Introduction: When the Bar is the Blockbuster
Let’s cut to the chase: Hollywood isn’t just about red carpets and Oscar winners. It’s also where you can sip a craft IPA next to someone who might’ve been in a Marvel movie. But here’s the catch—picking the right bar is like choosing the right sequel. Some are classics, some are cringe. So if you’re ready to trade your “I’m in Hollywood” line for an actual experience, read on. (And hey, if you’re here just for the puns, you’re in the right place.)
Need more help navigating this wild ride? Check out our Make Your Own Beer guide for DIY tips, or Custom Beer if you want to impress your date with a branded brew.
1. The Bar Where Celebs Come to Hide (And You Can Too)
Picture this: You’re in a spot where Brad Pitt sips his Old Fashioned, and you’re wondering if the bartender is actually an ex from his past. That’s The Viper Room, a legendary Hollywood bar that’s more “where the real drama happens” than “where the paparazzi follow.”
Why it’s epic: It’s a vibe. The moody lighting, the vintage charm, and the fact that your Instagram story might just outshine your actual career. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot someone who’s definitely not from the neighborhood. (Spoiler: They’ll probably pretend they don’t recognize you.)
Pro tip: Arrive early or dress like you’re avoiding a reality show. The doorman isn’t judging you, he’s just trying to avoid a TikTok viral moment.
Address: 6521 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90028
2. The ‘I’m Not a Bar, I’m a Concept’ Spot
Enter Barry’s Bootcamp (not the gym). Wait—no, that’s not right. Okay, let’s go with The Hollywood Roosevelt Bar. This isn’t just a bar; it’s a time machine to 1955, complete with a rooftop pool and a view of the Walk of Fame. It’s like the bar version of a Wes Anderson film—if Wes Anderson sipped margaritas and forgot where he parked his car.
Why it’s epic: You can pretend you’re Marlene Dietrich ordering a martini. The bar is steps away from the pool where old-school stars chilled, and the vibe is so chill, even your ex would probably enjoy it. Plus, the hotel’s history is basically a Wikipedia page in a bottle.
Pro tip: Skip the pool if you’re not a celebrity. Just sit at the bar and order a “Roosevelt Special”—it’s the only cocktail that’s older than your Netflix password.
Address: 7000 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
3. The ‘I’m Trendy but I Try Not to Show It’ Hangout
Alright, let’s talk about The Hoxton, Hollywood Bar. This spot is like the cool older sibling of the bar world—it’s got the Instagram aesthetic, the curated playlist, and the ability to make kale smoothies taste like a $15 experience.
Why it’s epic: It’s where you go to feel like you’re in a Sofia Coppola movie. The bar has that “I’m artsy but also a bit of a hipster” vibe, and the cocktail menu is basically a chemistry experiment. If you order the “Hoxton Mule,” you’ll leave feeling like you’ve been to a bodega and a speakeasy at the same time.
Pro tip: Arrive with a group of friends who’ve never heard of “over-caffeinated” and order the “L.A. Experience” flight. It’s $30, but it’ll make you feel like you’ve paid for a college lecture on bartending.
Address: 6941 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
4. The ‘I’m Too Cool for a Playlist’ Bar
Let’s switch gears to Barry’s Bootcamp (yes, the gym). Wait, no—this is a bar. Oh, right, the gym has a bar. Wait, are we even in Hollywood anymore? Never mind. Check out Sunset Tower Bar instead. It’s the kind of place where the DJ plays vinyl but acts like it’s a secret.
Why it’s epic: The rooftop view is like a postcard that forgot to look like a postcard. The drinks are strong, the vibes are stronger, and the people are here because they know that “vibing” isn’t just a TikTok hashtag. Plus, the skyline at sunset is so good, it’ll make you question why you ever paid for a sunset cruise.
Pro tip: Arrive after 10 PM. The crowd gets so chill, you’ll start wondering if this is actually a bar or just a really fancy waiting room for a party that never happens.
Address: 8080 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
5. The ‘I Have a Problem with My Problems’ Bar
Let’s face it: Hollywood is full of people who have problems. But if you want to join the club, go to El Cid. This place is a legend—not because it’s trendy, but because it’s been around since the ‘30s. The walls are covered in autographs from stars who’ve probably forgotten they signed them.
Why it’s epic: It’s like a time capsule for rock ‘n’ roll. The jukebox is louder than your ex’s texts, and the bar menu is so simple, it’s basically a flowchart for ordering a drink. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear the jukebox play “Hotel California” at least three times in a row.
Pro tip: Order the “El Cid Special”—it’s a mystery, but it’s probably better than your dating life. And don’t ask about the autographs; some secrets are better left in the dark.
Address: 8823 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
FAQs: The Real Questions You’re Asking (But Afraid to Out Loud)
- Q: Is it weird to go to these bars alone?
A: Only if you care. Hollywood is full of people who’ve been alone before. The doormen won’t judge you—they’ve seen everything from solo tourists to A-listers who forgot their own names.
- Q: Should I dress like a celebrity to fit in?
A: No, just dress like you’re pretending to be one. Hollywood’s a place of reinvention, and your outfit doesn’t need to be a red carpet winner—as long as it’s not your gym clothes.
- Q: What if I run into someone famous?
A: Smile, say “hi,” and move on. They’ll probably forget you faster than you forget your last Netflix password. But hey, if they remember you, you’re doing something right.
Call to Action: Drink Like You Mean It
So there you have it—the bars where Hollywood’s magic meets your next adventure. Whether you’re here for the vibes, the view, or the chance to forget your own name, these spots have you covered. And if you’re thinking, “What if I want to make my own beer to serve at my bar?”—check out our Make Your Own Beer guide. Or if you’re ready to Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer, we’ve got your back.
Still need help? Contact us—we’re here to answer your questions (and maybe your ex’s questions too). And if you’re a bar owner looking to sell your brews to the stars, Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer. After all, Hollywood dreams are best served with a cocktail in hand.
Conclusion: The Final Toast
Hollywood bars are more than just places to drink—they’re where stories are made, and where you get to pretend you’re the main character. Whether you’re sipping a margarita at the Roosevelt or dodging paparazzi at The Viper Room, remember: the real magic isn’t in the bar itself, but in the memories you make (and the Instagram stories you post).
Now go out there, find your spot, and maybe—just maybe—accidentally meet someone who’s been on a reality show. You’re welcome.
