Our Favorite Bars to Go To for a Casual Night out (Part Two)
Scarlet Lady Saloon
Location: Culver city
Scarlet Lady Saloon, established in 1999, is a neighborhood New Orleans Saints bar with a welcoming atmosphere and strong ties to local sports like the Dodgers and Kings. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM, it features a full-service bar, Lotto, Keno, two pool tables, dartboards, 13 flat-screen TVs with all games (including Dodger games via a Warner box), and karaoke four nights a week starting at 9:00 PM. Known for its friendly service, strong drinks, and lively vibe, it’s a spot where Culver City locals and LAX travelers can relax, meet new friends, and catch their favorite games.
El Carmen
Location: Beverly Grove
El Carmen is a tequila lover’s paradise with over 300 tequila and mezcal labels, housed under a stunning mosaic-barreled ceiling. Established in 1927, this lucha libre-themed spot exudes vintage charm with its red curtain, glowing neon sign, and festive decor. Known for award-winning margaritas, creative cocktails, and unbeatable happy hour deals, it’s perfect for tacos, nachos, and first-date vibes.
Glendale Tap
Location: Glendale
This unassuming alehouse on the edge of Glendale offers a rotating selection of 52 craft beers on tap, from wheat beers to stouts, with many local brews. Its cozy, garage-inspired vibe features a pool table, outdoor patio, visiting food trucks, and "The Cellar" for to-go options. With great service and a welcoming community, it’s a go-to spot for beer enthusiasts and laid-back hangouts.
Dusty’s Vinyl Bar
Location: Sawtelle
Dusty’s Vinyl Bar in Sawtelle blends a vintage-inspired interior with a trendy, laid-back vibe. The dimly lit space features a spacious layout with booths, a dance floor, pool tables, and cozy seating. Known for exceptional service, creative cocktails (and mocktails), and friendly patrons, it’s perfect for happy hour with standout dishes like $9 burgers, baby back ribs, and Korean fried chicken.
Brennan’s
Location: Marina Del Rey
For over four decades, Brennan’s has hosted its famous Thursday turtle races, where professional racing turtles compete for charity in a lively and quirky tradition—just don’t point! The revamped spot blends vintage charm with modern flair, offering classic American pub fare, 16 craft beers on tap, creative cocktails, and a laid-back vibe. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating, a dog-friendly patio, and games, it’s perfect for gatherings and fun nights out.
The Douglas LA
Location: Echo Park
The Douglas is a neighborhood gem offering $5 drafts, burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, vegan options, and a welcoming patio. With sports on TV, music playing, and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect five-star dive bar. Owned by hospitality veterans Dave Abrams and Johnny Jeltema, The Douglas blends great food, drinks, and genuine hospitality into a go-to spot for locals to relax and unwind.
Crawfords
Location: Westlake
The one and only Crawfords opened in 2016 with the vision of a dive bar that served delicious fried chicken (hot or not) and paired it with ice cold beer. The bar is constantly evolving with new and old beers being added to our menu regularly, One thing that is constant is their $4 Budweiser draft beers served in a frosty glass.
R Bar
Location: Koreatown
R Bar, located in the heart of K-town, is a relaxed neighborhood spot with craft cocktails, great food, and a fun atmosphere. Offering trivia, karaoke, and a friendly staff, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy mac & cheese with jalapeños and bacon, or sip on affordable drinks during all-day Happy Hour on Mondays. The biggest downside here is the parking situation. Uber/Lyft recommended for your sanity.
Sonny McLean’s Irish Pub
Location: Santa Monica
Sonny McLean’s Irish Pub in Santa Monica offers Irish pub fare, classic American dishes, and 40 beers on tap. With 23 HDTVs inside and 6 in the outdoor beer garden, it’s a top sports bar. Enjoy Happy Hour weekdays from 4-7 pm with craft beers, well drinks, and appetizers. Plus, it’s just down the street from the Santa Monica Pickleball Center, making it the perfect post-match spot.
Everson Royce Bar
Location: Arts District
Everson Royce Bar, located on the southern edge of the Arts District, is a standout spot for happy hour and beyond. The large outdoor patio and interior bar area offer a relaxed vibe, perfect for anything from a casual drink to a lively birthday celebration. With cocktails, frozen drinks, beer, and tasty vegetarian and vegan options, it's great for both small gatherings and large parties. The friendly staff and excellent food make it a must-visit spot.
Bar Franca
Location: Downtown LA
Bar Franca is a stylish cocktail bar in Downtown LA offering a unique experience for those seeking quality and creativity. Open Thursday to Saturday from 8 PM to 2 AM, patrons can head to this location for crafted drinks, made with precision and tailored to individual tastes. With a commitment to excellence, Bar Franca blends timeless classics with modern flair, inviting guests to explore new flavors in a welcoming, refined space.
Tribute Hollywood
Location: Hollywood
Located in the heart of Hollywood, Tribute is a vibrant cocktail bar and eatery, offering New American cuisine late night. Housed in a historic building once known for legendary performances, its spacious interior features high ceilings, open-air windows, and a prominent island bar. With excellent food, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere, Tribute is the perfect casual spot to hang out with friends.
The Roger Room
Location: West Hollywood
The Roger Room probably isn't what pops to mind when you think of a WeHo bar. Behind a discreet entrance lies a cozy, dimly lit saloon with murals on the walls and cozy booths. Known for craft cocktails like the Flim Flam, this bar is about real conversation and a laid-back vibe, not a scene. With attentive bartenders and a relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for those seeking something different in West Hollywood. Open all holidays.
The Story Tavern
Location: Burbank
Located in downtown Burbank, Story Tavern offers over 20 craft beers on tap, 12 wines on tap, and a selection of ciders. With a full bar and signature cocktails made with classic ingredients, it brings a vintage mid-20th century vibe. The menu features farm-fresh, healthy, gourmet comfort food, with no fryer in sight. It’s a popular hangout, with live bands on certain nights and darts, ping pong, foosball, shuffleboard, in their game room.
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