Los Angeles, a city known for its sunshine, celebrities, and vibrant culinary scene, also boasts a thriving wine bar culture. From intimate, dimly lit spaces to expansive rooftop venues, LA offers a diverse range of wine bars catering to every taste and preference. This comprehensive guide explores 27 of the best wine bars the city has to offer, highlighting their unique atmosphere, wine selections, and food pairings.
Exploring LA's Diverse Wine Bar Landscape
Los Angeles' wine bar scene is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you're seeking a romantic date night spot, a place to unwind after work, or a venue for a lively gathering with friends, you'll find a wine bar perfectly suited to your needs. This list caters to various preferences, from cozy neighborhood gems to upscale establishments.
Top Wine Bars by Neighborhood
To help you navigate the vast LA wine scene, we've categorized these top 27 wine bars by neighborhood:
West Hollywood
- The Spare Room: This upscale bowling alley and bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere with an extensive wine list. Expect classic cocktails alongside a carefully curated selection of wines.
- Gracias Madre: While known for its vegan Mexican cuisine, Gracias Madre boasts a surprisingly impressive wine list, featuring organic and biodynamic options.
- The Abbey: A West Hollywood institution, The Abbey is a vibrant and popular spot with a diverse wine selection to complement its extensive cocktail menu.
Beverly Hills
- Wally's: This high-end market and wine bar offers an unparalleled selection of wines, with knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through the vast offerings. Expect a luxurious and sophisticated experience.
- The Polo Lounge: Located within the Beverly Hills Hotel, The Polo Lounge offers a classic, elegant setting with a refined wine list.
Downtown LA
- Cole's: A historic Downtown LA establishment, Cole's offers a classic American menu with a decent wine list, making it a great option for a casual yet sophisticated experience.
- The Varnish: Hidden behind a seemingly unassuming cocktail bar, The Varnish boasts a speakeasy atmosphere and a well-curated wine list.
- WP24 by Wolfgang Puck: Located high atop the Ritz-Carlton, WP24 offers stunning city views alongside a sophisticated wine list and upscale Asian cuisine.
Santa Monica
- The Albright: Located in a historic building, The Albright offers a stylish and sophisticated setting with an impressive wine list.
- Fritto Misto: This Italian restaurant and wine bar offers a lively atmosphere with a great selection of Italian wines to pair with its delicious menu.
Culver City
- Bar Stella: Bar Stella is a popular Culver City spot known for its delicious Italian-inspired dishes and thoughtfully curated wine list.
Other Neighborhoods
We've included additional fantastic wine bars throughout LA below:
- Otium (Downtown LA): A Michelin-recommended restaurant with a world-class wine program.
- Wine House (Pasadena): Known for its curated selection of natural wines.
- Domaine LA (Mid-City): Offers a unique blend of a French wine bar and a contemporary restaurant.
- A.O.C. (West Hollywood): A classic wine bar with a focus on natural wines and California wines.
- Palihouse West Hollywood (West Hollywood): Chic hotel with a beautiful wine bar and courtyard.
- Red Medicine (Culver City): Asian-inspired restaurant and bar with an impressive wine list.
- The Tasting Kitchen (Venice): Rustic Italian restaurant with an extensive and well-chosen wine list.
- Mélisse (Santa Monica): Upscale restaurant with a renowned wine cellar.
- Republique (Mid-City): Classic French restaurant with a curated wine list.
- The Pikey (West Hollywood): Popular British-style pub with a good selection of wines.
- No Vacancy (Hollywood): Quirky and fun bar with a surprisingly good wine selection.
- Gwen (Hollywood): Butchery and restaurant with a fantastic wine program.
- Felix Trattoria (Venice): Roman-inspired trattoria with a carefully selected wine list.
- Gjelina (Venice): Popular Venice restaurant with a great patio and a lovely wine selection.
- Jon & Vinny's (Fairfax): Classic Italian-American restaurant with a well-curated wine list.
- Bestia (Downtown LA): Italian restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas and excellent wine program.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wine Bar
When choosing a wine bar in Los Angeles, consider the following factors:
- Atmosphere: Do you prefer a romantic, intimate setting or a lively, social atmosphere?
- Wine Selection: Are you looking for a specific type of wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir, or do you prefer a more diverse selection?
- Food Pairings: Does the wine bar offer food pairings or a full menu?
- Price Range: Wine bars in Los Angeles range in price from affordable to upscale.
- Location: Consider the proximity of the wine bar to your home or other destinations.
This guide provides a starting point for your exploration of LA's exceptional wine bar scene. Each bar offers a unique experience, so be sure to explore and find your new favorite spot! Remember to check websites for hours, reservations, and specific wine lists before your visit. Enjoy your wine tasting journey through the City of Angels!
