Drink and a Show: 5 Venues with Killer Bars

Here in Los Angeles, we certainly aren’t left wanting for a place to catch live music. Getting a great cocktail in the same place, however —now that’s another story. In the spirit of our favorite weekend antics, we rounded up a list of our favorite well-rounded haunts that slay across the board. When it comes to acoustics, atmosphere, and a solid pour, these guys, as Trick would say, take it to the house.

The Love Song Bar (at The Regent)

What was once a vintage cinema built back in 1914 is now the locally beloved Regent Theater— a mainstay indie concert hall with an equally beloved bar and pizzeria. If you find yourself being a grown and sexy 21+ attendee of The Regent, do not leave without hitting The Love Song Bar. The classic cocktail den façade boasts reclaimed wood surfaces, mood lighting, and an expansive drink menu with tons of expertly crafted options to tempt your palate. Quality drinks keep bar patrons happy, while free of charge live performances keep the energy just right. Once the munchies hit, you’ll love having the Prufrock Pizzeria right next door to bring the pleasant experience full circle.

Townhouse Venice

Rarely does a piece of architecture find itself being used for its same, originally intended purpose 100 years after being built, but Townhouse Venice shows itself to be exceptional in this regard. Built back in 1915—when it was hidden beneath a grocery store—the bar became a speakeasy during the prohibition era. Today, it still stands proudly as a space to grab a glass of whatever you’d like. Try the Moscow Mule if you’re feeling up for a taste of vodka, ginger, honey, cucumber and lime, or reach for the Old Fashioned if you’re leaning towards a mix of bourbon and rye whiskey with Demerara and Bay Rum Bitters. Pop in throughout the week and catch indie acts, jazz performances, burlesque shows, and DJ sets from the who’s who.

 The Standard Hotel, Downtown LA Rooftop

Into scoping out panoramic views, outdoor fireplaces, heated swimming pools, and complimentary waterbeds with your Bourbon Lemonade? Thought so. Plenty of folks are, which is why The Standard’s rooftop bar and lounge is a favored destination for many Angelenos and out-of-towners. Their mix of nightly Djs keeps the dance floor in motion, while their menu of cocktails and classic German beers keeps dancers fueled. German Biergartens not a huge interest for you? No worries; there’s something for every flavor palate. Reach for the French 77, featuring sparkling wine, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, or possibly the Bellini Martini, showcasing premium vodka, peach schnapps, peach nectar, and a splash of champagne.

Upstairs Bar at Ace Hotel

Attendees of the Ace Hotel’s Upstairs Bar often become frequent visitors. This is based off empirical data and good old-fashioned personal accounts. Because of its ambiance, amenities, and accessibility, the destination has become a go-to for business professionals on a midday meeting or friends on a weekend martini retreat. Idealistic outdoor décor makes this space a standout, fitting perfectly into the vibe of old Hollywood luxury with contemporary twists. Take a summertime, afternoon dip in the bar’s concrete pool if you’re feeling adventurous. Once you dry off, return in the evening for lovingly curated cocktails and nightly events—think DJs, live bands, book release parties, pop-up shops, and creative collaborations of all kinds.

Lekker Lounge

Lekker Lounge is one of DTLA’s newest and fastest-rising stars on the nightlife scene. This wonderland-themed hookah bar is not to be taken lightly, with a full stage and music performance area to really get shit cracking. Just recently, the venue welcomed South Korea’s Keith Ape to take the stage and local rap tycoons Slay Squad did the same. A standout attraction of this unique venue is found in Lekker Lounge’s alcohol-infused boba, a favorite of the venue’s new legion of fans that has surfaced after the re-opening and revamping of the space earlier this year. Come for the hookah and infused boba, stay for the live shows and ridiculous amount of quality selfie opportunities.

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