Best Bars On Melrose Avenue
For years, the area on Melrose Ave. between La Brea and Fairfax have been the home of the best watering holes in Los Angeles. As time went on, some have come and gone but from dive bars to more upscale drinking spots, locals and visitors alike flock to this area to grab drinks at spots perfect for catching a ball game, a singles night out or to just throw back some cold ones on a Sunday afternoon. Here are our picks for the best ones to check out.
The Village Idiot
7383 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 655-3331
www.villageidiotla.com
A staple of the Melrose scene, The Village Idiot is a popular spot for twenty and thirty somethings who enjoy an extensive drink list along with a selection of some of the best craft beers in town. Between it's brick decor, comfortable booths and solid oak bar, the Idiot oozes class. If that's not enough, the menu, though a bit pricey for some, is easily some of the best gastropub-type grub you'll get at any bar in town. For sports fans, the bar opens early for soccer, so if you're the type that likes a beer and an English breakfast, this is the place for you.
Melgard Public House
7505 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(310) 923-1608
The one thing that Melrose has for people who want to grab a drink is variety. Melgard Public House offers that and then some. There may be better happy hours across town, but it's unlikely that one will offer you a free personal pizza to snack on to go along with an ice cold beer. The space is terrific; it's patio one of the most relaxing places to chill even as rush hour crawls along the congested streets. Add to that a friendly, knowledgeable staff, it's no wonder why Melgard has become one Melrose's most popular watering holes.
Darkroom
7302 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 931-3800
Not just a clever name, the ambiance of this bar is well, dark. But it's a great space located smack in the middle of the Melrose strip, DarKRoom has been a favorite for a half decade. With a jukebox that has songs of yesterday and today that plays three songs for a buck, there are always great tunes emanating from the room that is audible from the street. Let's not forget about the photo booth, where you can take awkward photos that you may or may not regret because of the great drinks from their great barkeeps.
Melrose Umbrella Co
7465 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 951-0709
www.melroseumbrellaco.com
While some may prefer the classic straight-up drinks and beers, Melrose Umbrella Co specializes in the art of the mixologist. By that, this bar's strength lies in its ability to create unique (and, if you're lucky, customized drinks for your group) beverages that make not only for a great time, but also provide a more refined experience for the cocktail connoisseur. With a terrific wait staff and a laid back setting that would be at home a century ago, don't be surprised if the hip and famous inhabit this place sooner than later.
The Parlor
7250 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 930-2100
www.theparlorca.com
If you're in the mood to catch a college football or NFL game, The Parlor is the place to go. A huge space with a patio separating the two bar areas, the Parlor isn't necessarily or even considered a traditional sports bar, but it's done a great job morphing into one of the area's most popular. When a team scores, expect the bar to erupt in joy, and the same goes for the despair of defeat. One catch: you should probably make a reservation in advance or you could be table less or even worse, left out on the street.