24 Best Bars in Los Angeles | Condé Nast Traveler

"At the rear of the legendary Cole's, an unmarked door leads to The Varnish, one of the first to revive the speakeasy-style classic cocktail movement in L.A. The room is intimate and full of well-dressed cocktail aficionados. It’s a must for anyone wanting to get a primer on the local bar scene. While there's no food menu inside, you can head back out to Cole's for one of the most epic French dips in Los Angeles, which can be made with thin slices of prime rib, turkey, pork, or lamb. Don't forget to order a basket of their spicy sweet potato fries and tater tots, too." - Krista Simmons, Hugh Garvey