The best new bars in Los Angeles to try right now

What is it? A moody date-night spot that reaches for East Asia in its drinks while sliding out thin, puffy-crust pizzas that barely contain their toppings.

Why we love it: From Michelin-star chef and serial restaurateur Josh Skenes, it’s no surprise Lynx almost immediately earned a Bib Gourmand from the tire company. Despite delicious pizzas — often piled with decadent toppings, such as enough pecorino for a small banquet — this space shines as a cocktail destination thanks to beverage director Brandyn Tepper. Familiar drinks like old fashioneds get a smoky redux, rhubarb brings a summery lilt to your negroni, and daiquiris get a little more tart with sudachis subbing in for limes. Seating is limited, bordering on awkward, so think less “drop in” and more “intentional hang,” complete with a reservation.

Time Out tip: All drinks are $20, and they can all be made without alcohol.

Address: 427 S Hewitt St., Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 5pm–11pm

What is it? A vinyl craft cocktail bar from the Gold Line crew for when you want to talk.

Why we love it: Palomino sits somewhere between Gold Line’s drinks program and El Prado’s Thursday night vibe. More toned down than its sibling bar, Palomino’s stained glass light fixtures and glittering disco ball strike a nostalgic chord without going full kitsch. In the old ETA spot on Figueroa, you can have a $3 High Life pony or an $18 Limonada that lives in a herbal beach shack somewhere between a Saturn and a Brazilian lemonade. Though there’s a reasonably priced beer list, some bartenders’ attitudes towards off-menu drinks and wells make you wonder which part of Highland Park they’re catering to. Surely, Figueroa doesn’t need another cocktail bar, but it could do a lot worse.

Time Out tip: Thursday through Saturday nights already have consistent DJ lineups, but it hasn’t yet turned into the full Gold Line weekend crush.

Address: 5630 N Figueroa, Los Angeles, CA 90042

Opening hours: Mon, Tue 5pm–midnight; Wed, Thu 5pm–1am; Fri, Sat 5pm–2am; Sun 5pm–midnight

What is it? A nautical-themed lounge with Cheers energy and well-priced classic cocktails.

Why we love it: Whether you’re strolling from the beach or looking for a nightcap after a dinner at sibling restaurant Golden Bull, there’s a seat for you at Friendship Bar. You can’t miss the shipshape bar from the street with its protruding bow and porthole windows, and the theme continues in earnest once you step inside. In addition to the main, booth-lined bar area, you’ll find a back deck and an upstairs lounge area that can be reserved for private events. The current menu includes $15 classic cocktails like manhattans and martinis served in some of the nicest glassware around for a sub-$20 drink. Ultimately, this neighborhood spot seems focused on being as accessible as possible to the community it serves.

Time Out tip: Afternoons and early evenings are a little slower-paced, occasionally offset by jazz or the hushed tones of locals, while the late worm gets the party vibes.

Address: 112 West Channel Rd, Santa Monica, CA 90402

Opening hours: Mon, Thu 5pm–late; Fri 5pm–2am; Sat, Sun 2pm–2am

What is it? A queer bar with outdoor space in the Arts District.

Why we love it: After taking over the old Resident venue, Animal’s success in New York City has already translated into a considerable following. The sprawling, smoke-friendly patio, shaded by a canopy of trees, is the perfect place to escape the heat of the dance floor with friends or someone new. An Airstream trailer serves as the outdoor bar while the indoor bar offers a view of a giant banana disco ball above the industrial dance floor. Drinks are solid in the increasingly standard $15–17 range, but wine, spritzes on tap, and beer hit your wallet with a little lube. A fairly robust non-alcoholic menu largely costs $10 or less, including mocktails that aren’t just dressed-up sodas. The patio also hosts pop-up vendors and food trucks for your emotional-support splurge or dose of grease.

Time Out tip: Thursdays through Sundays typically have DJs with no cover; otherwise, the inside bar is likely closed.

Address: 428 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opening hours: Tue–Fri 4pm–2am; Sat, Sun 2pm-2am

What is it? A wine and amaro bar cosplaying as Rooftop Cinema Club.

Why we love it: Tucked in and above one of the busiest intersections in the Arts District, you’ll find a rare rooftop oasis. Cineopera offers a strong selection of amari and wine, whether you want to lounge during the day or settle in for a movie after dark. A tight food menu makes sure you won’t get peckish and there’s still a full bar ready for you to put its amari to work. Though it's an interesting direction to take in the old Cha Cha Cha space, it brings something unique to an area that’s increasingly packed with a few versions of the same venue.

Time Out tip: Tables and seating are first-come, first-served, but you can reserve a screen seat for $5 if you want an unobstructed view. 

Address: 812 E 3rd St, Second Fl, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opening hours: Wed–Sun 5pm–late