The retro-fabulous design—and not the drinks—takes center stage at this new Hollywood watering hole that’s less of a cocktail bar and more of a vibe. Walk through 800 Degrees to the back of the pizzeria and up a staircase near the bathrooms to reach this hidden bar that looks like a vinyl shop bred with the basement in That ’70s Show. The handful of cocktails on offer could use more balance and finesse, but it’s hard to argue with a setting this fun and an all-vinyl soundtrack; the later the night gets, the louder the Michael Jackson plays.
Vitals
The scene: Given its prime Hollywood location right at Sunset and Vine, this bar sees a cast of characters at all hours. You're more likely to spot groups of cool kids rattling off their favorite albums than loners drinking solo at the bar—this is a place that can get loud, rowdy and crowded faster than a needle can drop, so come looking for a good time with a solid vibe.
Good for: This is an ideal spot for meeting up with friends before or after a show, or for starting your night before hitting the rest of Sunset. Given the tight space, you may want to roll up early, or only stay for a drink or two, unless you're one of the lucky few who can claim a seat on the couch or the chairs in the corner.
Drink this: The drinks are pricey for their quality, so we're all about the happy hour specials: $5 beers, $5 well drinks, $6 glasses of wine. Cocktails are often overtly boozy palate punches despite the added juices, bitters and egg whites, but the Off Sunset ($13), made with tequila blanco, grapefruit, grenadine and jalapeño at least manages to keep things spicy.
Our tip: Get here early, which means grabbing drinks before you go to town on that pizza downstairs.