I knew the best craft cocktail bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to secure space.

3

You can bring pizza from Caffe Calabria, but not drinks.

11
Convoy Music Bar image 1

Speakeasy bar with a secret alley entrance offers an intimate setting and eclectic vibe. Loud, top-tier music plays through large cabinet speakers, creating an audiophile's dream atmosphere. Crowded space fills with guests enjoying bold, creative cocktails and unique decor.

Speakeasy-style lounge with a subtly marked entrance in an alley creates a hidden vibe. Cocktails here echo the style of tiny Tokyo bars and notable Michigan spots like The Last Word, offering a unique nightlife experience.

Music strikes a perfect balance between cool and loud, keeping energy high without overwhelming. A laid-back vibe and a welcoming host create a cozy, unassuming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are expertly curated and delicious."

"The cocktails here are amazing and beautifully crafted."

"Finding the hidden entrance to this cocktail bar felt like a fun adventure."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferred to ensure a comfortable experience.

2

The entrance is located in a back alley, which may be hard to find.

3

Street parking is the only option available.

12
Still O.G. & Alter Ego Cocktail Club image 1

Speakeasy-style bar splits into a laid-back vinyl lounge and an intimate, reservation-only cocktail club with a 1920s Gatsby vibe. Atmosphere blends throwback decor, vinyl DJ sets, and creative cocktails featuring unique ingredients. Space suits both casual gatherings and exclusive date nights with a chill, exclusive ambiance.

Offers a sophisticated atmosphere ideal for an evening out. The cocktail bar and restaurant deliver an outstanding experience.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are excellent and beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are expertly handcrafted and opened me to new possibilities."

"This cocktail bar's swanky, elevated atmosphere makes you feel transported."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential for the intimate space at Alter Ego Cocktail Club.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 5pm to 7pm with $5 cocktails and skewers.

3

Without a reservation, entry may be denied due to capacity limits.

13
The Lobby Cocktail Lounge & Kitchen image 1

Chic cocktail bar with an open-air patio and an upstairs lounge that feels like a Traphouse. Atmosphere stays lively with live DJs from midweek through the weekend, blending club energy without dancing. Crowd enjoys carefully crafted specialty cocktails and a comfortable space for conversation.

Creative cocktails stand out with unique flavors and presentation. The owner brings passion and a cool vibe that shows in the attentive service and overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the appetizers and pasta."

"Their craft cocktails are creative and taste amazing."

"I thought the drinks here were super cool and quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is drinks only, running from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The comedy club hosts live shows on the last Wednesday of each month.

3

Bottomless mimosas are $25 per person for 90 minutes.

14
Sobre Mesa image 1
Restaurant

Chic interior with beautiful decor and perfect lighting creates an intimate atmosphere. Music matches the vibe, supporting conversation without overwhelming. Signature cocktails and tapas, especially mezcal drinks and beef empanadas, stand out in a sophisticated setting.

Small groups find this spot ideal for drinks. It offers a trendy atmosphere and serves as a reliable choice for cocktails.

Dimly lit ambiance with vibrant accents sets a cool and inviting atmosphere. The music and crowd add to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with vibrant, tangy flavors."

"The vibe and decor create a cool, inviting atmosphere."

"I found the cocktails to be strong and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The Queer and Couture Oakland Pride event is a highlight, showcasing local culture.

15
ZOË Cocktail Bar & Bites image 1

Open space with high ceilings creates a spacious, comfortable setting. Live DJs spin on multiple nights, fueling a lively, energetic atmosphere where music gets people dancing. The vibe blends elements of sports bar, dive, and club, making it crowded and loud but also fun and stylish.

A nice little cocktail bar with a great atmosphere. It suits starting your night, winding down, or celebrating a special occasion.

Transformation from its original state gives the place a cool vibe. It serves as a landing spot for groups with great drinks and good energy for chilling or happy hour.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so fun and make delicious drinks."

"The staff at the Cocktail Bar went above and beyond for us."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday to Friday, with great drink specials.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos with no cover charge.

3

Karaoke night is every Thursday, starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

16
Death & Co Los Angeles image 1

Dark, dimly lit space with speakeasy vibe and candlelit tables creates an intimate, lively atmosphere. Phenomenal craft cocktails draw a crowd that enjoys strong, spirit-forward drinks. A pop-up basement bar and picture booth add unique, playful touches to the experience.

Offers a higher end cocktail experience with a focus on crafted drinks. The atmosphere suits those seeking a refined cocktail bar setting but may not meet all expectations for upscale venues.

Low-key, New York-style bar with a basement-like atmosphere focused on the bar area. Music stays cool but not too loud, letting conversation flow alongside cool cocktails and sexy vibes.

People are saying

"The drinks here are creative, balanced, and beautifully presented."

"It's got this cool, sexy, underground speakeasy vibe."

"I thought it was the best cocktail bar."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly recommended before visiting to secure a seat.

2

Expect a waiting room with a full bar menu if you arrive early.

3

Cocktail prices are on the high side, averaging $15 or more.

17
Left Door image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with cozy rooms and intimate seating offers a sophisticated vibe reminiscent of old-school NYC bars. Live DJs energize the space on weekends, blending trendy decor with a secretive lounge atmosphere. The layout includes multiple rooms above a historic sports bar, creating a unique, swanky setting.

An intimate, stylish speakeasy with an effortlessly cool vibe. Drinks and food lean toward the high end, matching the space's chic atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, sophisticated setting with dim lighting."

"It's a cool speakeasy with a dim, cozy, and intimate vibe."

"Emma's service made our cocktail bar experience outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to their popularity.

2

Walk-in customers may have to wait for a table or hover around.

3

Expect to pay about $20 for two martinis at this establishment.

18
Test Pilot image 1
Cocktail bar

Small cocktail bar blends old school tiki vibe with modern twists and refined decor. Moody lighting and 90s hip hop create an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere that grows livelier late at night. Plenty of comfortable indoor and outdoor seating supports social groups and casual chilling.

Focuses on rum and tiki drinks with an old school tiki vibe. Offers a hip atmosphere for cocktail enthusiasts.

Cool vibe stands out with trendy atmosphere and fun drinks. The place invites staying longer to enjoy more of its great service.

People are saying

"The craft cocktails here are incredibly well balanced and delicious."

"It's a cool place with a fun vibe and great drinks."

"It's a great cocktail bar for rum and tiki vibes."

Good to know

1

Expect heavy crowds on weekend nights, leading to longer wait times.

2

The bar allows outside food from the taco truck nearby until 11pm.

3

The bathroom is located at the back, which can be crowded.

19
DAMN, I MISS PARIS image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with elegant decor and classic spirit-forward cocktails offers a low-lit, chic atmosphere that feels clubby and lively after 10pm. Music ranges from romantic and good to very loud, making conversation difficult at peak times. Space feels cozy and intimate, suited for mingling, dates, or small groups.

Vibe matches NYC craft cocktail bars with a cute setting. Drinks lean toward the usual rather than interesting or unique.

A fab aesthetic sets the vibe with a mural showing jazzy illustrations of dance and music. Drinks come with cool twists on classic recipes.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are gorgeous with luxe finishings."

"The doorman gave us a warm welcome at the Bar."

"I found the cocktail bar adorable and enjoyed its energy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups due to limited seating.

2

The cocktail menu features unique drinks crafted by individual bartenders.

3

Standard bar food like chips and chicken tenders is available for snacks.

20
Frankie's image 1

Cozy whiskey bar with brick walls and ceiling-high bookcase shelves creates a speakeasy vibe. Comfortable booths and a patio overlooking the street offer relaxed seating options. Craft cocktails feature hand-made infusions and unusual ingredients, served in great glassware.

Creative drinks stand out with unique combinations and flavors. The cocktail bar offers a solid selection but shows room for growth in drink preparation skills.

Unique drinks and postcards create a distinct vibe. The place feels like an old mod bar with cool aesthetics.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be the best I ever had."

"I found this cocktail bar had superb mixologists and creative drinks."

"The aesthetics here are super cool, like an old mod bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at Frankie's runs on Thursdays with unique drink specials.

2

Children can sit anywhere if food is served, except at the bar.

3

Frankie's does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

21
Steep LA image 1
Tea house

Tea house blends calm ambiance with vibrant energy during evening hours, featuring a lovely patio and tea-infused cocktails. Space feels warm and inviting with a straightforward, unpretentious design. Crowd shifts from relaxing tea drinkers to lively groups as night progresses.

Offers a full cocktail bar with a unique and delightful experience. Serves a variety of cocktails that stand out.

Staff show deep knowledge of cocktails and teas, creating a calm and cool environment. The vibe stays packed and lively, with seating inside and outside.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the tea, it was well-steeped and perfectly balanced."

"The vibe here is pretty cool, with delicious music playing."

"You have to try the ube cocktail; it's visually stunning and delicious."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances occur on Friday nights in August.

2

Ceremonial teas stop being served at 4:00 p.m.

3

Parking costs $5 and is gated, located right next to the venue.

22
Sycamore Den image 1

Small bar with an old Western theme and a cozy cabin feel offers a laid-back yet energetic vibe enhanced by live music and a delightful patio. The atmosphere blends vintage decor with tasty cocktails and free popcorn, creating a unique and inviting space.

Cocktails appear on the menu but the spot is not a dedicated cocktail bar. It offers a casual drink selection rather than a focused cocktail experience.

Chillin vibe sets the tone with cool decor throughout. The bartender adds to the atmosphere with a very cool presence.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make the whole experience fun."

"The vibes here are incredible and the decor is cool."

"The bartenders here are amazing and the crowd is great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7pm with great prices on drinks.

2

Live music occurs every Thursday, with additional performances on weekends.

3

Trivia night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with no entry fee.

23
BlindPig Speakeasy Lounge image 1

Small, discreet cocktail bar styled with Chinese-inspired design and unique, creative glassware. Intimate and cozy atmosphere with a password entry adding exclusivity. Drinks feature distinctive Chinese flavors and visually appealing presentations.

Creative drinks stand out with a cute vibe. The cocktail bar offers an experience but ranks below other San Francisco cocktail bars like Moongate Lounge and Comstock Saloon.

A speakeasy bar with a Chinese style sets a cool vibe. The bartender adds to the atmosphere, and drinks feature unique ingredients though they lack complex Asian flavors.

People are saying

"These cocktails are so creative and brilliantly delicious."

"It's a really cool spot to hang out."

"The cocktail bar has amazing and creative drinks."

Good to know

1

A password is required to enter; check Instagram for the latest code.

2

The drinks cost around $18 each, typical for a speakeasy.

3

There is no food available; only creative cocktails are served.

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