Los Feliz might be the ultimate bar crawl destination. Not only are there a ton of drinking spots within walking distance of each other, but each venue offers a different scene, from swank to dive. Better yet, there are no nightlife politics or velvet ropes. If the bar’s not at capacity, you can waltz right in. Now if only someone would offer you a couch to crash on…
Los Feliz bar crawl
It’s an easy walk to the state of inebriation
By Yasmin Humayun and Sarah Ardalani
Special for MetromixJuly 8, 2008
Cuba Libre Latin Cafe Bar
1745 N. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles323-661-5900
Formerly Tiger Lily, this Latin-inspired bar and cafe is all about its rum selection and mojitos. Although celebrities are known to drop by to hear the live music, the scene is usually vibrant with locals young and old, especially during happy hour (Tuesday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) when drinks and apps are half-off.
The Derby
4500 Los Feliz Blvd., Los Feliz323-663-8979
Much thanks to the film "Swingers," this Los Feliz institution attracts tourists by the loads. Aside from the star-spotting (Bono has hung out here), it's a great spot to have a drink and practice swing dancing on Sunday nights. The Derby also hosts comedy showcases, magic shows and even live radio broadcasts. The venue can get pretty crowded and loud, but the drinks are so strong, you'll be screaming in the ear of your new best friend in no time.
Drawing Room
1800 Hillhurst Ave., Los Angeles323-665-0135
Located next to a laundromat and across from Ye Rustic Inn, this tiny, vaguely Chinese-themed dive bar always gets packed. And for good reason: The D.R. is known for cheap drinks, intimate booths and pulsing red lights. On the weekends, you can catch rowdy regulars singing along to the jukebox and dancing the night away in any available space they can find. In desperate need of a drink at 6 a.m.? Lucky for you, that’s when this bar opens!
The Dresden Room
1760 Vermont Ave., Los Angeles323-665-4294
In case you didn’t know, this place is money. Like the Derby, this place owes thanks to "Swingers." Not much has changed since this cabaret’s 1996 film cameo, or long before that. Monday though Saturday catch the Dresden’s resident jazz musicians, Marty and Elayne. And try the infamous Blood and Sand drink: It’s been called the "world's most tantalizing cocktail." Trust us—it’s a lot yummier than it sounds.
Fred 62
1850 N. Vermont Ave., Los Feliz323-667-0062
Even though this spot is known more as a diner and less as a bar, they do sell cheap beer, wine and even Champagne. If you’d like a snack with your booze, Fred 62 has an extensive menu that includes breakfast enchiladas, tuna melts and smoked brisket. It’s colorful inside, but the curbside tables are the best seats in the house for people-watching.
Good Luck Bar
1514 Hillhurst Ave., Los Angeles323-666-3524
This corner bar looks nondescript from the outside, but inside it’s a stylish Chinese-style den that serves original (and often sweet) cocktails like the Hong Kong Bong and Enter the Dragon, all of which can be ordered as a “Siamese twin" (a double).
Sgt. Recruiter
4655 Hollywood Blvd. ,
Los Angeles
323-669-3922
This French-style bar is the definition of cozy. Even though the bar holds only 14 seats, it’s enough space for several friends to catch up after the weekend, eat the plate du jour and down a couple of glasses of wine. Sgt. Recruiter is perfect for an after-work drink or a romantic date.
Tangier
2138 Hillhurst Ave., Los Angeles323-660-1033
Located at the north end of Hillhurst Avenue, Tangier is a slice of Hollywood in Los Feliz. From the huge shining metal door to the mildly intimidating doorman, locals come to this cool, sexy Mediterranean nightspot to enjoy live music and to take advantage of Martini Madness. In addition to Tangier’s drink specials, there’s a spacious outdoor area complete with Christmas lights and a water fountain.
Vermont Restaurant & Bar
1714 Vermont Ave., Los Angeles323-661-6163
One of the classiest places you'll find in the neighborhood, Vermont is not only a hip restaurant with a “new American” menu, it’s also bar known for such signature cocktails as the French Kiss and the Love Potion.
Ye Rustic Inn
1831 Hillhurst Ave., Los Angeles323-662-5757
Rustic doesn't even begin to describe this relaxed dive bar located in an unassuming strip mall. You can order Champagne for $7.50 a glass, but the real bargain is the Rustic Sampler, a proud heart-clogger. $9.50 buys onion rings, zucchini sticks, fries, nuggets, buffalo wings and nachos. Despite its L.A. location, the decor of the bar has more of a Midwest feel, with faux antlers, hunting paraphernalia and sports memorabilia covering the walls.
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