Best Cocktail Bars in Downtown LA
Updated June 16, 2026 · Ranked by combined rating and review volume
Where to find the best cocktail bars in Downtown LA
Perch offers a truly glamorous rooftop experience, perfect for special occasions or a romantic date night, boasting breathtaking views of the city. Guests rave about the delicious French-inspired small plates and the expertly crafted cocktails, all served by an attentive and welcoming staff.
Seven Grand is a stylish downtown watering hole, renowned for its extensive whiskey selection and classic cocktails served in a unique hunting lodge-inspired setting. It offers a chill, old-time vibe, complete with pool tables and a dedicated cigar smoking patio, making it ideal for a relaxed night out with friends.
Good Clean Fun stands out as a vibrant wine bar celebrated for its exceptional selection of natural wines and perfect food pairings, including delicious dishes like their acclaimed Caesar salad and tasty meatballs. This amazing venue, featuring a wonderful patio, is not only a fantastic spot for date night but also highly recommended for hosting memorable private events.
Everson Royce Bar is a polished cocktail destination offering a fantastic selection of bar bites, with standout dishes like their unforgettable biscuits, juicy burgers, and satisfying chicken wings, perfect for a casual yet refined experience. Guests consistently praise the delicious food, great happy hour deals, and the welcoming, friendly staff who ensure a pleasant visit.
The Wolves
The Wolves offers a glamorous and visually stunning experience, featuring antique decor and 1910s accents that create a dark yet stylish atmosphere. This must-visit spot in Downtown LA is celebrated for its innovative, well-balanced cocktails, including signature creations like the Agua Buena, alongside excellent American fare and top-notch service.
Contenders
Places submitted by the community. The top contender with more points than #5 gets promoted.
How we ranked the best cocktail bars in Downtown LA
Every place on this list is scored by a Bayesian weighted formula combined with a volume bonus. It rewards consistent positive feedback at scale, not just a high average rating — a 4.9-star place with 12 reviews ranks below a 4.6-star place with 800.
score = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × C + γ × log₁₀(v)
The prior m adapts to each neighborhood: it's the median review count among local candidates. So 200 reviews counts as “small sample” in dense markets like the West Village, but “solid” in quieter neighborhoods. Places with extreme review volume that clearly dominate their peers are promoted to #1. No paid placements — every spot earns its position via the public data.
Frequently asked about Downtown LA cocktail bars
What is the highest-rated cocktail bar in Downtown LA?
Good Clean Fun has the highest Google rating in our list of the best cocktail bars in Downtown LA, with 4.9 stars across 341 reviews.
Which cocktail bar in Downtown LA has the most reviews?
Perch has the most reviews of any cocktail bar on this list — 7,543 ratings averaging 4.4 stars on Google.
How are the best cocktail bars in Downtown LA ranked?
Each place is scored using a Bayesian weighted formula that combines its average Google rating with its review count. This pulls small-sample places toward the local mean — so a 4.9-star spot with 12 reviews is ranked below a 4.6-star spot with 800 reviews. Volume and consistency matter, not just an inflated average.
When was this ranking last updated?
This ranking of the best cocktail bars in Downtown LA was last refreshed in June 2026 using the latest Google ratings and review counts. Restaurants and bars change constantly — always verify hours and current status before visiting.
Why isn't my favorite cocktail bar on the list of best cocktail bars in Downtown LA?
To be considered, a place needs enough Google reviews for the rating to be statistically meaningful (at least 5 reviews, ideally 25+). Newer or hyper-local spots can be excellent but score lower until enough people review them. Boundaries also matter — a spot just outside the Downtown LA area may show up on a neighboring ranking instead.