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Photograph: Jakob N. LaymanLuna Vine

The best bars in Burbank

Looking for a drink post-studio tour? Stop by one of these bars in Burbank for quality suds, cocktails and wine.

Written by
Erin Kuschner
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There's a quiet, suburban feel to Burbank, a city known for its studio tours, mountainous backdrop and an abundance of retro diners. Its bar scene has that same old-school vibe, with dives and sports bars peppering the streets. Visit a spot a few times and the bartenders will surely know your name; become a consistent regular and they'll know your whole life story. Of course, there are themed spots too, like a Western saloon—this is an industry town, after all. The next time you find yourself in this Valley hood in need of a drink, head to one of these Burbank bars for a low-key booze session.

RECOMMENDED: Our full guide to Burbank

Best places to drink in Burbank

  • Bars
  • Pubs
  • Burbank
  • price 1 of 4
This laidback spot—one of the few late-night hangs and even fewer vegan-friendly options in Burbank—has gained a loyal cult following since opening in 2010. Find a large selection of sausages (both vegan and meat varieties) and sides like Disco fries with gravy and cheddar. But the star of the show here is the beer; the eco-friendly, bottle-free bar has 38 taps and serves only California brews. Drink up and relax with friends by playing pool or, naturally, darts. Tony's also hosts events like "Trivia Night with Geeks Who Drink" or its weekly "Beers & Beats" night where you can bring in your own vinyl collection to DJ.
  • Bars
  • Wine bars
  • San Fernando Valley
  • price 2 of 4
Between the top-notch vino and engaging staff, this Magnolia Park gem is just the boîte to awaken your palate. The staff has put together a score of excellent varietals—from a Santa Barbara calm, cool and collected 2010 White Hawk Cordon Syrah to Coto de Hayas' brazenly bold 2011 "Garnacha Centenaria." Guests would be remiss not to sip these alongside small plates off executive chef Wes Pumphrey's carefully curated American-Mediterranean menu: try the lamb meatballs, the charcuterie and cheese boards, and the pistachio biscotti with a side of spiced chocolate for dessert. Take advantage of "studio hour" from 4-6pm, when there are half-off specials on selected wines and beers.
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  • Bars
  • Gastropubs
  • Burbank
Simmzy's is now in locations all over LA—a few spots in the South Bay, along with Venice—but this Burbank location is by far the snazziest. Almost diner-like in its decor, the gastropub features red tufted swivel stools at the bar and patterned benches in a small lounge area. Water skis and a hodgepodge of taxidermy decorate the walls, giving the place a beach-meets-lodge vibe, though there are still the requisite TVs mounted throughout the place. Simmzy's is known for its beer selection, so study the ever-changing roster of brews—which include both local and national options—before ordering one of their standout burgers or veggie bowls.
  • Bars
  • Pubs
  • Burbank
  • price 1 of 4
The Snug is your classic Irish pub meets dive bar: sticky floors, amicable bartenders, cheap drinks. Classic board games are available if you're in the mood for some mental stimulation, or you can just put a few dollar bills in the jukebox and start your own dance party. There are well drinks, craft beer and free pretzels, along with a surprisingly solid whiskey collection. And, of course, all the Guinness. Sláinte!
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  • Bars
  • Gastropubs
  • Burbank
  • price 2 of 4
Grab your cowboy hat, strap on your boots and practice your best gun twirls (JK, leave the gun at home, please) before heading over to Tinhorn Flats, a themed watering hole in Burbank that channels the Wild Wild West. Bust through the saloon doors to a casual bar boasting plenty of TVs (Chicago fans, you'll find all your teams being played here), where a hefty selection of both bourbon and tequila is available. Try the Saloon Peach Tea, made with Ole Smoky peach moonshine, and keep yourself well fed with one of the Flats' outstanding burgers or sandwiches.
  • Bars
  • Dive bars
  • Burbank
  • price 1 of 4
Although it's featured in several movies, this old-school hangout still manages to stay below the radar. Regulars dominate the place, sipping on cheap drinks and making friendly conversation with any newcomers who stop by. Matronly waitresses tend to customers like they're extended family, and the digital jukebox ensures a broad and varied soundtrack. You're mostly ordering PBRs here, but there's a solid beer list, too. Bonus: Blue Room has (free!) parking in the back in case you can't find a spot on the street.
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  • Bars
  • Lounges
  • Burbank
Feeling the urge to channel your emotions through song? Sardo's is where it's at. The bar hosts karaoke seven nights a week, with more than 20,000 song titles to choose from and every level of talent imagineable. A robust food and drink menu, along with plenty of TVs, make it a solid place to watch your favorite team for the afternoon, and as day turns into night, a lively crowd fills up the space. A mid-morning happy hour starts at 10am—seriously—and lasts until 4pm; score well drinks for $3.50 and beers for $3 during that time. It's day drinking at its finest.
  • Bars
  • Dive bars
  • Burbank
  • price 1 of 4
Plenty of bar seating, darts, a stacked jukebox and all the cocktails and beer your thirsty heart could want are kept inside a small watering hole on the corner of San Fernando Blvd and Alameda Ave. Here you'll find Burbank residents chatting up their favorite bartenders and scarfing down burgers, sandwiches and combo plates (vegetarians, there's plenty for you here, too). There's a smoking patio if you need it, and plenty of games (Jenga, anyone?) to keep you here long after your beer is gone.
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