Los Angeles is home to a rising number of 1920s inspired, speakeasy-style cocktail bars and lounges that serve up great drinks in a vintage atmosphere. Here are our top picks.
The Del Monte
This Venice hangout, established in 1915, is the oldest bar in Venice and one of the oldest bars in Los Angeles. A true speakeasy during prohibition, the basement bar serves up classic drink choices, with plenty of gin, bitters and whiskey options to patrons who relax in dark red booths. There’s a variety of live weekly entertainment, including live jazz Friday and Saturday nights and burlesque dancing on Wednesday nights.
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The Edison
The Edison in downtown LA is a must-visit destination for anyone who is looking for a true 20s experience. The bar and lounge space is a converted electric plant in the basement of the famous Higgins Building with vintage hardware elements and 20s mystique. On the weekends, it is packed with partygoers dressed in period attire to the backdrop of live burlesque dancing with vintage black and white films projected onto the walls.
Copa D’Oro
Copa D’Oro, nestled in Santa Monica, offers westsiders a taste of the 20s with a laidback but sophisticated theme. Visitors will find plenty of handcrafted prohibition-style cocktails and weekend entertainment, such as live art demonstrations.
The Varnish
In downtown LA, The Varnish’s dimly lit interior, and somewhat hidden entrance (in the back of neighboring bar Cole’s) offers patrons an intimate and VIP experience. The drinks are all handcrafted with fresh ingredients and occasional live music.
Next Door Lounge
The Next Door Lounge, located in Hollywood, is dedicated to celebrating 1920s Hollywood. The interiors are vintage-inspired with leather chairs and couches. Come for the strong drinks, jazz ambiance and Old Hollywood vibe.
The Roger Room
Located on La Cienega, in Beverly Grove, the Roger Room mixes vintage speakeasy themes in a friendly neighborhood bar atmosphere. Favorites from the cocktail menu include the Spiced Mule with rum, ginger juice, lime and spices and the Thug, mixture of whiskey, honey liqueur, habanero, lemon juice and bitters.
Writer’s Room
Priding itself on secrecy, there is no obvious sign signaling the entrance of The Writer’s Room. This Hollywood establishment is for locals in the know, with dim lighting and comfortable couches and mix of music from 1920s jazz to classic rock. Come for the retro handcrafted cocktails and no cover, a different vibe than the crowded clubs in the rest of Hollywood.
