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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown LA

Cocktails and nightlife

A night out with a cocktail in hand is the only way to fully embrace the energy of the city after dark.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Upstairs Comedy Club Los Angeles image 1
The Upstairs Comedy Club Los Angeles image 2
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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.

Comedy shows feature up-and-coming talent and hilarious comedians testing new material. The club offers convenient free parking and comfortable seating with strong drinks.

People are saying

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

"You can see huge names trying out new jokes during the nightlife here."

"The cocktails here are dangerously strong and excellent."

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.

02
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.

Nightlife features good bar and club music with a mix of cocktails like the Cosmopolitan. The vibe can feel off due to conflicting club music that clashes with the interior design.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

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

"The nightlife here feels like stepping 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.

03
Flamingo Bar image 1

Retro tropical pink decor creates a vibrant, spacious bar with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Music features great 80s hits and sets a cool, Miami-like vibe. Crowds gather around the bar, making it a lively spot for LGBTQ-themed events and casual drinks.

Cocktails feature tropical themes and strong flavors. The Speedboat Martini stands out as a spirit-forward option with a coconut wash that adds body and depth.

A welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to host groups like book clubs. Staff are accommodating and friendly, creating a relaxed vibe for socializing.

People are saying

"This bar's atmosphere is super cute and chill."

"The food here is delicious, with perfect wings and juicy burgers."

"The nightlife here is amazing; the staff are so accommodating and friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM.

2

Expect longer wait times at the bar during happy hour due to high traffic.

3

Street parking is available, but it may require a short walk.

04
Casa Ipanema image 1
Restaurant

Large space with beautiful decor and a tropical vibe creates an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. Phenomenal DJs and a fire dancer keep energy lively with top-notch house music and captivating performances. Guests enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant setting that blends dining with entertainment seamlessly.

Caipirinhas stand out, especially the passion fruit version. The Leblon cocktail also features prominently with a delicious taste and a great selection overall.

Loud music sets a private club atmosphere with Brazilian trance beats. The tropical lounge design adds a cool vibe that makes going out afterward unnecessary.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The drinks here are great, especially the passion fruit caipirinha."

"I thought the cocktails were outstanding, especially the caipirinhas."

Good to know

1

Fire dance performances start at 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for weekend events.

3

The fire dance show lasts about 15 minutes and is a highlight of the evening.

05
Shoo Shoo Baby image 1

Bar offers a 40s-themed interior with dim lighting and romantic candlelight vibes. Live jazz and burlesque performances create an energetic, speakeasy atmosphere. Crowd is local and unpretentious, making it suitable for date nights or casual hangouts.

Craft cocktails stand out for being creative and inventive. Mezcal cocktails work well here, and the bartender shows deep knowledge about every drink and ingredient.

Lots of lounge seating and dim lights create a relaxed vibe. A lounge section can be reserved for groups, and there is some space for dancing, though it is not a club.

People are saying

"The bartenders here make amazing, curated drinks."

"The cocktails here are creative, inspiring, and inventive."

"The DJ played popular music and the atmosphere was great."

Good to know

1

The bar doesn't serve food, but food trucks are available outside.

2

Bring cash to tip the performers in the glass jar.

3

Happy hour lasts until 8pm with discounted drinks.

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.

Joining the wine club offers great value and is a popular choice for locals interested in nightlife.

People are saying

"The food and wine pairings here are perfect."

"The food and natural wine selection here are top-notch."

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

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
The Stowaway image 1

Bar offers live jazz music in a dark, intimate setting with vintage 1930s speakeasy vibes. Two rooms create distinct moods: one for live bands and another with a DJ and space for dancing. Atmosphere feels old New York City with cozy booths and a lively energy.

Friendly bartenders craft really great cocktails with care. Drinks consistently come out amazing and well-made.

A landmark lounge offers a cool comedy club atmosphere. A nearby door leads to a more dance club vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the dark, intimate live music room."

"The bartender made really great cocktails."

"The nightlife here has excellent talent performing."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover charge for live music events.

2

The bar closes early at 12:50am instead of the advertised 2am.

3

Parking is limited, with street meters and pay lots nearby.

08
Caรฑa Rum Bar image 1

Small, dark bar with dim lighting and an elegant design creates a cozy, intimate setting. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and suitable for meetings before 10 PM to lively with loud DJ music after. Features include a cigar space, live Latin music, and a notable rum selection.

Unique rum cocktails stand out with fun flavors. Ordering at the bar and sitting in a booth suits enjoying drinks and conversation.

Dark and small space creates an intimate vibe for drinks. A rum club offers special hours and cigars. The DJ spins salsa and Latin music mixed with reggaeton and popular club hits.

People are saying

"The rum-based cocktails at this bar were amazing."

"The nightlife here has a warm vibe with great music."

"Their unique rum cocktails blew my mind."

Good to know

1

Happy hour allows guests to avoid the membership fee before 8 pm.

2

Membership is required after 8 pm, costing $30 a year.

3

Members can bring three guests for free each visit.

09
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown by IHG image 1

Skyscraper hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views from its upper floors and lobby. Spacious rooms and an outdoor pool oasis create a relaxing atmosphere amid city noise. A well-equipped gym and a lounge with a steady flow of laptop users add to the dynamic yet comfortable vibe.

Bartenders like Linh and Agustine craft refreshing cocktails with care and remember guests by name. The poolside setting adds to the relaxed vibe while enjoying drinks like the lemon drop cocktail.

A 70th-floor lounge offers a relaxing atmosphere with afternoon drinks and breakfast. Staff provide exceptional service from valet to lounge.

People are saying

"The hotel's views from the high floors are spectacular."

"The nightlife offers spectacular views from high floors."

"The cocktails here offer truly breathtaking views."

Good to know

1

Access to the Club Lounge on the 70th floor includes breakfast, happy hour, and all-day snacks.

2

Breakfast is served from 6:30 to 10:30 am daily.

3

Happy hour in the Club Lounge runs from 5:30 to 7:30 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.

Big screen events like Moto GP create a lively vibe during club gatherings. The lounge area offers awesome seating and a great atmosphere for relaxing or working on Saturdays.

People are saying

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

"It's a cool spot for motorcycle enthusiasts and a hub for bikers."

"I thought their cocktails were great."

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.

11
The Association image 1

Lounge features dark ambiance with upbeat music from a dynamic DJ set that keeps people dancing. Cocktail classes add an interactive element, while seating is limited mostly to bar and paid areas. The space balances immaculate vibes with enough room to stand and socialize.

Cocktail classes run here with bartenders who take their time to prepare fantastic cocktails. Booking happens through Eventbrite and the classes offer a fun, attentive experience.

An upbeat lounge with good music and a great DJ creates a lively club atmosphere. The bouncer's attitude suggests a focus on exclusivity rather than a casual vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktail classes here are really fun."

"The DJ set here was dope."

"The nightlife here was dead, with no one outside or inside."

Good to know

1

You can reserve a table at The Association using Open Table.

2

Thursdays feature Hip Hop / R&B music events.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

12
Mrs. Fish image 1
Japanese restaurant

Underground Japanese restaurant with aquarium ceiling creates a relaxed, elegant vibe. Live music and DJs add vibrant energy without overpowering conversation. Unique menu and decor offer a distinct dining experience.

Cocktails stand out with a great selection and pair well with tasty appetizers. Drinks like the cocktail with salmon sushi offer a melting mouthfeel.

Large club-like space fills with live music that carries well. Music plays at nightclub volume with heavy bass, making it excessively loud.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"I loved their craft cocktails; they were amazing and well balanced."

"It's a cool lounge with a great whiskey bar for nightlife."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking costs $17.57 before tip, with no street parking available.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted sushi options.

13
The Delphi Downtown LA image 1

Rooftop bar and pool offer stunning views and a sophisticated jazz atmosphere. Spacious rooms feature unique layouts with large windows and modern interiors. Nighttime noise from nearby parties and street activity creates a lively downtown energy.

Downstairs lounge offers great cocktails that stand out more than the rooftop bar. Cocktails show excellent taste and presentation with clear thought put into each drink.

Upstairs turns into a nightclub with a DJ after 9 pm, mainly on Friday nights. Downstairs offers lounge and bar areas for a quieter vibe. Having the club inside means no worries about driving or parking.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so accommodating and helpful with my requests."

"The nightlife here turns into a nightclub with a DJ after 9 pm."

"The cocktails here are superb and taste great."

Good to know

1

Jazz Night happens every Thursday with live performances starting at 8pm.

2

The hotel transforms into a nightclub on Friday nights after 9pm.

3

Brunch is lively on Saturdays and Sundays, attracting a crowd.

14
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.

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

A rooftop lounge offers a relaxed spot to enjoy a drink and chat. It creates a great setting for conversation and makes the night feel special.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails here have stunning skyline views."

"The rooftop lounge offers amazing views for nightlife."

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.

15
The Continental Club image 1

Cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe and vintage decor creates a dark, lounge atmosphere where people mingle casually. Live jazz and DJ sets provide top-notch music in a compact, stylish basement setting. The space balances classy and punk styles, offering a unique blend of energy and chill.

Classic cocktails feature prominently with a decent menu offering a solid variety. Drinks are generally quite good and suit casual celebrations.

A speakeasy vibe with 1920-1940s decor sets a dark, lounge atmosphere. Live music spans blues, rock, country, and jazz with local and national acts, creating a chill and quality night out.

People are saying

"The live music and salsa parties make for amazing nightlife."

"I love the live jazz they have on Thursdays."

"The cocktails here have a cool speakeasy vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at 415 S. Main Street, with cheaper options behind Banco Popular.

2

Jazz night happens every Thursday with free cupcakes from Big Man Bakes.

3

Salsa and bachata lessons occur every Monday evening at the club.

16
Hotel Figueroa - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt image 1

Vintage architecture blends with modern chic decor to create a quiet, cozy atmosphere that feels like a mini sanctuary. Spacious rooms offer clean, comfortable spaces while pool and rooftop areas provide pleasant outdoor retreats with jasmine scents and ample loungers.

Bar director Milosz crafts custom cocktails and welcomes outside non-alcoholic elixirs. Drinks are beautiful, original, and taste wonderful.

A stunning lounge offers excellent drinks and cozy seating with fireplaces and long tables equipped with power outlets. The pool area adds an oasis of relaxation with a surrounding lounge space.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff were so nice and made me feel at ease."

"The rooms are tiny, so pack light for your overnight stay."

"The cocktails here are served by the friendliest staff."

Good to know

1

California has a Destination fee that adds to the hotel bill.

2

Expect an additional $50 parking fee despite claims of free parking.

3

The hotel does not have a proper gym facility as advertised.

17
Zaya image 1
Restaurant

Large bar area with plenty of seating and small intimate tables creates a cozy setting. Live music and a vibrant Latino bartender add energy, while the atmosphere stays pleasant but stuffy due to poor air circulation. The venue blends elegant decor with a cosmopolitan vibe for a lively night out.

Well crafted cocktails include a bourbon-based drink and a lemon drop-inspired tequila cocktail. The bartender Oscar makes perfect mixed drinks like Lemon Love and Cinnamon Skin that complement the food well.

Upstairs lounge offers comfortable couch seating but can get a bit loud. The nightclub focuses on jazz and R&B, with food and service that stand out, though maintenance seems overlooked.

People are saying

"The live music here creates a really polished, downtown vibe."

"Oscar's energy made the cocktails amazing."

"The nightlife here is a jazz and R&B lounge with awesome food."

Good to know

1

Salsa and bachata dancing happens every Monday at 8 pm, followed by social dancing.

2

Happy hour runs from Wednesday to Friday, 5-8 pm with discounted drinks.

3

Comedy shows take place every Tuesday night, providing a fun midweek option.

18
AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles image 1

Rooftop bar offers 360-degree city views and a modern, clean vibe throughout the hotel. Loud music from the rooftop club creates a high-energy atmosphere that carries into late hours. Fitness center is well-equipped and open 24 hours, complementing the lively social spaces.

Oaxacan sour stands out among the cocktails, crafted with care. The rooftop bar offers stunning city views at sunset, paired with well executed drinks and engaging bartenders.

Stunning views from every floor include the DTLA skyline, Hollywood sign, and Crypto Arena. Nightlife features rooftop lounges and bars, a library lounge, and several venues with great food and service.

People are saying

"The hotel staff went above and beyond to make me feel valued."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful, making it worth it."

"The cocktails here are top-notch and made with a friendly vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The hotel charges a $35 Destination Fee on top of room rates.

3

Valet parking is available for $58 plus tax; no self-parking offered.

19
Clifton's Republic image 1

Multi-level lounge with themed rooms and hidden bars creates an immersive, nostalgic atmosphere. Energy shifts from intimate shows to lively dancing with a DJ. Decor blends historic charm and playful details, inviting exploration and socializing.

Strong cocktails come with fantastic flavors and pair well with live music and ambient lighting.

A layered experience with multiple floors featuring different themes, this venue blends lounge, museum, and club vibes. The Gothic lounge overlooks the dance floor and DJ booth, creating a spot for dancing, chatting, and eating among taxidermy and nature dioramas.

People are saying

"This bar is a magical tiki experience with a blast from the past."

"It's like stepping into an adventurer's storybook with quirky decor."

"The cocktails here are strong and great."

Good to know

1

Entry becomes a club at 9 pm with a $20 cover charge.

2

The DJ starts playing at 10:00 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining.

20
Mr. Wanderlust image 1

Entrance through a secret bookshelf leads to a dark, vibrant speakeasy with live piano and jazz bands. The space feels like a small dance club with burlesque dancers and a magical piano serenade every 30 minutes. The atmosphere blends Hollywood and Vegas flair with an energetic, packed crowd.

Bold flavors and beautiful presentation define the cocktails, with creations like the Paloma and Espresso Martini standing out. Experiences vary from calm settings to lively DJ sets, while wait times can be long.

A darker atmosphere with lounge music sets a relaxing yet vibrant tone. The space shifts from a low-key intimate setting to a small dance club vibe once chairs are removed.

People are saying

"The bar has a magical secret piano that serenades you every 30 minutes."

"The speakeasy vibe and secret door entrance are really cool."

"It's a diverse nightlife scene, from calm cocktails to a pounding DJ set."

Good to know

1

Live bands perform around 10 pm on Thursdays and Sundays.

2

The dancer performs every 20 minutes at the entrance.

3

Reservations may lead to a wait of 45 minutes to an hour.

21
LOST - DTLA image 1
Cocktail bar

Rooftop bar offers impressive downtown views with an enclosed lounge featuring Afrocentric decor and fire pits. Music fills the space through speakers everywhere, driven by a dynamic DJ playing throwback and afrobeats hits. Crowd is diverse and energetic, creating a lively yet laid-back vibe.

Cocktails come fiery and well-made, with a strong focus on mezcal. The menu includes a large selection of non-alcoholic mixed drinks that are interesting and not boring.

Layout suits a sexy nightclub vibe with a rooftop lounge that offers a decent spot to hang. The crowd tends to be quality-looking, adding to the legit club atmosphere.

People are saying

"The nightlife here has a laid-back, lounge vibe before 9 pm."

"I had to buy pants to get into the party."

"The cocktails here have such a lively and energetic vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak hours after 9 pm.

2

Many ladies are turned away for wearing sandals; dress code is strict.

3

Parking is available in paid lots across the street or metered spots.

22
LEVEL 8 image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop venue combines live band, nightclub, and speakeasy with city views and unique architecture. Atmosphere shifts from smooth music to loud bass, creating a vibrant energy. Offers diverse experiences including pool lounging, dining, and dancing all in one space.

Poolside service keeps drinks coming with constant attention. Cocktails come with great presentation and pair well with live entertainment and views of the wrestling on the 8th floor.

A rooftop offers a mix of jazz bar, EDM club, and a speakeasy with access between all areas. Live music, a pool, and multiple restaurants create a full nightlife experience on one floor.

People are saying

"It's a whole evening of events with different entertainment without moving far."

"It's like a whole world of unique bars all in one place."

"The cocktails here have stunning rooftop views and a vibrant vibe."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay a cover charge of around $50 CAD or $40 USD for entry.

2

All bars add a mandatory 18-20% tip to your bill.

3

Drinks at the rooftop bar are notably overpriced, often exceeding $50.

23
Freehand Los Angeles image 1

Rooftop pool and bar offer stunning 360-degree city views and a lively atmosphere during happy hour. Rooms feel spacious and cozy but can suffer from noise pollution due to city sounds and nearby nightlife. Interior design and decor create an attractive, vibrant vibe throughout the hotel.

Mixologist's cocktails stand out with superb quality crafted by talented staff. A rooftop bar offers a great spot to enjoy a delicious cocktail with views.

A rooftop bar with pool offers a great spot for nightlife, complemented by live music in the lounge during evenings. The area around has plenty of nightlife options and a market nearby.

People are saying

"The rooftop bar and pool offer nice views and a relaxed energy."

"The staff's friendliness made the nightlife here amazing."

"The rooftop bar is a great spot to unwind with delicious cocktails."

Good to know

1

The rooftop pool is adults-only after 7 PM.

2

Jazz night happens every Wednesday with live musicians.

3

Expect private events to close the rooftop area at times.

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