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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Dive bars in Central LA

A dim room and a stiff drink are all that is required to unwind.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated May 2026
01
Power House Bar image 1
Power House Bar image 2
Power House Bar image 3
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Small dive bar with cozy booths and eclectic art offers a laid-back vibe with live jazz and punk music. Back patio hosts smoking and darts, perfect for casual drinks and relaxed talks. Regulars and bands create a raw, unpretentious atmosphere full of character.

An iconic dive bar dating back to 1946, it strikes a balance between a local joint and a clean, inviting hideout. The spot works well for casual drinks and relaxed conversations after nearby events.

People are saying

"This bar has a cool, ridiculous, and lively atmosphere."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and attentive."

"Karaoke here was an absolute blast."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Karaoke takes place every Thursday night with a two-drink minimum.

3

Trivia Thursdays start at 8 PM, offering a fun challenge for teams.

02
The Kibitz Room image 1

Dive bar with classic vibe and 1970s decor hosts intimate live music on a tiny stage. Venue blends old and new styles with high-quality sound for a lively, unpredictable atmosphere.

A solid dive bar with a dive-iest vibe in an unexpected spot. It features live music most nights and keeps a classic, unpretentious atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the bakery to be unbelievable, like food of God."

"I had a delicious pastrami sandwich that was so large."

"I found it to be a great dive bar with an awesome vibe."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Tuesday night after 9:30pm at The Kibitz Room.

2

The Kibitz Room is attached to a 24-hour deli, offering food options anytime.

3

Parking is available but fills up quickly in the busy neighborhood.

03
Frolic Room image 1
Cocktail bar

Classic Hollywood dive bar with a vintage 1940s vibe and dim-lit interior feels like a wild speakeasy. Hirschfeld drawings and iconic ceiling lights add to the historic atmosphere. Jukebox fuels a lively yet laid-back energy.

Classic dive bar vibe fills the space with a historic and old school feel. The spot stands out as a wild speakeasy with rich history and a cool, original atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a cool, historic dive bar with a lot of old Hollywood vibes."

"It's a historic dive bar with a cool, classic atmosphere."

"It's a cool, old dive bar with a lot of history."

Good to know

1

The total cost for drinks is around $12, which is reasonable for LA.

2

There is no food available at the Frolic Room, only drinks.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for tips.

04
The Woods image 1
Cocktail bar

Dark, cozy spot with a minimalist 70s vibe and low lighting sets a chill mood. Features big screen TV and a DJ spinning late 80s and early 90s hip hop and R&B. Comfortable booths and a conversation pit blend dive bar roots with a trendy edge.

Offers a higher-end dive bar feel with a big screen TV, a DJ in the evenings, and board games. Maintains a neighborhood bar vibe that blends classic dive elements with a slightly trendy edge.

People are saying

"The inside felt really dark and moody."

"The DJ made it feel like home with the friendly crowd."

"I found this place to be a perfect dive bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until late with great prices on drinks.

2

Live music is featured on weekends, attracting a lively crowd.

3

Trivia night is a fun event that happens weekly.

05
Drawing Room image 1
Cocktail bar

Small dive bar with dim cozy lighting and a jukebox playing hits offers a true old school dive bar vibe. Cash-only policy draws a mix of regulars and night shift workers, creating a laid-back atmosphere without judgment.

Offers a true old school dive bar vibe with a cash-only policy. Feels very cool and authentic for those seeking a classic dive experience.

People are saying

"It's a cool dive bar with a dark, sexy vibe."

"It's a dimly lit, cozy dive bar with a great atmosphere."

"I found the cocktails here to be more of a dive bar."

Good to know

1

The bar is cash only; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Parking is usually available in the lot or on the street nearby.

3

Karaoke happens on Sunday nights and attracts a busy crowd.

06
The Three Clubs image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with old school atmosphere and a cabaret-style room hosts live music and karaoke nightly. Dive bar vibe shines with music focus and a chill, welcoming space. Cozy back room and free popcorn add a casual, comfy touch.

A hole-in-the-wall spot with a wicked dive bar vibe. Music is the main focus here, with little else to distract.

People are saying

"I loved the atmosphere and sound for the live music."

"The atmosphere here is super cool and chill."

"The vibe at this dive bar is really cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Comedy shows are held live on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM.

2

Sunday night karaoke starts at 8 PM with no cover charge.

3

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find, especially on weekends.

07
The Roger Room image 1

Speakeasy bar blends dark ambiance with a gritty vibe for a unique feel. Cozy, posh setting meets laid-back, authentic dive bar charm. Small, loud space with unique cocktails and New York style flair invites lively chats and connections.

Smells like a classic dive bar inside with a gritty, unpolished vibe. The atmosphere feels authentic and laid-back.

People are saying

"This bar has a really cool vibe and remarkable energy."

"The cocktails here are craft and delicious."

"This dive bar has a friendly crowd and nice bartenders."

Good to know

1

Parties of 5 or more should call ahead to ensure seating availability.

2

The bar does not serve food, focusing solely on cocktails.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating is available, with smoking allowed outdoors.

08
Ye Rustic Inn image 1
Sports bar

Rustic sports bar offers a classic dive bar vibe with great burgers and good prices. Multiple TVs and a lively crowd create a communal atmosphere. Comfortable cubicles and outdoor seating add to the relaxed neighborhood pub feel.

Classic dive bar vibe with great burgers and good prices. Feels like a typical spot but leans toward average overall.

People are saying

"The wings here are the best I've had in LA."

"The beer here is great with the Buffalo wings."

"It's got all the vibe and charm of a classic dive bar."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Trivia night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Expect longer food wait times on weekends, potentially up to an hour.

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Central LA, Los Angeles

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