Where to Grab a Drink in a Cozy Bar on a Cold Day in LA
.png)
Bar Next Door
Location: West Hollywood
This cocktail bar aims to provide a refreshing departure from the glitzy Hollywood Hills ambiance, opting for a more laid-back and familiar atmosphere. Positioned as a "classic neighborhood haunt," Bar Next Door embraces the nostalgic allure of decades past with its vintage tile, dark wood, and rustic leather decor, situated along one of Los Angeles's most iconic nightlife boulevards.
Alma’s Cider House
Location: Virgil Village
Alma’s Cider and Beer, a quaint Virgil Village bar, specializes in a diverse range of global ciders, offering a unique departure from the standard cocktail fare. This Silver Lake-adjacent establishment stands out with its cozy atmosphere, delightful bar bites—particularly their tempting waffles—and knowledgeable bartenders. In contrast to typical bustling Los Angeles drinking spots, Alma’s provides a tranquil setting where patrons can actually hear themselves talk (a potentially great spot for a first date).
Bigfoot Lodge
Location: Atwater Village
Transport yourself to a quintessential log cabin winter retreat as you enter this rustic bar, with locations in both Atwater Village and Palms. Every detail, from the crackling fireplace to the charming National Park font on the signage, has been carefully crafted to evoke the rugged wilderness ambiance of the American West. Studded leather booths and charming Western curiosities enhance the cozy atmosphere, providing a warm and inviting setting.
The Wellesbourne
Location: Westwood
Step into The Wellesbourne, where your booziest library dreams materialize amidst well-stocked bookshelves, wood-paneled booths, and a crackling fireplace. Reflecting the charm of 18th-century England, particularly Shakespeare's hometown, each room is adorned with refined touches. For a curated experience, simply ask the bartender for a "strong and stirred" concoction, allowing the experts to showcase their skills. Alternatively, explore seasonal delights like the Egg Nog Blue Blazer, a festive blend featuring three different rums and house-made nog.
Bar Bandini
Location: Echo Park
Despite Echo Park's relatively small size, it surprisingly boasts several natural wine bars, and Bar Bandini remains our top choice. The dimly lit and refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere, with dark painted walls, suede banquettes, and rustic exposed wood, strikes the perfect balance between a chill neighborhood watering hole and a subtly romantic spot. Whether you're on a date or catching up with friends, Bar Bandini is the spot to go to to grab ‘one more drink’ before heading home.
The Chestnut Club
Location: Santa Monica
Don't miss out on the cozy and intimate atmosphere at The Chestnut Club, a must-visit destination in Santa Monica. This modern cocktail bar, feels a thousand miles away from the pier's hustle and bustle, and exudes a sophisticated vibe with dim lighting, dark wood, plush leather sofas, and exposed brick. The combination of these elements makes this relaxed and refined Westside cocktail haven an unmissable experience.
Sunset and Vinyl
Location: Hollywood
Discover this hidden gem – a bar and lounge dedicated to the art of cocktails and the simple pleasure of enjoying vintage vinyl records. Adorned with plush 70s lounge chairs and retro mood lighting, the interior invokes the nostalgic atmosphere of Hollywood in the 70s. The crushed velvet chairs, dim lighting, sticky laminated menus, and the funky vinyl tracks playing in the background create a cozy dive bar ambiance.
Old Man Bar
Location: Culver City
Nestled at the back of Hatchet Hall, the Old Man Bar offers an intimate, softly lit environment, focusing on American whiskey and spirits. Boasting one of Los Angeles' finest curated backbars, it showcases both current and coveted releases from various distilleries. The ambiance exudes a lodge-like feel with its all-vinyl music, a warm fireplace, and walls adorned with taxidermy.
Good Housekeeping
Location: Highland Park
Good Housekeeping is a charming local bar in Highland Park. Its cozy Pueblo-style outdoor area and warm, brick-wall interiors create an inviting atmosphere. With a concise yet impressive drink menu featuring classic craft cocktails, it's the perfect spot for casual drinks and relaxation after a long day.
The Grant
Location: Glassell Park
Tucked away in Glassell Park, The Grant is a chic yet laid-back local bar. With its sleek art deco interior and craft cocktails featuring unique ingredients, it exudes sophistication akin to The Roosevelt. However, instead of bustling crowds, you'll find a relaxed atmosphere perfect for intimate gatherings, first-date nightcaps, and casual catch-ups among neighbors and young parents. Its cozy seating makes it an ideal spot for gloomy days, and the occasional visit from a neighborhood cat adds to its homey charm.
The Raymond 1886
Location: Pasadena
The Raymond 1886 in Pasadena offers elevated comfort food and classic cocktails in an intimate setting with indoor and outdoor fireplaces. Bar 1886, located within The Raymond, provides a cozy atmosphere with rustic decor and a rotating cocktail menu, along with an extensive selection of off-menu cocktails. Guests can enjoy dishes like al pastor prawns and mushroom gnocchi from the bar menu while sipping on expertly crafted drinks.
Firefly
Location: Studio City
Firefly may not be a hidden gem, but its expansive back patio exudes the charm of a secluded European resort nestled in Studio City. This intimate outdoor space contributes to Firefly's reputation as one of L.A.'s most romantic restaurants. Indoors, the ambiance is cozy, with mood lighting, walls adorned with books, and plush couch seating, creating an ideal setting for enjoying drinks like an old-fashioned with friends. Alongside the patio are intimate cabanas, a towering ivy-covered wall, and a striking see-through fireplace at its center.
The Prince
Location: Koreatown
With blood-red leather booths and dim mood lighting, this historic Tudor Revival restaurant is a divey, time-traveling fever dream. Once known as the Windsor, the Prince’s interior dates back to the 1940s and you can’t beat the low-key ambience at the Prince, which manages to toe the line between luxurious and comfortable all at the same time.
Idle Hour
Location: North Hollywood
This bar stands as the Valley's pinnacle spot. Revitalized from three decades of neglect, this 90-year-old icon now shines as the blockbuster it was destined to be. Offering superb craft beer, a stellar array of old-school cocktails, and boasting one of the city's most beloved patios - complete with a giant bulldog - it exudes coziness. Its laid-back atmosphere draws a crowd that's simply unmatched on the other side of the hills. Plus, where else can you sip drinks inside a giant two-story wooden barrel, adding an extra layer of cozy charm to your experience?
The Lincoln
Location: Venice
The Lincoln is more than a bar—it’s a tribute to the golden age of cocktails, infused with Venice Beach’s effortlessly cool spirit. Combining mid-century design with laid-back, surf-inspired touches, it strikes the perfect balance between style and ease. Friendly bartenders and a welcoming mix of locals make it easy to strike up a conversation at the bar, creating a space that feels as social as it is stylish. Here, it’s all about great drinks, good vibes, and a genuinely down-to-earth atmosphere.
Employees Only
Location: West Hollywood
Employees Only brings together West Hollywood flair and New York sophistication. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails and inventive seasonal menu (updated twice a year), this dimly lit bar offers a romantic yet lively vibe. With a spacious dining area, upbeat DJ sets, and a private room ideal for intimate dinners, it’s perfect for date nights, group outings, or kicking off a night of cocktail hopping in the heart of WeHo.
Justine’s Wine Bar
Location: Frogtown
Sexy little wine bar behind a vegan bakery.They have a unique wine list that I appreciate, really reasonable prices and a great happy hour. Their food menu is small but so yummy! The service was great and I could have easily spent the rest of the night there, the music and vibes were great for catching up. Would recommend and return.small space. Dimly lit. It's beautiful inside, and very intimate.
.avif)
