
Dating in Los Angeles is quite the adventure… Like any great city, the opportunities to meet someone are practically endless, especially through apps. But what if you want to go out and meet that person who makes your heart race the old-fashioned way? If you’re someone who prefers breaking the ice with a “hello, how are you?” instead of swiping right, then you should give these bars a shot, where someone might just want to be your Valentine!
1. Hinano Café
Hinano Café is an iconic restaurant in Venice Beach, famous for being the place where none other than Jim Morrison loved to spend his nights. Known for this and its delicious burgers, the spot has a funky atmosphere, with beer, games, and live music, attracting both locals and many (many) internationals alike. So, if you’re looking to meet someone from other corners of the world, this could be your place.
📍 Location: 15 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292
2. The Let’s Go! Disco & Cocktail Club
Flamboyant, retro, and fun! This bar features neon lights, stucco arches, and, of course, spinning disco balls, all adding to the vibe. While the dancing picks up after 9pm when the DJs take over, it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid the lines. This will give you the chance to mingle with others and later reflect on why it took you so long to get hooked on Italian disco music.
📍 Location: 710 E 4th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90013
3. The Bungalow
Sophisticated but with a rustic touch, like a luxurious treehouse with ocean views. That’s The Bungalow, a bar at Santa Monica’s Fairmont Hotel where you can enjoy delicious (though not very affordable) cocktails and games that are the perfect opportunity to meet people, like darts, ping-pong, and pool. On weekends, the place gets packed, so if you actually want to have a conversation, we recommend coming on a weekday.
📍 Location: 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
4. Bigfoot Lodge
Cozy, with wooden decor, this place will make you feel like you’re in a real cabin in the woods, right in the middle of the city. While the vibe is lively and the music sets the mood, it’s not too loud, so you can actually strike up a conversation at the bar while enjoying a delicious cocktail.
📍 Location: 10939 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90034
5. El Prado
El Prado keeps things pretty laid-back during the week, but come the weekend, it transforms into a lively scene with a DJ spinning records and a buzzing crowd. Striking up a conversation with strangers won’t feel awkward… Unless you make it awkward!
📍 Location: 1805 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
6. Clifton’s Republic
Stepping into this legendary spot feels like traveling back in time, with its cozy lounge setting offering the perfect chance to strike up a conversation with strangers, and maybe even treat them to a drink. Clifton’s remains as whimsical and theatrical as ever, and if it’s your first visit, expect a full sensory overload. Take a moment to explore before deciding where to settle in for a drink.
📍 Location: 648 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
7. Desert 5 Spot
This Western-inspired bar in the heart of Hollywood offers a surprisingly perfect mix: stunning city views, live rock and country music, and a rare L.A. crowd that fully embraces the theme without a hint of irony. On Wednesdays, the slowest night of the week, country fans gather for lively line dancing classes.
📍 Location: 6516 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
8. Harvard & Stone
Harvard & Stone keeps things surprisingly low-key and easy to get into, but make no mistake:it’s a blast! Most nights feature live music, late-night DJs, and a makeshift dance floor that quickly turns wild. The crowd is effortlessly cool, laid-back, and always up for a good time. Its factory-like vibe sets the stage for inventive cocktails, and on some nights, you can even catch a burlesque performance.
📍 Location: 5221 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
9. The Obscure
If you’re looking for something more than just drinks this Valentine’s Day, The Obscure: Distillery & Cocktail Experience blends storytelling and mixology in a two-hour guided tasting. California’s first distillery-operated cocktail bar, The Obscure includes three house-distilled spirits and three original cocktails, each accompanied by immersive narratives. And the venue’s fantasy-inspired atmosphere is a magical setting that will make you and that special someone feel like you’ve traveled to another realm. For more information and to book your spot, click here!
📍Location: 1356 Palmetto Street
10. Café Triste
Don’t let the name fool you—Café Triste is anything but sad. This vibrant wine bar boasts natural wines, artfully plated bites, and gorgeous floral arrangements. With a selection of crisp, aromatic drinks and seasonal snacks, it’s a must-see, especially on weekends.
📍 Location: 980 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012
11. Melody Lounge
Melody Lounge in Chinatown is the perfect spot to meet friendly strangers and talkative bartenders, sporting beanies, high socks, and penny loafers. A blend of dive bar and minimalist cocktail lounge, it keeps the vibe lively with vinyl spinning in the corner every night.
📍 Location: 939 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012