Need the best cocktail party spots LA has to offer? You’re in luck! LA’s perfect year-round weather makes it a cocktail paradise, with endless outdoor drinking spots to explore.
The search for your ideal celebration space might feel daunting at first. Downtown LA’s spectacular hidden gems cater to parties of every size. San Laurel’s stylish indoor space sits on the 10th floor of Conrad Los Angeles and welcomes up to 144 guests. To name just one example, see Settecento DTLA – it takes you through Italy’s culinary heritage and fits an impressive 3,000 guests for a complete buyout.
LA’s cocktail venues work great for both small gatherings and grand celebrations. Some intimate spaces like the El Nido room seat just 14 people, while garden patios can host up to 100 party guests. On top of that, many spots offer indoor and outdoor buyout options that let you create your perfect event.
Want to find the coolest, most Instagram-worthy spots for your next celebration? Let’s head over to 15 hidden gem cocktail party venues that will make your LA gathering truly unforgettable.
Pez Cantina
Pez Cantina brings the excitement of Mexican seafood to downtown LA. This hidden gem combines amazing food with beautiful event spaces that make every cocktail party special.
Pez Cantina
Pez Cantina brings the excitement of Mexican seafood to downtown LA. This hidden gem combines amazing food with beautiful event spaces that make every cocktail party special.

Pez Cantina Venue Highlights
Fresh Pacific Coast influences blend naturally with Mexican flavors at Pez Cantina. The restaurant at 401 S Grand Ave has become the perfect spot for everything from corporate events to wedding celebrations. Small gatherings and grand celebrations work equally well in this versatile space. The team creates individual-specific experiences that make every event memorable.
Pez Cantina Cocktail Menu
Mexican-inspired drinks with creative twists define the bar program here. The signature drinks shine with options like Margarita Classica made with tequila blanco and house-made sour. Guests love the fruity Chile Mango Margarita and the smoky Pez Paloma with fresh pressed grapefruit. These craft cocktails pair beautifully with coastal Mexican dishes, especially the crisp ceviches and flavorful tacos.
Pez Cantina Ambiance & Decor
This downtown Los Angeles gem welcomes guests into a lively atmosphere. A spectacular 750 porcelain fish chandelier serves as the centerpiece in the private dining room. Mexican hospitality meets sophisticated coastal elements to create the perfect backdrop for social gatherings.
Pez Cantina Event Capacity
Mid-sized cocktail parties fit perfectly in the private dining room that holds up to 40 guests. The venue adapts its space configurations for larger celebrations. Each area balances both function and style thoughtfully.
Pez Cantina Pricing & Booking Info
The team customizes event packages based on your priorities. Options range from tray-passed hors d’oeuvres to family-style service and coursed menus. Bookings are available at 213-258-2280 or through email at INFO@PEZCANTINA.COM. Validated valet parking costs $7.50 for 2 hours at the underground lot of 400 S Hope St.
Freehand Los Angeles
Freehand Los Angeles creates an amazing cocktail party experience from its home in the historic Commercial Exchange building downtown. This gem earned recognition as the #1 hotel in Los Angeles from Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award in 2020. The hotel’s unique spaces make every gathering memorable.

Freehand Los Angeles
Freehand Los Angeles creates an amazing cocktail party experience from its home in the historic Commercial Exchange building downtown. This gem earned recognition as the #1 hotel in Los Angeles from Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award in 2020. The hotel’s unique spaces make every gathering memorable.
Freehand Venue Highlights
The property at 416 W 8th Street blends historic charm with modern style. Multiple event spaces make it perfect to host celebrations of all sizes. The building’s rich history adds character to your cocktail party – it once housed the publishing offices of Tarzan creator Edgar Rice Burroughs.
Freehand Cocktail Menu
The Broken Shaker stands out as the crown jewel for cocktail lovers on the rooftop pool deck. This James Beard Award finalist and Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar winner serves handcrafted cocktails with homemade elixirs and exotic ingredients. Rudolph’s Bar & Tea in the lobby provides a different vibe with tea-infused cocktails, full tea service and light bites. Both bars have their own personality but share the same quality standards.
Freehand Ambiance & Decor
The renowned firm Roman & Williams created interiors that catch your eye everywhere you look. Jungle-inspired elements fill the lobby with potted cacti and wooden creatures next to an Aztec-style bar. The rooftop pool deck becomes your urban escape with stunning city views – the perfect spot to enjoy sunset cocktails.
Freehand Event Capacity
Each space welcomes different group sizes:
- The Exchange restaurant: 40-60 seated, 50-100 standing (1,300 sq ft)
- Broken Shaker rooftop: 75-100 seated, 100-250 standing (3,500 sq ft)
- The Treehouse: 25-45 seated, 50-60 standing (772 sq ft)
- Rudolph’s Bar & Tea: 25-50 seated, 100-150 standing (2,309 sq ft)
Freehand Pricing & Booking Info
Prices change based on timing and guest count. The Broken Shaker rooftop costs between $20,000-$45,000 during peak times and $15,000-$30,000 off-peak for 100-200 guests. The Treehouse gives you a budget-friendly option at $4,000-$12,000 peak and $2,500-$10,000 off-peak for 45-100 guests. Reach out directly to get your custom quote and check dates.
HATCH at The Bloc
HATCH brings Japanese-inspired dining to The Bloc’s modern shopping complex in downtown Los Angeles. This modern izakaya and yakitori bar blends traditional Japanese cooking with California flavors to create a perfect backdrop for cocktail gatherings.

HATCH Venue Highlights
The thoughtfully designed space at HATCH strikes a perfect balance between trendy esthetics and practical layout. The restaurant’s location at 700 W 7th St Suite G600 puts it right in The Bloc’s vibrant downtown scene. Creative sharing plates take center stage in this fun dining spot. The venue stands out with its focus on social dining where friends can gather around tasty food and exceptional drinks.
HATCH Cocktail Menu
Japanese influences shine through the beverage program. The bar serves handcrafted cocktails, artisanal sakes, and an impressive collection of rare Japanese whiskies. Guests can enjoy sake on tap along with eight carefully picked beers. These drinks pair beautifully with yakitori grilled over binchōtan charcoal, which adds unique smoky notes to each dish.
HATCH Ambiance & Decor
HATCH makes a strong first impression. A long row of tables with distinctive bulbous lighting runs alongside an expansive black quartz countertop from entrance to kitchen. Nara’s artistic background shapes the restaurant’s unique branding throughout. The space features well-planned mood lighting and generously spaced tables that create a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere.
HATCH Event Capacity
The venue offers several distinct spaces for events:
- Private Dining Room: Seats up to 18 guests at one communal table
- Old Man Bar: Intimate tavern setting with fireplace and vinyl music
- Main Dining Room & Inner Patio: Accommodates 50 seated or 70 standing guests
- Main Patio: Holds 60 seated or 100 standing guests
- Full Buyout: Impressive capacity for 250 seated or 300 standing guests
HATCH Pricing & Booking Info
Reach out to HATCH’s events team through their website form to plan your event. They’ll need your event details to provide customized pricing. Submit catering requests at least one week ahead. The restaurant welcomes guests Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., offering plenty of flexibility to schedule your next cocktail gathering.

San Laurel at Conrad
San Laurel sits proudly on the 10th floor of Conrad Los Angeles, bringing Michelin-starred chef José Andrés’ culinary vision to life. This elegant destination combines bold Spanish flavors with fresh California ingredients inside Frank Gehry’s striking architectural masterpiece.
San Laurel Venue Features
The restaurant’s breathtaking views of Walt Disney Concert Hall shine from its elevated position in downtown LA’s cultural corridor. José Andrés’ kitchen creates a culinary bridge between the Iberian Peninsula and Southern California. The team sources the freshest green produce from local farmers’ markets. The restaurant’s name comes from the aromatic bay laurel that made its journey from Mediterranean to California shores, symbolizing this cultural fusion.
San Laurel Cocktail Menu
Cocktail expert Miguel Lancha leads an impressive beverage program with creative interpretations of classic drinks. The menu has:
- Creative spins on classics like Pisco Sour and Mai Tai
- Original creations such as the Watermelon Report (vodka with a kick)
- A rich collection of Zero ABV cocktails for non-drinkers
Cool-climate, refreshing bottles from California, Spain, and beyond make up the wine selection.
San Laurel Ambiance & Decor
Soothing earth tones and lush greenery create an urban oasis feeling throughout the space. A vibrant bar anchors the room, while the fully opened facade brings in a breezy atmosphere. The polished tenth-floor setting provides unobstructed views, making it ideal to enjoy special events or pre-concert cocktails.
San Laurel Event Capacity
The venue offers flexible options for private events:
- Indoor space fits up to 144 seated guests
- Standing room accommodates 130 guests
- Indoor and outdoor buyout options available
San Laurel Pricing & Booking Info
Reach out at (213) 349-8585 to plan your event. The venue receives praise for its “attentive and knowledgeable” service, perfect for special occasions. Guests can find valet parking between 1st and 2nd on Olive. The restaurant recommends smart casual attire and can arrange private dining for intimate gatherings.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse creates an elegant atmosphere in downtown LA that’s perfect for your next cocktail event. The upscale venue combines beautiful spaces with excellent service and unforgettable food and drinks.
Fleming’s Venue Expresses
The restaurant sits in the heart of L.A. LIVE entertainment district and serves as an elegant destination for cocktail parties. Modern dining areas blend seamlessly with private spaces. Fleming’s reputation comes from its exceptional service and premium steakhouse cuisine. The staff collaborates with guests to create memorable events that leave lasting impressions.
Fleming’s Cocktail Menu
Premium spirits, wines, and craft cocktails make the bar program special. The menu features:
- Signature martinis with house infusions
- Small-batch bourbon flights
- Seasonal cocktails featuring fresh ingredients
Their “5 for $6 ’til 7” happy hour delivers great value with five cocktails, five wines by the glass, and five appetizers – each priced at $6 until 7 pm daily.
Fleming’s Ambiance & Decor
The space radiates sophistication with dark wood accents, soft lighting, and comfortable seating. Classic steakhouse charm fills the main dining room, while private areas provide intimate settings. Rich colors and warm tones create perfect evening gathering spaces. Wine displays stretch from floor to ceiling, adding visual appeal throughout.
Fleming’s Event Capacity
The private dining spaces can host:
- Wine Room: 16-32 guests
- Main Dining Room: Sectioned areas for 40-60 guests
- Full Buyout: Larger events up to 150 guests
Fleming’s Pricing & Booking Info
Cocktail receptions with premium appetizers start at $85 per person. Dinner packages range from $95-125 per person based on menu choices. Bar packages range from beer and wine service to premium open bars. The event coordinator can help at (213) 745-9911 with availability and custom quotes. Book 3-4 weeks ahead for smaller events. Larger buyouts need 2-3 months’ notice.
Settecento DTLA
Settecento DTLA brings authentic Italian flavors and historic charm together in a culinary masterpiece. This remarkable venue captures Italy’s essence right in downtown Los Angeles through its scratch-made cuisine and spectacular surroundings.
Settecento Venue Details
Settecento sits in the beautiful Maguire Gardens beside LA’s iconic Central Library, where architectural grandeur meets natural beauty. Manicured landscapes, elegant fountains, and striking architectural elements create perfect photo opportunities in the outdoor space. The venue welcomes both small gatherings and grand celebrations, which makes it a sought-after location for events of all types.
Settecento Cocktail Menu
The bar program takes Italian mixology to new heights with handcrafted specialty cocktails. Signature drinks include:
- Italian Dragon – featuring Whole Whale Gin, Italicus, and dragonfruit puree
- Sakurativo – Sakura Cherry Blossom Tea Infused Roku Gin
- Negroni – Gray Whale Gin, Campari, and Vya Sweet Vermouth
- Espresso Martini – Absolut Vanilla Vodka with Organic Peerless Cold Brew
Settecento Ambiance & Decor
Indoor elegance flows seamlessly into outdoor garden splendor. The space features a dining room and bar area inside, while the outdoor garden patio sparkles with chandeliers and fire-side tables. Guests often describe their experience as magical and romantic – perfect for special occasions. Live music adds extra charm to the vibrant atmosphere.
Settecento Event Capacity
The venue welcomes groups of every size:
- Can accommodate 300+ guests for larger events
- Offers six distinct event spaces
- Adapts easily for intimate gatherings and grand celebrations
Settecento Pricing & Booking Info
Ceremony site fees begin at $2,800. Peak season runs May through October[263]. Most couples invest around $5,000 for their events. The venue includes tables, flatware, glassware, and linens. Contact the venue directly to discuss your event requirements.
Rolling Greens DTLA
Rolling Greens DTLA creates a magical fusion of urban design and lush landscaping. This two-acre paradise sits in the Arts District and offers stunning spaces that make cocktail gatherings unforgettable.
Rolling Greens DTLA
Rolling Greens DTLA creates a magical fusion of urban design and lush landscaping. This two-acre paradise sits in the Arts District and offers stunning spaces that make cocktail gatherings unforgettable.

Rolling Greens Venue Explains
Rolling Greens DTLA takes up a full block between Bay and Sacramento Streets. The venue features six distinct celebration spaces: The Greenhouse (20,000 SF), The Showroom (14,000 SF), The Deck (2,200 SF), The Garden (8,000 SF), The Tent (3,200 SF), and The Pad (12,000 SF). The space works perfectly for photo shoots, weddings, festivals, and corporate events. Audi stands out among notable clients who changed the space through collaboration with restaurant noma.
Rolling Greens Cocktail Menu
The Deck’s outdoor kitchen comes equipped with a Big Green Egg grill and wood-burning pizza oven – perfect for craft cocktail stations. Small groups love gathering here to enjoy drinks under the open sky.
Rolling Greens Ambiance & Decor
Industrial elements blend seamlessly with sprawling gardens and lush greenery throughout the venue. Warehouse spaces create beautiful contrasts with landscaped outdoor areas. Wooden decking surrounded by plants defines The Deck’s charm, while The Garden provides 8,000 SF of versatile landscaped space.
Rolling Greens Event Capacity
Each space welcomes different group sizes:
- Full venue: Up to 800 seated or 2,000 standing
- The Greenhouse: 450 seated/500 standing
- The Showroom: 340 seated/350 standing
Rolling Greens Pricing & Booking Info
Events start at a $10,000 minimum spend. A 3% facility fee covers overhead costs. Each event needs 1-2 site managers at $85/hour per manager. The venue’s parking lot holds 53 spaces, but events with more than 200 guests require valet service.
Redbird
Redbird, carved into Vibiana’s historic former rectory, takes you through Los Angeles’s architectural heritage while offering exceptional spaces for cocktail gatherings.
Redbird Venue Highlights
This downtown gem sits next to Vibiana in a beautifully restored building. The space works perfectly for celebrations of all types – weddings, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, brunches, and birthday celebrations. The Garden’s olive tree-lined perimeter with string market lighting creates a magical backdrop for evening festivities. Redbird now features a new private bar and pizza oven to create custom culinary experiences.
Redbird Cocktail Menu
The Garden space has its own private, full-service bar. Bar Director Tobin Shea & Wine Director Matthew Fosket curate award-winning wine, spirits, and craft cocktail selections.
Redbird Ambiance & Decor
Olive trees surround the Garden’s intimate atmosphere with Vibiana’s belfry visible overhead. A vibrant fountain sits next to garden beds filled with herbs and vegetables. Guests become “part of something bigger than yourself, a hungry, chattering component of a grand pleasure machine”.
Redbird Event Capacity
Redbird welcomes groups of all sizes in its versatile spaces:
- The Garden: 108 seated, 200 standing
- Main Dining Room & Lounge: 140 seated, 200 standing
- Cardinal’s Quarters: 44 seated, 75 standing
Redbird Pricing & Booking Info
Each guest check includes a 5% service charge to support staff benefits. Private events come with dedicated staff, in-house furniture, tableware, and a Sonos sound system. Reach out directly to learn about pricing and availability.
Manuela
Manuela brings farm-to-table dining to the Arts District inside the Hauser & Wirth art gallery. This New American bar creates a unique experience that brings together chefs, farmers, and artists to craft memorable cocktail gatherings in a culturally vibrant setting.
What Makes Manuela Special
Executive Chef Kris Tominaga’s seasonal menu showcases ingredients from Southern California’s finest farms. The restaurant has its own chicken coop and garden that supplies fresh herbs and vegetables for both food and cocktails. The venue’s name comes from co-founder Manuela Wirth, making this peaceful space perfect for everything from casual meetups to formal celebrations.
Manuela Cocktail Menu
The bar crafts classic cocktails with their own house-made bitters and tonics. Signature drinks include:
- “Where No Man-Goes Before” – Mango rested rum with saffron
- “Strawberry Paper Plane” – Whisky, Select apertivo, amaro, lemon
- “I’m Not Like Most Girls” – Kumquat and Earl Gray macerated vodka
Manuela’s Ambiance & Decor
Matt Winter’s design incorporates commissioned works from renowned artists like Paul McCarthy and Raymond Pettibon. The private dining room offers a traditional glasshouse feel with beautiful courtyard views.
Manuela Event Spaces
The venue offers multiple spaces for groups:
- Private Dining Room: 14 seated
- Restaurant Courtyard: 36 seated/50 standing
- Garden: 80 seated/110 standing
- Full Restaurant Buyout: 200 seated/250 standing
Pricing & How to Book
Larger events start at a minimum spend of $45,000. Bookings require a 35% deposit, and full payment is due 30 days before the event. Reach out at info@manuela-la.com or call (323) 849-0480.
Library Bar Los Angeles
Book lovers who enjoy cocktails will find their perfect spot at Library Bar Los Angeles. This downtown hideaway creates a unique drinking experience that blends the comfort of reading with masterfully crafted cocktails.
What Library Bar Explains
The quiet escape at 630 W. 6th St. provides a peaceful break from urban chaos. Happy hour runs from 3pm-7pm Monday through Friday. The venue features DJs on Fridays and Saturdays without cover charges. Kitchen service ends at 9pm on Sundays and Mondays, 10pm Tuesday through Thursday, and 11pm on weekends. The financial district location makes this spot ideal for post-work gatherings.
Library Bar Cocktail Menu
The menu, cleverly named “Liquid Literature,” showcases cocktails that “tell a story”. Guests love the “Adventures of Blackberry Finn” made with blackberry-infused vodka and lemon, and “Toki Everlasting” which combines whiskey with citrus notes. Happy hour brings both drinks and food at “storybook prices”.
Library Bar Ambiance & Decor
Books line the walls while leather couches create a scholarly yet relaxed vibe. The space beautifully balances classic and modern elements through its corridor layout and gentle lighting.
Library Bar Event Capacity
The space welcomes up to 90 standing guests. Clients can choose between partial or full buyouts.
Library Bar Pricing & Booking Info
The venue’s website accepts direct inquiries for custom event quotes. Library Bar hosts various occasions from birthday celebrations to corporate happy hours.
The Wolves DTLA
The Wolves DTLA takes you back in time, blending vintage elegance with craft mixology inside the historic Alexandria Hotel. This unique cocktail spot captures a 1900s Parisian salon’s charm with amazing authenticity.
The Wolves Venue Highlights
The Wolves earned LA’s 2018 Eater Award for its design and stands as one of downtown’s most unique cocktail destinations. You’ll find this gem at 519 S Spring St on the Alexandria Hotel’s ground floor. The bar welcomes guests Thursday through Monday 5pm-12am, staying open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Wolves Cocktail Menu
Bar lead Nathan McCullough crafts extraordinary drinks with unexpected ingredients. The “Answered Preyers” features asparagus while “Skin Deep” incorporates salmon skin. Their weekly farm-to-glass special showcases fresh ingredients from local farmers’ markets in creative new combinations.
The Wolves Ambiance & Decor
The moment you step inside, another era comes alive. The space sparkles with antique lamps, art pieces, and elegant sconces. A stunning ceiling features stained glass arches rescued from an old train station. Spring Street’s only balcony dining option lives here, offering both indoor and outdoor seating.
The Wolves Event Capacity
The space creates an intimate feel with just 3-4 small tables upstairs and limited outdoor seating. The layout emphasizes movement over standing areas.
The Wolves Pricing & Booking Info
This premium experience comes at mid-range prices ($$). The bar operates without reservations on a first-come basis. City Center Parking structure offers convenient valet service nearby.
Apothéke LA
A hidden gem beneath an LA River bridge, Apothéke brings the magic of New York’s acclaimed apothecary-themed cocktails to the West Coast. This secret spot turns mixology into a fascinating scientific art form.

Apothéke Venue Features
This award-winning bar nestles at Downtown LA’s edge and works beautifully for wedding ceremonies and corporate events. The Apothéke Academy’s hands-on mixology classes are a great way to get team-building experiences. You’ll need your detective skills to find it – an unmarked white brick building tucked under a bridge near the LA River.
Apothéke Cocktail Menu
Skilled mixologists dressed in pharmacist attire create intricate drinks that awaken your senses. The menu reads like a pharmacy guide and has sections such as “Health & Beauty,” “Pain Killers,” “Stimulants,” and “Aphrodisiacs”. Each drink showcases California’s fresh produce mixed with botanical infusions.
Apothéke Ambiance & Decor
The bar proudly holds Timeout’s “Most Stylish Bar Award” and the German Design Award for “Best Interior Architecture”. Scientific boiling flasks serve as sconces inside, complemented by ornate wooden furniture and velvet cushions. The outdoor patio lets you watch the river flow and Metro trains pass by.
Apothéke Event Capacity
The space welcomes up to 200 guests and adapts well for both intimate gatherings and vibrant celebrations.
Apothéke Pricing & Booking Info
Your night starts at a $100 minimum spend. The doors open Thursday through Sunday from 7pm until midnight, staying open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. The dress code keeps things sophisticated.
The Varnish
A legendary bar that sparked LA’s modern cocktail development once thrived behind an unmarked door in Cole’s century-old sandwich shop. The Varnish, this iconic spot, closed its doors in July 2024 after 15 remarkable years.
The Varnish Venue Highlights
Eric Alperin, Sasha Petraske, and Cedd Moses founded this hidden gem in 2009, bringing New York’s craft cocktail sensibility to Downtown LA. The space measured just 987 square feet but quickly became one of the city’s most influential bars. The bar’s excellence earned it the prestigious “Best American Cocktail Bar” title in 2012, outshining acclaimed competitors from Houston, New York, and Washington DC.
The Varnish Cocktail Menu
The drinks celebrated classic American mixology as an art form. The original menu offered cocktails at $11, featuring timeless options like “the Business” (gin, lime, honey) and “Remembering the Maine” (rye, vermouth, cherry hearing, absinthe). The “Bartender’s Choice” stood out as the star attraction – guests shared their priorities and the talented staff crafted something special.
The Varnish Ambiance & Decor
Small wooden booths, sconces, and white tiles adorned this 1920s-inspired space under what many called “the dimmest lighting in the city”. Guests enjoyed live jazz from Sunday through Tuesday while savoring expertly crafted drinks. The atmosphere brought a John Sloan painting to life.
The Varnish Event Capacity
The intimate venue accommodated about 50 patrons.
The Varnish Pricing & Booking Info
The bar welcomed guests daily from 7 PM until 2 AM. The seating policy remained first-come, first-served with no reservations, making early arrival crucial.
Bar Jackalope
Whiskey lovers can discover their perfect spot at Bar Jackalope, a hidden lounge tucked inside Seven Grand in downtown Los Angeles. This Japanese-inspired whiskey sanctuary welcomes guests Thursday through Sunday from 7pm until 1:30am.
Bar Jackalope Venue Highlights
The bar’s entrance adds to its mystique. Guests need to locate a light switch button with English and Japanese instructions to enter. The intimate space at 515 W. 7th St brings authentic Japanese whiskey bar culture to LA with meticulous detail.
Bar Jackalope Cocktail Menu
The carefully curated collection features over 120 varieties of American bourbons, ryes, and Japanese whiskeys. Guests can choose between 20ml or 60ml pours to sample coveted releases like Pappy Van Winkle and Balvenie Tun 1401. The bar excels at three classic cocktails:
- Old Fashioned
- Manhattan
- Traditional Highball (with Japanese whiskey and filtered soda water)
Bar Jackalope Ambiance & Decor
Candlelight bathes the tables in warm light. Soft jazz fills the cozy space that seats just 18 guests.
Bar Jackalope Event Capacity
The venue maintains its intimate atmosphere by allowing seated guests only, with space for 18 people maximum.
Bar Jackalope Pricing & Booking Info
Groups up to 6 can visit without reservations. The bar’s bottle service program starts at $250 and includes perks like guaranteed reservations and the chance to play vinyl records.
The Edison
The Edison, LA’s first private power plant turned underground marvel, sits beneath downtown’s bustling streets. This unique subterranean lounge spans multiple stories in the historic core and takes guests back to an era of glamor and fantasy.

The Edison
The Edison, LA’s first private power plant turned underground marvel, sits beneath downtown’s bustling streets. This unique subterranean lounge spans multiple stories in the historic core and takes guests back to an era of glamor and fantasy.
The Edison Venue Details
The transformed industrial space at 108 W. 2nd Street #101 welcomes guests Wednesday through Friday (5pm-2am) and Saturday (7pm-2am). The staff calls this remarkable venue an “industrial cathedral,” which blends historical elements with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy happy hour Wednesday through Friday from 5pm-7pm.
The Edison Cocktail Menu
The vaulting lounge serves hand-crafted artisanal cocktails alongside fine food. The full bar service showcases quality and presentation that perfectly matches the venue’s dramatic setting.
The Edison Ambiance & Decor
The venue’s unforgettable atmosphere comes from its high ceilings, artistic lighting, and authentic power plant artifacts. Multiple bars, lounge areas, dance floors, and intimate gathering spaces fill the space. LA’s industrial past comes alive in every corner.
The Edison Event Capacity
The venue features six distinct spaces:
- The Lab: 200 standing guests
- Game Room: 200 standing guests
- Generator Lounge: 80 standing guests
- Tesla Lounge: 45 standing guests
- Music Room: 25 seated guests
- Ember Parlor: 20 seated guests
The venue accommodates 250 seated or 600 standing guests total.
The Edison Pricing & Booking Info
Event room rentals begin at $4,000. Interested parties can call (213) 613-0000 or email events@kinetescape.com. The venue’s full-service production team manages all event details.
Comparison Table
| Venue Name | Location/Area | Capacity | Notable Features | Price Range |
| Apothéke LA | Near LA River | Up to 200 | Pharmacy-themed cocktails, outdoor patio, mixology classes | Min. spend $100 |
| Bar Jackalope | Inside Seven Grand | 18 seated | 120+ whiskey varieties, Japanese-inspired design | Bottle service from $250 |
| Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse | L.A. LIVE | Up to 150 | Multiple private rooms, premium steakhouse menu | $85-125 per person |
| Freehand Los Angeles | 416 W 8th Street | 250 standing | Rooftop pool deck, tea-infused cocktails | $15,000-45,000 |
| HATCH at The Bloc | 700 W 7th St | Up to 300 | Japanese-inspired menu, yakitori bar, sake on tap | Not mentioned |
| Library Bar | 630 W. 6th St | 90 standing | Book-lined walls, literary-themed cocktails | Not mentioned |
| Manuela | Arts District | Up to 250 | On-site garden, chicken coop, art gallery setting | Min. spend $45,000 |
| Pez Cantina | 401 S Grand Ave | Up to 40 | Mexican seafood focus, 750-fish chandelier | Not mentioned |
| Redbird | Historic Vibiana | Up to 200 | Garden with olive trees, private bar | Not mentioned |
| Rolling Greens DTLA | Arts District | Up to 2,000 | Six distinct spaces, garden-industrial design | Min. spend $10,000 |
| San Laurel | Conrad 10th floor | Up to 144 | Disney Hall views, José Andrés cuisine | Not mentioned |
| Settecento DTLA | Maguire Gardens | 300+ | Italian cuisine, garden setting | From $2,800 |
| The Edison | 108 W. 2nd Street | Up to 600 | Underground power plant setting, multiple levels | From $4,000 |
| The Varnish | Behind Cole’s | 50 | Closed July 2024 (Historic speakeasy) | Not mentioned |
| The Wolves DTLA | Alexandria Hotel | Not mentioned | 1900s Parisian style, farm-to-glass cocktails | Not mentioned |
Conclusion
LA is a cocktail lover’s paradise with amazing hidden spots all over the city. You’ll find everything from pharmacy-style drinks at Apothéke to the cool historic vibes of The Edison. These 15 venues show off LA’s creative energy and exceptional hospitality.
The magic of these places goes beyond just great drinks. Every spot tells its own story through unique design, food, and atmosphere. The garden-industrial feel at Rolling Greens DTLA is completely different from Bar Jackalope’s intimate Japanese whiskey experience. You’ll find the perfect spot whatever your event’s size or style priorities.
These venues can handle any size gathering. Manuela’s private dining room is perfect for intimate groups of 14, while Rolling Greens can host huge celebrations with up to 2,000 guests. You won’t have to sacrifice quality or character to find your ideal space.
The prices vary by a lot too. Some spots like Apothéke have minimum spends starting at just $100, while others like Manuela need at least $45,000 for bigger events. You’ll find extraordinary spaces that fit your budget.
On top of that, many venues let you customize your experience. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse’s cocktail receptions start at $85 per person, and Settecento DTLA’s ceremony site fees begin at $2,800. You can create exactly what you want for your guests.
LA’s amazing year-round weather is definitely a star feature. Many venues offer beautiful outdoor spaces along with indoor options. San Laurel gives you stunning views of Walt Disney Concert Hall, while Redbird’s garden with olive trees creates unforgettable outdoor gatherings.
The food and drinks at these places are a great way to get your cocktail party to the next level. José Andrés brings Spanish-Californian fusion to San Laurel, while Pez Cantina serves coastal Mexican flavors and HATCH specializes in Japanese yakitori. These spots prove LA’s place as a world-class food city.
Hosting a cocktail crawl across LA’s hidden gem venues? A Los Angeles charter bus keeps your guests together with a professional, sober driver, eliminates parking and valet costs, and lets you set custom pickup windows, making the night smoother, safer, and surprisingly cost-effective per person.
Skip the usual spots next time you’re planning a cocktail party in LA. These hidden gems are waiting for you to turn your celebration into something truly special. Your perfect LA cocktail venue is among these 15 amazing options – just take your pick.
Key Takeaways
Los Angeles offers an incredible variety of hidden cocktail venues, from intimate 18-person whiskey bars to grand spaces accommodating 2,000+ guests, ensuring perfect matches for any celebration size.
• Diverse price points accommodate all budgets – Options range from $100 minimum spends at Apothéke to $45,000+ for premium venues like Manuela • Unique themes create memorable experiences – Choose from pharmacy-inspired mixology, Japanese whiskey lounges, or underground power plant settings • Year-round outdoor options maximize LA’s climate – Many venues feature rooftop decks, garden patios, and al fresco spaces with stunning city views • Award-winning culinary programs elevate events – Venues showcase Michelin-starred chefs, farm-to-table concepts, and specialized cocktail menus • Flexible spaces adapt to various event styles – From corporate happy hours to wedding receptions, these venues offer customizable layouts and packages
These hidden gems prove that LA’s cocktail scene extends far beyond typical hotel bars and chain restaurants. Each venue tells its own story through distinctive design, specialized drink programs, and unique atmospheres that transform ordinary gatherings into extraordinary celebrations.
FAQs
These venues can host a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings and corporate happy hours to wedding receptions and large-scale celebrations. Many offer flexible spaces that can be customized for different party sizes and styles.
Yes, many of the venues feature beautiful outdoor spaces like rooftop decks, garden patios, and al fresco areas. This allows guests to take advantage of Los Angeles’ pleasant year-round weather while enjoying their cocktails.
These venues are considered hidden gems due to their unique locations, distinctive themes, and often lesser-known status compared to more mainstream options. Many are tucked away in unexpected places or offer surprising experiences once inside.
Many of these venues offer specialized cocktail programs featuring craft creations, rare spirits, and innovative techniques. From pharmacy-themed drinks to Japanese whiskey flights, the menus often reflect the unique character of each space.
Prices vary widely depending on the venue and event size. Some locations have minimum spends starting around $100, while others may require $45,000 or more for larger events. Many venues offer customizable packages to fit different budgets and needs.