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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Venice

Cool bars

A bar that has a distinct personality instead of just following the latest trends to draw a crowd.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
SoCal Vibes Co. Abbot Kinney image 1
SoCal Vibes Co. Abbot Kinney image 2
SoCal Vibes Co. Abbot Kinney image 3
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Small bar with an open-air patio featuring fire pits and swings creates a relaxed, SoCal vibe atmosphere. Cool, trendy decor complements a top-notch cider selection and chill music. Space attracts a laid-back crowd looking for a casual spot to hang out.

Indoor bar features trendy decor and a clean, tidy setup with table seating. A cool lounging area out back adds to the local bar atmosphere, all at a cost lower than comparable spots nearby.

An indoor bar with table seating and a cool lounging area out back create a relaxed atmosphere. The interior design adds to the overall chill vibe.

People are saying

"You've got to try their inventive and tasty ciders."

"The bar has a laid-back tiki vibe with great energy and great atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with no cover charge.

2

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos all day long.

3

The venue is available for private events and birthday parties.

02
The Venice Beach Bar & Kitchen image 1

Oceanfront bar and grill offers upstairs terrace with beach views and outdoor seating steps from the sand. Atmosphere stays friendly and chill, with live bands and DJs providing loud music that energizes the space. Popular for affordable food and drinks, especially tacos, burgers, and draft beers.

Offers a chill oceanfront vibe with seating upstairs for ocean views. Serves amazing burgers alongside a solid drink menu in a pet-friendly, laid-back setting.

A cool vibe comes from live music and excellent beers. The service stays super cool, making it a chill spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and super friendly."

"I thought the tacos here were amazing and delicious."

"The vibes here are cool, a dope spot to hang out."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great value with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The bar is dog-friendly, allowing pets inside.

3

Self-seating is available, often with ocean views.

03
The Del Monte Speakeasy image 1

Speakeasy downstairs near the beach offers an intimate, cozy setting with great acoustics for live music and DJ sets. The vibe stays chill and customizable, attracting a steady crowd in a historic space dating back to 1915.

One of the third oldest bars in LA county, it offers a speakeasy vibe that stands out in Venice. The atmosphere feels cool and classic.

A speakeasy downstairs near the beach creates a unique vibe. The place hosts cool shows that add to its atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bar is a cool spot to hang out and have drinks."

"The atmosphere here is really cool for drinks."

"I thought this speakeasy was the coolest bar in the area."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Live music starts at 8pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

3

No food is available for purchase at the venue.

04
The Venice West image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers intimate setting with fantastic live music and great acoustics. Atmosphere stays vibrant and comfortable, drawing both local and national acts. Sound can be very loud near speakers, creating a high-energy experience.

Cool vibe comes from an edgy ambiance with dim lighting and a great sound system in a spacious, intimate setting.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the artists were superstars."

"The staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"I heard great live bands at this bar."

Good to know

1

The Grateful Dead Brunch happens every Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 6 pm to 7 pm with a special menu.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

05
The Lincoln image 1

Bar combines crowded dance floor with cozy couches and greenhouse-style patio seating. Loud live DJ music drives a lively, party-friendly vibe, while outdoor heat lamps offer a relaxed alternative to the energetic indoor scene.

Spacious bar with a skilled mixologist crafting great drinks and new cocktails. Friendly, professional staff and security guide guests to reserved areas near the crowded dance floor with a great DJ.

Outdoor area with heat lamps creates a standout setting. Music and bartenders add to the cool atmosphere. Patrons often dress up and keep the vibe lively.

People are saying

"The bar here has a really cool atmosphere and vibe."

"The bartenders here are friendly and make masterful drinks."

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

Good to know

1

Expect long lines on weekends due to high capacity.

2

Pre-purchasing tickets allows quicker entry.

3

Street parking is the only option available.

06
Ōwa image 1
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.

Solid drinks come with professional bartenders behind an ingeniously designed curved bar top. Live Cuban Jazz often plays, adding to the charming cocktail service atmosphere.

Space carries a modern, grown-up energy that feels quietly cool and stylish without effort. It balances an organic, authentic vibe with intimacy and liveliness.

People are saying

"These date spots have incredible flavors and textures."

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

"Jaco makes the vibe so cool with his hospitality and attention to detail."

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
Coucou image 1
French restaurant

Small interior with bar-focused layout creates a cozy, hip vibe reminiscent of a New York City bistro. Attention to detailed decor and a European garden patio enhance the intimate atmosphere. Space feels lively and stylish, suited for date nights or drinks with friends.

Exposed brick and an ambient bar create a relaxed atmosphere. The bar feels like a chic French bistro, offering a welcoming vibe for late seating.

Effortlessly cool vibe fills the well-designed room, blending a hip, French atmosphere that fits right in with trendy spots.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are outstanding and perfectly balanced."

"The food here is delicious, especially the steak frites."

"It's got this cool French bistro charm with a SoCal summer energy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three items for $33, including food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy.

3

A 20% service fee is automatically added to all bills.

08
The Win~Dow at American Beauty image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor patio offers a charming, spacious setting with good music and plenty of heaters for cooler evenings. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, attracting young families and dog owners. Order and pickup happen through tiny windows, which can feel cramped but service remains quick.

Fully stocked with a wide selection of drinks, the bar sits conveniently close to the restaurant. Bar staff come off as unfriendly, and the atmosphere feels unwelcoming despite the high price for a plastic cup of wine.

Outdoor seating features plenty of heaters making it comfortable even on cool evenings. Ordering happens through a window, and the patio offers a chill atmosphere great for socializing.

People are saying

"The burgers here are so juicy, especially with the outdoor seating."

"The smash burger here is a must-eat and incredibly affordable."

"The burgers at this bar are fantastic, especially the double patty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and dining is not available after 4 PM.

2

The place is dog-friendly, with a patio area for pets.

3

Mobile ordering is available and food is prepared quickly.

09
Casablanca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a vintage movie theme and live solo music creates a dynamic, vibrant atmosphere. Margarita cart serves drinks tableside, adding to the lively experience. Handmade tortillas prepared in view enhance the authentic feel.

A roaming bar cart with an informed bartender moves around the restaurant, making drinks tableside. A tortilla bar with freshly made tortillas sits in the middle of the space.

A cool theme sets the vibe here, with a margarita cart adding a unique touch. The seafood brasero stands out for its delicious taste and presentation.

People are saying

"I found the warm, freshly made tortillas to be the best."

"You have to try the fresh tortillas; they're amazing."

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

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking at Casablanca can be tight, so arrive early if driving.

3

The restaurant offers a special 'hidden' menu not listed publicly.

10
Market image 1
Restaurant

Upscale restaurant with glass-heavy decor and cozy outdoor patio featuring blankets and fire heaters. Atmosphere shifts from inviting dining vibe to club-like energy late at night with a DJ and dancing. Space has high ceilings and concrete floors that create an echoey, lively sound environment.

Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options with a full bar available. Reservations are recommended for the bar area.

A really cool vibe fills both the indoor and outdoor spaces. The venue itself adds to the nice atmosphere throughout.

People are saying

"The pasta here is so fresh and tasty."

"The cabbage with chili oil at this bar is a standout dish."

"The vibe here is really cool, both indoors and outdoors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant turns into a bar at 11 PM each night.

2

Around 10/10:30 PM, they set up a DJ booth for dancing.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere after dinner with music and dancing.

11
Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator image 1

Huge indoor and outdoor spaces offer spacious seating and a huge patio with picnic tables and umbrellas. Atmosphere stays relaxed and chill, ideal for groups or families enjoying food and drinks. Outdoor patio features games like giant Jenga and live music, enhancing the social vibe.

UK-style ordering at the bar creates a unique experience. Friendly staff make hanging out at the bar or inside tables easy. Food quality stands out as pretty good for a bar.

Outdoor seating offers a very cool atmosphere with plenty of tables. The gift shop features unique merchandise and take-home options, adding to the overall chill vibe for groups and families.

People are saying

"I loved the awesome beer selection they offered."

"Tash at the bar provided outstanding and sincere service."

"It's a cool spot with lots of interesting brews to try."

Good to know

1

They offer $5 pints on Monday game days.

2

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

3

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday, 3pm to 5pm, with $5 draft pints.

12
The Waterfront Venice image 1
American restaurant

Open-air seafront restaurant offers beach and sunset views with a lively atmosphere and live music. Outdoor patio includes games like ping pong and corn hole, creating a fun, laidback vibe. High stools and big screen TVs add to the energetic setting.

A bar with a beachfront location offers attentive service and a shift away from dive bar vibes. Saturdays feature sophisticated techno sessions, creating a lively atmosphere on the Boardwalk.

Setting right on the beach creates a breezy, cool vibe. Seating along the boardwalk adds to the hip ambiance.

People are saying

"The shrimp tacos and ceviche here are amazing."

"The bar team was so friendly and quick to help with any issues."

"It's a really cool spot right on the boardwalk."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 7 pm daily, not at sunset.

2

Daily drink deals include a cocktail of the day and a can of the day.

3

Bottomless drinks are available for 1.5 hours only.

13
Townhouse Venice image 1

Bar spreads over two floors with outdoor seating and a pool table downstairs. Atmosphere blends intimate yet party-like vibes with live jazz music and occasional shows. Crowd enjoys exceptional cocktails and a chill, easy-going energy without pretension.

Over 100 years old, this bar offers a two-floor layout with outdoor seating. Staff are friendly and helpful, creating an easy-going atmosphere rather than a pretentious vibe.

Security staff bring a super cool presence. The spot has a chill vibe that feels relaxed and welcoming. Overall, it stands out as a cool little spot with a laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are perfectly balanced and amazing."

"The cocktails here are amazing and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the cool and chill vibe here."

Good to know

1

There is a $5 entrance fee to enter the establishment.

2

Salt Hank gives away 1,000 sandwiches on Saturdays starting at 11am.

3

The bar can get quite busy, especially during weekends.

14
Roosterfish image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers a moody indoor space with a gorgeous, ginormous patio featuring plenty of seating. Atmosphere stays chill and inviting during the week, with a DJ playing later in the evening to lift energy. Crowd leans toward a straight, all-inclusive vibe rather than a queer-specific scene.

A gorgeous patio with plenty of seating defines the bar's spacious vibe. It blends a rich past as one of the first gay bars with a polished, contemporary feel.

Smoking terrace adds a unique vibe. Atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting.

People are saying

"This bar is definitely not a gay bar anymore."

"The outdoor seating here is a gorgeous, ginormous patio."

"I found the atmosphere to be really cool."

Good to know

1

The happy hour at Roosterfish is available daily, even on weekends.

2

Comedy shows happen on Thursday nights, starting at 8pm.

3

Roosterfish tends to get busier on Thursday nights due to good music.

15
The Penmar image 1
Restaurant

Large restaurant with ample outdoor seating overlooking a golf course and practice green creates a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Live music plays softly, allowing easy conversation, while families enjoy kids playing nearby. Outdoor heaters and tents keep the space comfortable in cooler weather.

Offers a full bar for cocktails and a variety of beers on tap. Allows corkage and accommodates special requests like managing open bar tabs and adding table decor.

People are saying

"I loved our outdoor seating with a great view of the golf course."

"The bar tab was managed perfectly for our event."

"It's got this cool country club vibe with a golf course feel."

Good to know

1

The Penmar hosts live bands and DJs on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.

3

Reservations are recommended for concert nights to avoid long waits.

16
Dudley Market image 1
Seafood restaurant

Tiny space with tight table spacing creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Loud environment filled with banging vinyl tunes and a disco ball adds to the energetic vibe. Crowd enjoys fresh seafood and wine in a cozy yet cutting-edge setting.

Attentive staff at the bar offer excellent food recommendations and have strong wine knowledge. Seating at the bar happens quickly, and the atmosphere encourages meeting fun people.

A cool atmosphere sets the tone with a great vibe and a beautiful crowd. The space feels both cool and cozy.

People are saying

"You can get unique natural wine offerings here."

"The burger here is juicy, flavorful, and simply the best."

"It's a cool spot with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long walk-up waits.

2

Walk-up waits can get quite long during peak hours.

3

The restaurant does not serve dessert.

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Venice, Los Angeles

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