Even if you wind up at Baldoria by yourself, you won't be alone for long—the Little Tokyo cocktail bar and tapas lounge is primed for making friends and sharing food with strangers. One drink that you might have a hard time sharing, though, is the Smokey Negroni. Like all cocktails here, the negroni is batched, bottled and numbered twice a week, which cuts down on waiting time. Made with Del Maguey mezcal, Aperol, St. Germain, Carpano Antica and a sliver of orange peel, the drink is perfect for those who prefer smokiness over Campari's traditionally sweet notes.
The negroni is so beloved that there is an entire week dedicated to celebrating (and, of course, imbibing) the bittersweet Italian cocktail—but that doesn't mean you should restrict your negroni drinking to seven days in June. Traditionally made with gin, vermouth and Campari, the classic cocktail is a refreshing respite throughout the year, whether you're clinking glasses on a sunny rooftop bar or grabbing dinner at an Italian restaurant. To find the top negronis in LA, check out this guide to one of the best cocktails around.
RECOMMENDED: A guide to cocktails in Los Angeles