Los Angeles, the city of angels, isn't just about Hollywood glamour and celebrity sightings; it's also a vibrant hub for nightlife, boasting some seriously iconic and famous bars. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite haunt or a visitor wanting to experience the true LA bar scene, you're in for a treat. From historic watering holes to trendy cocktail lounges, Los Angeles offers a diverse range of options to quench your thirst and soak in the city's unique atmosphere. Let's dive into some of the must-visit famous bars that make Los Angeles a nightlife destination!

Iconic and Historic Bars

When it comes to famous bars, Los Angeles has its fair share of historic establishments that have stood the test of time. These bars aren't just places to grab a drink; they're living museums, each with its own unique story to tell. Stepping into one of these legendary spots is like taking a trip back in time, where you can almost feel the echoes of Hollywood's golden age. Consider the Musso & Frank Grill, for instance. This legendary establishment has been serving classic cocktails and hearty meals since 1919. It's not just a restaurant and bar; it's a piece of Hollywood history. Walking through its doors is like stepping back into the Golden Age of cinema. You can imagine legendary writers like Hemingway and Faulkner nursing their drinks in the very same booths you're sitting in. The dimly lit interior, with its red leather booths and mahogany bar, exudes an old-world charm that's hard to find anywhere else. The bartenders, many of whom have been working there for decades, are masters of their craft, mixing up perfect martinis and classic cocktails with effortless skill. The Musso & Frank Grill isn't just a place to drink; it's an experience, a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history of Hollywood.

Then there's the Formosa Cafe, another historic gem that has been a favorite haunt of celebrities and locals alike for generations. This iconic bar, with its distinctive red trolley car exterior, has been featured in countless films and TV shows. Inside, you'll find a dimly lit space filled with vintage memorabilia, including autographed photos of Hollywood legends who have graced its bar. The Formosa Cafe has a storied past, having survived Prohibition, the rise and fall of Hollywood studios, and numerous changes in ownership. Through it all, it has remained a beloved gathering place for those seeking a taste of old Hollywood glamour. Sipping a cocktail at the Formosa Cafe is like stepping into a time capsule, where you can almost hear the whispers of the past. The atmosphere is electric, the drinks are strong, and the memories are palpable. Whether you're a history buff, a film fanatic, or simply looking for a unique night out, the Formosa Cafe is a must-visit destination.

And let's not forget the HMS Bounty, a nautical-themed dive bar that has been a favorite of sailors, locals, and tourists since 1948. With its dark wood paneling, brass fixtures, and nautical decor, the HMS Bounty exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The bar is known for its strong drinks, friendly bartenders, and lively clientele. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and swap stories with fellow travelers. The HMS Bounty is more than just a bar; it's a community, a place where people from all walks of life come together to share a drink and a laugh. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a landlubber, you're sure to feel at home in this iconic Los Angeles establishment. These historic bars offer more than just a place to drink; they offer a glimpse into the past, a chance to experience the rich history and culture of Los Angeles.

Trendy Cocktail Lounges

For those seeking a more modern and sophisticated experience, Los Angeles boasts a plethora of trendy cocktail lounges that are pushing the boundaries of mixology. These famous bars are known for their innovative cocktails, stylish decor, and upscale clientele. They're the perfect places to see and be seen, to sip on expertly crafted drinks, and to soak in the city's vibrant energy. Consider The Edison, a steampunk-inspired bar located in the historic Higgins Building in downtown Los Angeles. This visually stunning space features soaring ceilings, exposed brick walls, and vintage machinery, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. The Edison is known for its inventive cocktails, which are crafted with fresh ingredients and a creative flair. The bar also hosts live music and burlesque performances, adding to its allure.

Then there's Broken Shaker, a rooftop bar located at the Freehand Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. This vibrant and colorful space offers stunning views of the city skyline, as well as a menu of innovative cocktails inspired by global flavors. Broken Shaker is known for its playful and creative drinks, which are served in quirky glassware and garnished with exotic ingredients. The bar also features a lively atmosphere, with DJs spinning tunes and a crowd of stylish Angelenos mingling under the stars. Broken Shaker is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset cocktail, to dance the night away, and to experience the vibrant energy of downtown Los Angeles. These trendy cocktail lounges are constantly evolving, with new bars opening and established ones reinventing themselves to stay ahead of the curve. They're the perfect places to discover new flavors, to experiment with different spirits, and to experience the cutting edge of mixology.

And let's not forget about NoMad Bar, an offshoot of the famed New York City bar, located in the NoMad Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. This elegant and sophisticated space features plush seating, dark wood paneling, and a menu of classic and contemporary cocktails. NoMad Bar is known for its impeccable service, its expertly crafted drinks, and its refined atmosphere. It's the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail, to celebrate a special occasion, or to simply unwind after a long day. These trendy cocktail lounges offer a sophisticated and stylish alternative to the traditional bar scene, providing a glimpse into the future of mixology. They're the perfect places to sip on expertly crafted drinks, to mingle with stylish Angelenos, and to experience the city's vibrant energy. These trendy famous bars are perfect for those looking to enjoy handcrafted cocktails in a chic atmosphere.

Dive Bars with Character

For a more laid-back and authentic experience, Los Angeles is home to a plethora of dive bars that are full of character and charm. These famous bars are known for their cheap drinks, friendly locals, and unpretentious atmosphere. They're the perfect places to escape the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, to relax and unwind, and to experience the real Los Angeles. Consider The Gold Room, a no-frills dive bar in Echo Park that has been a neighborhood institution for over 60 years. This cash-only establishment is known for its cheap beer, strong drinks, and lively atmosphere. The Gold Room is a place where everyone is welcome, from hipsters to blue-collar workers. The bar is always packed, the music is always loud, and the drinks are always flowing. It's the perfect place to let loose, to dance the night away, and to experience the raw energy of Los Angeles.

Then there's Jumbo's Clown Room, a legendary dive bar in Hollywood that is known for its eclectic clientele, its cheap drinks, and its live entertainment. Jumbo's Clown Room is a place where anything goes, where you can be yourself, and where you can let your freak flag fly. The bar features a rotating cast of performers, including exotic dancers, musicians, and comedians. Jumbo's Clown Room is not for the faint of heart, but it's an experience that you'll never forget. And let's not forget about The Redwood Bar & Grill, a pirate-themed dive bar in downtown Los Angeles that is known for its strong drinks, its nautical decor, and its live music. The Redwood Bar & Grill is a place where you can escape the city and set sail on a drunken adventure. The bar features a full menu of pub fare, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. The Redwood Bar & Grill is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, to enjoy a few drinks, and to listen to some live music. These dive bars offer a glimpse into the authentic Los Angeles, a side of the city that is often overlooked by tourists. They're the perfect places to relax, to unwind, and to experience the true spirit of LA.

These famous bars are unpretentious and offer a genuine LA experience. They are the perfect spots to mingle with locals and enjoy a low-key night out.

Rooftop Bars with a View

Los Angeles is famous for its stunning weather and breathtaking views, so it's no surprise that the city is home to a plethora of rooftop bars that offer both. These famous bars are the perfect places to soak in the sunshine, to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, and to sip on expertly crafted cocktails. They're the perfect places to impress a date, to celebrate a special occasion, or to simply enjoy a beautiful day in Los Angeles. Consider Perch, a French-inspired rooftop bar located in downtown Los Angeles that offers stunning views of the city skyline. This elegant and sophisticated space features plush seating, a romantic atmosphere, and a menu of classic and contemporary cocktails. Perch is the perfect place to enjoy a sunset cocktail, to dine al fresco, and to soak in the beauty of Los Angeles.

Then there's EP & LP, a stylish rooftop bar in West Hollywood that offers panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and the Sunset Strip. This trendy space features a lively atmosphere, a menu of innovative cocktails, and a rotating cast of DJs. EP & LP is the perfect place to dance the night away, to mingle with stylish Angelenos, and to experience the energy of West Hollywood. And let's not forget about The Highlight Room, a luxurious rooftop bar at the Dream Hollywood hotel that offers stunning views of the Hollywood Hills and the city skyline. This exclusive space features a pool, cabanas, and a menu of premium cocktails. The Highlight Room is the perfect place to relax, to unwind, and to soak in the glamour of Hollywood. These rooftop bars offer a unique perspective on Los Angeles, providing a bird's-eye view of the city's iconic landmarks and stunning scenery. They're the perfect places to enjoy a drink, to soak in the sunshine, and to experience the beauty of Los Angeles. These famous bars provide stunning views and a glamorous experience.

Conclusion

Los Angeles is a city of endless possibilities, and its bar scene is no exception. Whether you're looking for a historic watering hole, a trendy cocktail lounge, a dive bar with character, or a rooftop bar with a view, Los Angeles has something to offer everyone. So, the next time you're in the City of Angels, be sure to check out some of these famous bars and experience the best of LA nightlife. Cheers!