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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown LA's best

Hidden Gem Cocktails

There is a quiet satisfaction in finding a drink in a place that feels like it belongs only to you.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Florentín Rooftop Bar image 1
Florentín Rooftop Bar image 2
Florentín Rooftop Bar image 3
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Rooftop space offers breathtaking city views with both indoor and outdoor seating equipped with heaters. The atmosphere stays chill yet energetic, driven by live DJs and craft cocktails that showcase creativity and quality. Guests enjoy Mediterranean-inspired small bites and artisanal pizzas while soaking in the vibrant vibe.

Bladimir crafts perfectly balanced cocktails with precision. Drinks like the old fashioned, prickly pear margarita, and lychee cocktail come out incredibly well made and next level in flavor.

A rooftop bar tucked away in Downtown offers a quiet spot away from the usual crowds. It stands out as a hidden gem with a relaxed vibe and unique setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here were amazing and divine."

"It's a chill spot with amazing skyline views."

"I found this place to be an awesome hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Entry is through a parking lot in the alley, which can be tricky to find.

2

Expect a DJ on weekends after 9 pm for a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6 pm on weekdays.

02
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1

Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

Sake cocktails stand out with their amazing flavor profiles. The Peach Blossom offers a refreshing touch that complements meals well.

Feels like a hidden gem with great potential to grow in popularity. Known for hand rolls and yakitori that stand out.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"I loved the Sake cocktails; they were amazing."

"These hidden gems, especially the handrolls, are insanely fresh and melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

03
Spring St Bar image 1

Small modern bar offers laid-back, cozy vibe with expertly curated drinks including craft beers and artisanal cocktails. Atmosphere encourages socializing and relaxation with friendly staff and a well-rounded menu that suits diverse tastes.

Cocktails feature careful craftsmanship with seasonal flavors and premium ingredients. They balance unique, flavorful recipes with reasonable pricing and offer small experimental samples for feedback.

Offers a craft beer selection that stands out in a busy city. Serves as a true hidden gem for those exploring local bars.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive, delicious, and well-crafted."

"You've got to try the craft beer flights; the staff helps you pick."

"The cocktails are inventive, delicious, and a work of art."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Saturday afternoons with great drink specials.

2

Parking is limited to street parking; consider using Uber.

3

Expect to stand when it gets busy, especially during peak hours.

04
The Wolves image 1

Vintage space with early 1900s architecture creates a speakeasy vibe featuring live performance stage and multiple balconies. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy with dreamy lighting and a relaxed, cool edge. Crowd enjoys unique cocktails and classic comfort food in a beautifully designed setting.

Creative cocktails feature smoked milk, salmon skin, and mushrooms for unique flavors. The Agua Buena stands out, served in a fashionable tiny glass with flawless craftsmanship and warm, personalized service.

Feels like a speakeasy bar tucked away in the streets. Offers a delightful journey back in time and stands out as a hidden gem in its neighborhood.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The bar's atmosphere is beautiful and unique."

"It felt like a hidden gem, taking me on a delightful journey back in time."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait for a table.

2

Parking in Downtown Los Angeles can be difficult; plan ahead.

3

Happy hour offers $2 off old fashioned cocktails.

05
The Upstairs Comedy Club Los Angeles image 1

Small venue with intimate seating and clear stage views creates a cozy, electric atmosphere. Moody lighting and excellent cocktails complement the lively energy from up-and-coming and notable comedians. Free parking and easy access add to the comfortable, well-thought-out experience.

Moody lights set the scene for excellent cocktails, with the Punchline Punch standing out. The spot is easy to find even after a few drinks.

Offers a hidden gem vibe away from overpriced, overrated clubs. Features a cozy comedy club setting that stands out for its intimate atmosphere.

People are saying

"I saw great comics and enjoyed delicious drinks at the comedy club."

"The cocktails here are dangerously strong and excellent."

"The Hidden Gems here are killer sets from up-and-coming talent."

Good to know

1

The club has convenient free parking available for visitors.

2

There is a two-drink minimum requirement per person at the club.

3

Notable comedians frequently perform at this venue, including big names and up-and-comers.

06
Good Clean Fun image 1

Speakeasy-style wine bar offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with heaters and blankets on the patio. Atmosphere blends intimate warmth with groovy DJ music, creating a unique and exclusive vibe. Natural wine selection stands out alongside exceptional Italian-inspired food.

Offers a solid selection of cocktails alongside chilled red wines and beers. Drinks lean toward a high-end style with a relaxed vibe.

Offers high-end cocktails in a chill vibe setting. Stands out as a hidden gem in downtown LA.

People are saying

"Ian and the staff provided fantastic service and a welcoming environment for wine."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and a great choice."

"It's a true hidden gem for high-end cocktails and a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The venue hosts monthly wine tastings featuring local winemakers.

3

Parking is available across the street for a small fee.

07
Temaki society image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar with open bar-style seating and modern decor creates a cozy but noisy atmosphere. High top tables and a wrap-around counter attract a casual crowd rather than special occasions. Known for fresh, high-quality hand rolls with inventive twists, it offers a quick, affordable sushi experience.

Cocktails come straight from the bar with great taste and are definitely worth trying.

Offers a hidden gem experience with unique, lesser-known qualities. Stands out for its distinctive charm that surprises visitors.

People are saying

"The hand rolls here are outstanding, easily some of the best I've had."

"The handrolls here are amazing, with fresh seafood and crisp nori."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the handrolls are the best."

Good to know

1

The bar only opens at 5 pm.

2

The establishment is 21+ after 5PM, which is important for potential diners to know.

3

There is a parking lot in the same block that requires payment, located right next to the Pershing Square metro stop.

08
Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a spacious outdoor patio and live music duo that create a chill, classy atmosphere. The space features beautiful decor and a cool vibe with pleasant music, though volume varies. It suits both dates and groups, with fresh sushi and an excellent sake collection.

Creative and visually appealing cocktails pair well with sushi. Chanel crafts finest cocktails that match the enjoyable ambiance and DJ music.

Fresh sushi stands out here with quality that surprises in a downtown setting. The spot feels like a true hidden gem for sushi lovers.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh and flavorful; it's amazing."

"You have to come for happy hour; the cocktails are buy one get one free."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem for fresh sushi."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 PM to 7 PM every day.

2

Late-night happy hour is from 10 PM to 2 AM.

3

They offer a buy 1 get 1 special starting at 5 PM daily.

09
Ristorante Per L’Ora image 1
Italian restaurant

Historic Italian restaurant occupies a beautifully restored former bank with stunning interiors and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Early opening hours attract a business crowd, while the rooftop offers great views and drinks. The space combines artful decor with a sense of hidden charm.

Cocktails feature great mixed drinks crafted by a bartender skilled in Katty Griffith style. They offer a visual experience alongside exquisite flavors.

Known for its cozy atmosphere, this spot stands out as a true hidden gem in the city. It offers a quiet, tucked-away vibe that feels special and inviting.

People are saying

"I loved the cozy vibe and Italian food here."

"It's like a cozy slice of Europe, a true hidden gem."

"I thought the cocktails were exquisite and visually appealing."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available but can be expensive.

2

Aperitivo hour runs from 5-6 pm with discounted wine.

3

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-6 pm.

10
Bike Shed Moto Co image 1

Motorcycle-themed restaurant combines open air space, British decor, and a central bar to create a laid-back, fun vibe. It hosts a barbershop, tattoo parlor, and retail shops, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Spacious seating with leather sofas and high ceilings adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Cocktails feature a great menu with drinks made with care. Bartenders craft delicious mocktails with the same attention as regular cocktails.

Several spots stand out as hidden gems with unique charm and appeal. These places offer a distinct vibe that feels special and less known.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the wagyu beef burger."

"I thought their cocktails were great."

"I considered this place a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 5-7 PM with great deals.

2

They host special events regularly, so check in frequently for updates.

3

MotoGP watch parties and bike nights are popular events held here.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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