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Loved by locals

Trendy cocktail spots in California

Sipping cocktails in a space that feels current is the only way to mark the end of the week.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Budonoki image 1
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Restaurant

Intimate Japanese izakaya with cozy atmosphere and refined design featuring heated patio and creative cocktail presentation. Lighting and lively soundtrack create an electric vibe that blends fun with attention to detail. Signature drinks come in animal-shaped mugs, adding a playful touch to the experience.

Darkly lit setting creates a trendy vibe without feeling pretentious. Ambiance stays vibrant and engaging throughout.

Cocktails feature creative presentation with playful elements like a bear-shaped mug and edible purple flowers. They stand out as amazing and a highlight alongside pressed sushi.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, full of flavor and beautifully presented."

"I found the cocktails to be delicious."

"The sweet potato with miso butter is a standout side."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially for peak hours.

2

A 4% service charge is added to all bills for operational costs.

3

Street parking is the only option available, and it can be difficult to find.

02
Azabu image 1
Sushi restaurant

Upscale sushi restaurant with beautiful murals and high ceilings creates an elegant atmosphere. The vibe is lively and welcoming, attracting groups for social dining. Drinks include smoked old fashioned cocktails prepared with table-side flair.

Upscale and lively, the place has a trendy vibe with classy decor that stands out.

Cocktails feature a robust menu with options like the Sumoki pineapple cocktail that pairs well with food. Drinks consistently match the quality of the sushi and appetizers.

People are saying

"The sushi here is amazing, truly the best I've ever eaten."

"The sushi here is bomb, with beautiful presentation."

"The cocktails here were just as great as the food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available from Sunday through Thursday.

2

The restaurant features a live band every Thursday night from 10:30 pm to 1 am.

3

Parking costs $10.

03
The Vibe image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with modern decor and vibrant colors. Music and clean lines create an energetic vibe that suits brunch well. Spacious seating and a full bar add to the inviting experience.

A very trendy vibe shapes the atmosphere here. The aesthetic stands out and complements the overall experience.

Cocktails stand out for being well made and delicious. The revamped drink menu features creations by Tony, a cocktail genius, and includes fantastic mocktails and coffee.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"It's so trendy with big windows and a bright, chill atmosphere."

"I found the cocktails here to be so well made."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait on weekends during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider taking an Uber.

3

Happy hour runs from 8am to 10am on weekdays with special pricing.

04
Katsin Restaurant and Dining Bar image 1

Upscale restaurant with mythical decor and a golden tree centerpiece creates a visually striking setting. Loud music and live entertainment featuring dancers and singers energize the atmosphere. Creative cocktails and standout dishes like Australian Wagyu steak add to the fine dining experience.

Ambiance blends classic elegance with modern chic, creating a timeless yet trendy vibe. Cocktails include high-end, professional drinks with unique touches like bubbles on top.

Marat crafts expertly balanced cocktails with great flavor and presentation. He makes a wide range, from Italian classics like Negroni to trendy drinks with a bubble on top.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, beautifully presented, and full of flavor."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and full of flavor."

"This place is totally Instagram gold, with stunning decor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during peak times.

2

Valet parking is available, but expect a fee.

3

Dress code is upscale casual; avoid shorts and flip-flops.

05
Lucia LA image 1
Restaurant

Stylish interior features golden mirrored entrance, sculptural booths, and a palm-topped bar creating a unique atmosphere. Live DJ spins a blend of afrobeats, dancehall, and R&B, setting a lively and energetic vibe. The space attracts those seeking a vibrant night out with modern decorations and a trendy feel.

A stylish interior sets a trendy tone with a mix of elegance. The crowd is well-dressed, adding to the lively, modern vibe.

Craft cocktails stand out for their expert preparation and inventive flavors. Creative options like the Agave Pina Colada and cocktails with pearls offer fun, balanced experiences.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"The cocktails here are excellent and thoughtfully prepared."

"It's a trendy spot with a gorgeous, stylish interior and a vibrant crowd."

Good to know

1

The restaurant turns into a lounge after 9 pm and stays open until 2 am.

2

DJ performances occur on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekend dining to avoid long wait times.

06
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Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music and a curved bar top for cocktail service. The space feels classy and meticulously maintained, blending trendy lighting with engaging energy. Cocktails feature Japanese whiskeys and sake, complementing fresh sushi and unique vegan options.

Vibrant atmosphere with trendy music and stylish decor sets a hip and moody vibe throughout the space.

Craft cocktails feature inventive, fresh, and rootsy flavors with a great selection of spirits. The Spicy ลŒwa cocktail stands out, served with intentional pouring and skilled hospitality at a curved bar top.

People are saying

"These date spots have incredible flavors and textures."

"The bar staff is so attentive and knowledgeable about the menu."

"The atmosphere here is so trendy, with great music and lighting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available every day, including weekends, from 4-6 PM.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills without prior notice.

3

Credit card payments incur an additional 3% fee.

07
Palmilla Cocina y Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with retractable roof and island-like giant table offers an open-air dining experience with Cabo vibes. Atmosphere is lively and loud, featuring perfect lighting and music with a DJ, creating a cozy yet energetic mood. Comfortable seating includes a communal bar table, attracting a crowd that enjoys socializing and people watching.

Lively atmosphere pairs with unique decor and a nice interior to create a trendy dinner spot.

Expertly crafted cocktails stand out with a skillful bar staff behind the counter. The impressive tequila selection complements the menu well.

People are saying

"You have to try the crab enchiladas; they're amazing."

"Leo's expertly crafted cocktails really elevated our night."

"The service here is excellent and accommodating for disabled guests."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often crowded.

2

Valet parking is available for $8, making access easier.

3

The restaurant turns into a bar at night with house and electronic music.

08
La Popular Claremont image 1

Contemporary decor with dim warm lighting and a large outdoor patio decorated with string lights creates an elegant, inviting space. Live music plays regularly, adding energy, though game audio can be loud inside. The atmosphere feels welcoming and trendy, attracting a busy crowd early in the evening.

Space feels super pretty with a clear effort to be trendy. Design and vibe show a strong push toward modern style.

An eclectic cocktail menu features a great list of mezcals beyond the usual Espadรญn. The Desert Rose cocktail offers a unique, complex blend with a perfect smoky mezcal balance. Drinks suit a relaxed afternoon atmosphere.

People are saying

"The margaritas here are truly yummy and worth every penny."

"I found the house cocktails to be awesome and refreshing."

"The queso fundido here is so tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

2

Expect wait times of 45 minutes to an hour during busy nights.

3

Happy hour features $5 margaritas and $2 tacos on Tuesdays.

09
Strange Beast image 1
Restaurant

Small, eclectic space with Kaiju decor and neon accent lighting creates a mod, quasi-bar atmosphere. Dim lighting and chill vibe suit late-night eats and casual drinks. Unique sushi and trend-setting cocktails attract a crowd looking for creative flavors and a fun setting.

Great sushi pairs with a trendy bar atmosphere. The trend-setting house cocktails add a unique touch.

Creative cocktails feature Japanese whiskey-inspired craft flavors with unique, strong profiles. The bar offers expertly prepared drinks and accommodates special requests.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be solid and addictive."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"It's a trendy spot for great sushi."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, making it a fun midweek activity.

2

Ramen night is on Sundays, featuring special ramen dishes.

3

Reservations are not required for karaoke, but arrive early for a good spot.

10
Laya Restaurant image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor dining area offers a European vibe with Middle Eastern touches and thoughtful design. Music from a DJ creates a lively atmosphere while a fire pit adds a cozy spot for conversation. Seating is comfortable and the setting feels like being in another city.

Stylish decor creates a vibrant atmosphere that feels very trendy. Food uses cheap ingredients but prices are high, matching a typical LA trendy spot.

Creative and expertly mixed cocktails pair well with the food. The fire pit offers a cozy spot to enjoy drinks and conversations.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, thanks to the helpful and friendly staff."

"The cocktails here have a trendy, vibrant atmosphere and stylish decor."

"The atmosphere here is trendy and vibrant with stylish decor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it's not complimentary.

2

Laya Restaurant offers Halal and vegan options.

3

Expect small portion sizes for the price.

11
Perch image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop bar with a breathtaking cityscape view and live music that enhances a relaxed, quiet atmosphere. The space feels crowded, requiring reservations due to limited capacity. Cocktails stand out as a distinctive feature complementing the setting.

A mix of intentional dishes and a trendy, eclectic crowd shapes the vibe. Some menu items lean toward being overly curated to fit trends rather than focusing on flavor.

Cocktails here are well balanced and high quality. The rooftop bar adds an elegant vibe while sipping drinks against the city nightscape.

People are saying

"The rooftop view here is amazing, especially at night."

"The cocktails here have stunning skyline views."

"This trendy spot has the most breathtaking rooftop views."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary due to high demand, especially for brunch and dinner.

2

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

3

Live music occurs from 6-10pm, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

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