Check Out The Best Outdoor Drinking Spots In L.A.
Raise a glass to summer at these outdoor drinking spots
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Relaxing in the shade, drink in hand: It's what half of the songs ever written about L.A. celebrate. Partake in the local summertime tradition at these eight spots–some well known, some under the radar, but all worth the trip.
| DESTINATION | WHY YOU SHOULD DRINK THERE |
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Hinoki & the Bird
(Century City) |
David Myers recruited NYC bartender Sam Ross (Milk & Honey) to design a stellar list of classic cocktails with tropical flair, like a Negroni made with Jamaican rum. On the patio, a tall, vine-covered trellis keeps things cool during the day, while a heated cement floor warms chilly nights. 10 Century Dr., Century City; 310-552-1200 |
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Venice Beach Wines
(Venice) |
The vast wine selection spans the globe, but the breezy porch is pure California. By-the-glass options are well curated and inexpensive, meaning you'll have more money to spend on panini and charcuterie plates. 529 Rose Ave., Venice; 310-606-2529 |
| Perch (Downtown) | In a city filled with gimmicky rooftop bars, high-up French bistro Perch actually delivers the goods. It boasts stunning views of the Central Library, with a cocktail list that emphasizes Cognac and classic aperitifs. Stay after the sun drops for live music. 448 S. Hill St., Downtown; 213-802-1770 |
| Red Lion Tavern (Silverlake) | This iconic outdoor German biergarten gets packed on weekends, so claim a table early. In true Oktoberfest form, load up on bratwurst, schnitzel and sauerkraut to soak up your stein of Späten. And tip your waitress: Slinging liters of lager in lederhosen ain't easy. 2366 Glendale Blvd., Silver Lake; 323-662-5337 |
| Short Order (Mid-City) | Sure, the second story of Nancy Silverton's burger joint has charming views of the Original Farmers' Market, but let's be honest: You're here for the boozy milkshakes. Flavors range from bourbon with chocolate-covered peanuts to crème de menthe with crushed Thin Mints. 6333 W. 3rd St., Mid-City; 323-761-7970 |
|
(Atwater Village) |
The reasons to visit this expansive warehouse brewpub on a sunny day abound: loads of picnic seating, lawn games and, of course, a terrific variety of craft beer brewed a few steps away. Per tradition, raise a toast every time a train whistles by on the nearby tracks. 5410 W. San Fernando Rd., Atwater Village; 213-373-4677 |
|
The Escondite
(Little Tokyo) |
Tucked into an unmarked building on the edge of Little Tokyo, this laid-back neighborhood patio never gets too crowded, even with its postcard views of the Downtown skyline. The whiskey and beer selections are choice, as are the buffalo-fried mushrooms. And did we mention the free parking? 10 Boyd St., Downtown; 213-626-1800 |
| The Eveleigh (West Hollywood) | This Australian-owned restaurant bills itself as having L.A.'s best patio dining and, in fairness, it might be right. Imagine a cozy farmhouse stripped of its far wall, looking out over the city from atop the Sunset Strip. Throw in delicious cocktails and a weekly guest bartender series, and you've got a must-visit summertime bar. 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood; 424-239-1630 |