Los Angeles, the City of Angels, shimmers with more than just movie magic. Beneath the iconic Hollywood sign lies a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and of course, unforgettable libations. L.A.’s bars are more than just watering holes; they’re time capsules, glittering testaments to a bygone era where silver screen sirens clinked glasses and literary giants penned masterpieces on cocktail napkins. So, whether you’re a Hollywood hopeful or simply thirsty for a taste of Tinseltown, pull up a stool and raise a glass at these legendary L.A. bars.
1. Musso & Frank Grill (Hollywood): A Storied Steakhouse Steeping in Silver Screen History
Step into Musso & Frank Grill, and you’re stepping onto a soundstage of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Established in 1919, this Hollywood institution has witnessed the rise and fall of countless stars, from Charlie Chaplin and Greta Garbo to Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. The mahogany booths whisper tales of script conferences and whispered romances, while the clinking of silverware echoes the soundtrack of a thousand deals struck.
Why it’s famous: Musso & Frank isn’t just a bar; it’s a living, breathing monument to Hollywood history. Its walls are adorned with caricatures of legendary patrons, and the menu boasts dishes like the “Charlie Chaplin Breakfast” and the “Marilyn Monroe Burger.”
Where it’s at: 6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Unique drink: The “Pink Lady” – a delicate concoction of gin, grenadine, egg white, and lemon juice, said to be a favorite of Marilyn Monroe.
Famous faces: Charlie Chaplin, Greta Garbo, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Humphrey Bogart, F. Scott Fitzgerald, William Faulkner, and countless others.
2. The King Eddy Saloon (Downtown L.A.): Where Whiskey Meets Wild West Grit
Venture into Downtown L.A.’s Historic Core, and you’ll stumble upon The King Eddy Saloon, a relic of the city’s Wild West past. Founded in 1861, this dimly lit, sawdust-strewn saloon has seen its fair share of gunslingers, gold miners, and even Wyatt Earp himself. Today, it’s a haven for history buffs and cocktail enthusiasts alike, offering a potent blend of Western charm and modern mixology.
Why it’s famous: The King Eddy is a tangible piece of L.A.’s Wild West history, boasting the title of the city’s oldest continuously operating bar. Its bullet-riddled walls and antique cash register speak volumes about its storied past.
Where it’s at: 548 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Unique drink: The “Sarsaparilla Fizz” – a refreshing blend of sarsaparilla, soda water, and bourbon, perfect for channeling your inner gunslinger.
Famous faces: Wyatt Earp, Buffalo Bill Cody, Jack London, Charles Bukowski, Marilyn Manson, and Johnny Depp.
3. The Rainbow Room (Hollywood): Where Rock Royalty Took the Stage and Sipped on Sunset Strip Sizzle
Ascend the winding staircase above the Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip, and you’ll find yourself transported to The Rainbow Room. This former speakeasy-turned-rock ‘n’ roll haven was once the playground of music legends like The Doors, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison. Today, it’s a vibrant music venue and bar, pulsating with the energy of L.A.’s music scene.
Why it’s famous: The Rainbow Room was a haven for counterculture icons in the 1960s and 70s, witnessing legendary jam sessions and impromptu performances by rock’s biggest names. It’s a living testament to the rebellious spirit of L.A.’s music scene.
Where it’s at: 8422 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Unique drink: The “Love is Strange” – a potent mix of vodka, rum, tequila, blue curaçao, and amaretto, named after The Doors’ iconic song.
Famous faces: The Doors, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Guns N’ Roses, and countless others.
4. HMS Bounty (Malibu): A Polynesian Paradise Sipping by the Sea
Escape the urban sprawl and set sail for paradise at the HMS Bounty in Malibu. This iconic beachfront bar transports you to a tropical oasis, complete with tiki torches, thatched roofs, and cascading waterfalls. Sip on fruity cocktails under the California sun, and soak in the breathtaking ocean views that have enchanted celebrities and locals alike for over 60 years.
Why it’s famous: The HMS Bounty is a Malibu landmark, offering an escape to a Polynesian paradise just steps from the Pacific Ocean. Its kitschy charm and celebrity clientele have been featured in countless movies and TV shows, solidifying its place as a pop culture icon.
Where it’s at: 23555 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Unique drink: The “Painkiller” – a potent blend of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, coconut cream, and grenadine, guaranteed to soothe any sunburned woes.
Famous faces: Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, The Beach Boys, Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio, and countless others.
5. The Varnish (Downtown L.A.): Speak Easy Secrets and Speakeasy Spirits
Hidden behind a curtain in Cole’s Spiced Beef, a historic Downtown L.A. restaurant, lies The Varnish. This speakeasy-inspired cocktail haven exudes the glamour and secrecy of the Prohibition era, with dim lighting, plush booths, and expertly crafted cocktails. Reservations are harder to snag than a Golden Globe, but those who persevere are rewarded with an unforgettable experience.
Why it’s famous: The Varnish is a modern-day speakeasy, a throwback to the golden age of cocktails with an emphasis on quality ingredients and meticulous technique. Its exclusivity and legendary cocktails have garnered acclaim from critics and celebrities alike.
Where it’s at: 3415 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Unique drink: The “White Negroni” – a twist on the classic Negroni, made with gin, Lillet Blanc, and Dolin Blanc vermouth, offering a lighter and floral take on the Italian staple.
Famous faces: Ryan Gosling, Eva Mendes, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and countless others.
6. The Abbey (West Hollywood): Where Glitter Meets Glamour and Gossip Flows Freely
In the heart of West Hollywood, where rainbow flags flutter and celebrities strut, stands The Abbey. This LGBTQ+ icon is more than just a bar; it’s a vibrant community hub, pulsating with energy, music, and the occasional paparazzi flash. From drag queen brunch to celebrity sightings, The Abbey offers a front-row seat to the glamorous, occasionally messy, spectacle of L.A. nightlife.
Why it’s famous: The Abbey is a West Hollywood institution, a cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ community and a magnet for celebrities and locals alike. Its vibrant atmosphere and reputation for A-list encounters make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of L.A.’s nightlife scene.
Where it’s at: 696 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Unique drink: The “Abbey Bloody Mary” – a spicy concoction infused with jalapenos, habaneros, and horseradish, guaranteed to wake up your taste buds and your gossip sense.
Famous faces: Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Ellen DeGeneres, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Swift, and countless others.
So there you have it, a glimpse into the glittering world of L.A.’s famous bars. Each one a portal to a different era, a different story, a different side of the City of Angels. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply a stargazer, raise a glass and immerse yourself in the magic of these legendary L.A. watering holes. Just remember, what happens in these legendary bars, often stays in these legendary bars.
