Employees Only Restaurant and Bar

"Employees Only is one of the most recognizable bar brands in the world, so it was no surprise to us that when they opened on Santa Monica Blvd. in 2018, it was one of the hardest places to find a seat. Fast forward today though, and EO has evolved into a most unexpected thing: an actual neighborhood spot. Sure, a drink here will still set you back about $18, but if you’re in the mood to drink interesting, delicious cocktails without having to wait in line anymore or put on uncomfortable shoes, Employees Only is your spot. " - brant cox

"Employees Only is a fancy cocktail bar/restaurant from NYC, and drinking in this space feels like we’ve time-traveled to a luxury airport lounge in the 1970s. There’s a private dining room that’s reminiscent of an old-school speakeasy, and the option for a full buyout is also available. Capacity: Private room seats 26, full buyout seats 60.  " - Sylvio Martins, Kat Hong

"A speakeasy transplanted from NYC, Employees Only has great cocktails and some really good food deals during Happy Hour (or “Golden Hour,” as they call it). Once you make it past the psychic’s den out front, get the French 77 (with vodka, St. Germain, and prosecco) and some duck wings to share. The Deal: $10 select cocktails, $7 select wines, food specials. When: Daily 6-7pm." - brett keating

"While this bar is certainly more contemporary than others on this list, what makes it a speakeasy is that it is hidden behind a fake storefront in West Hollywood. Inside are some of the best craft cocktails in the city, plus creative aperitifs. Their seasonal offerings are switched out twice a year, and a new menu debuted this month." - Virali_Dave

"What It Is: A fancy cocktail bar/restaurant in West Hollywood Perfect For: Girls Night Out, People Watching In the West Hollywood space that used to be Baby Blue’s BBQ, Employees Only is a fancy cocktail bar/restaurant originally from New York. When we stopped in recently, we found a dimly-lit space that feels like a luxury airport lounge from the 1970s - but one that’s predominantly filled with CW actors. Skip the generic food menu as it’s overpriced and not very good, and concentrate solely on the cocktails. Because those are fantastic. The Verdict: An excellent cocktail bar for actors and those who enjoy looking at actors. We’re putting it on our Bar Hit List." - jess basser sanders, brant cox, brett keating