Hey Leah!I’m coming to LA on a business trip and I want to impress a client. What are some great cocktail bars in the City of Angels?
—German, Floral Park, New York
Hi German,
Of course, Los Angeles is a major city that’s home to countless bars of all kinds. But if you will only be here for a quick visit, here’s a few spots that are not to be missed.
Horses
Horses on Sunset Blvd. is the hottest spot in town right now; the food is phenomenal and the bar program is led by LA bar veteran Steve LaFountain, whose fig-leaf infused Vesper riff will melt all your worries away.
Jones Hollywood
Jones Hollywood is a classic old Hollywood martini bar. Always a good crowd and excellent late night food options. Sinatra himself used to hang there, as evidenced by the many bottles of Jack Daniels that line the bar.
The Dresden Room
The Dresden in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles is another staple. You may recognize it from the movie Swingers or Season 7 of Mad Men. This place is pure LA vibes replete with low lighting, mid-century décor, and old-school service, and has been owned by the Ferraro family since 1954.
Death & Co LA And Bathtub Gin
And of course, I’ve got to shout out to a couple New York transplants. Check out Bathtub Gin where I used to work, then head to the Arts District and try one of Death & Co.’s many tasty libations.
Leah Pupkin has been a craft cocktail bartender and consultant for the past ten years. She has worked in countless bars and curated cocktail programs all over New York and Australia. She now resides in Los Angeles, where she is currently the bar manager at Stone Street Coffee Co. & Bathtub Gin. Leah produces sponsored content for various liquor brands and runs a blog featuring movie reviews accompanied by craft cocktail pairings when not behind the bar. You can follow all her work on Instagram @atleahrose.
