Best Wine Bars Los Angeles

Los Angeles might be famous for its glitz and glam, but sometimes, we just want to kick back with a glass of wine and good company.

Luckily, the city’s wine bars offer a little something for everyone, whether we’re into natural wines or looking for a spot with a great vibe.

We’ll help navigate you through the best places to sip and savor in LA, perfect for impressing a date or catching up with friends.

Finding the right wine bar in Los Angeles can make any night unforgettable.

With so many choices, each spot brings its own flavor and charm, from cozy hideaways to lively joints where the music’s just as good as the vino.

So, let’s get ready to uncover some of LA’s finest wine bars and elevate our evenings one glass at a time.

Bar Covell

Bar Covell is one of our favorite spots in Los Angeles, nestled in the trendy neighborhood of Los Feliz. This place is chill, with a laid-back yet classy vibe that makes it perfect for a night out with friends or a cozy date.

The best part? They have over 150 wines by the glass! That’s right, folks, 150 choices. Now, if you’re like us and only know wine comes in red or white, don’t worry.

The bartenders here are super friendly and ready to help us navigate the vino jungle without any wine snob business.

And let’s not forget about Sidebar, the private room option at Covell. It’s stylish and can fit up to 50 people. Whether it’s a birthday, engagement party, or just because, Sidebar lets us celebrate in style without doing any clean-up afterward.

Whether we’re tasting or partying, Bar Covell’s got something for us. Just bring your taste buds and maybe leave the car keys at home. We might be here for a while!

2) Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio

Let’s talk about Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio. If you’re driving down the Pacific Coast Highway and craving some vino, this is the place to be. It’s located just 400 yards from Topanga. You can’t miss it—right across from the beach. So, sip and enjoy those ocean vibes with us.

The patio is huge and perfect for outdoor parties. Whether it’s just us or a big group, we’re golden.

On weekends, it’s smart to snag a reservation, though. Walk-ins might find a spot, but no promises. We wouldn’t wanna fight over wine space, right?

They’ve got a selection of wines from their Malibu Estate label and Surfrider label. Whether we fancy flights, glasses, or even a whole bottle, we’re covered. Plus, we can take bottles home! Imagine impressing friends with a Malibu wine at home. Cheers to that!

3) The Wine House

So, let’s talk about The Wine House. This place feels like it dropped straight out of a wine lover’s dream.

First off, it’s massive. Imagine walking into a wonderland of bottles. They’ve got wines from just about everywhere, so you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy.

The staff really knows their stuff. They’re like human wine encyclopedias. Whether you’re a newbie or a full-on sommelier, they’ll help you find just the right bottle.

And hey, if you’re in the mood for learning, they offer classes too. Who knew learning could be this delicious?

Vineyard vibes minus the dirt: that’s The Wine House for you.

4) Vintage Enoteca

Alright, folks, let’s talk about Vintage Enoteca. It’s one of those places where we can feel both classy and relaxed. This wine bar is all about combining chic vibes with laid-back details. The owners, Danielle Francois and Jennifer Moore, moved out west to bring us this gem. Yeah, it’s like they crossed the country just for us—or maybe just the wine.

Inside, we find a seriously cool spot with a selection of wines that aren’t your everyday grocery store finds. We’re talking about specialties from California, Italy, Portugal, and France. Samantha Johnston, the sommelier, sure knows her stuff. Our palates are definitely in for a treat here.

When it comes to bites, Vintage Enoteca doesn’t disappoint. They offer Italian-inspired small plates that are the perfect pair for a night out sipping good vino. We can’t forget the craft beer either, just in case someone in our crew isn’t feeling the grape that night.

This place truly feels like a cozy neighborhood spot with a twist. Whether it’s for a fun night out with friends or a laid-back evening, Vintage Enoteca’s got us covered.

5) Augustine Wine Bar

Alright, folks, let’s chat about Augustine Wine Bar. Nestled in Sherman Oaks, this joint is a real gem for wine lovers. We’ve got a taste for the eclectic, and Augustine doesn’t disappoint. The place is known for its vintage wine offerings, which, trust me, are hard to find.

Imagine this: you walk in, and there’s a 1967 vintage just waiting for you. Yeah, you heard that right. Who knew wine from the ’60s could still be so cool? We love the mix of older and new wines, giving our palates a workout they didn’t know they needed.

Oh, and the vibe? It’s got that cozy, intimate thing going on. With a standup piano adding a touch of charm, it feels like stepping into a little slice of wine paradise. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a place to chill, Augustine’s got our back.

6) The Tasting Room

Alright, folks! We’ve got the lowdown on The Tasting Room, one of LA’s gems for wine lovers like us. It’s tucked away in a bustling part of town and offers an experience we can’t get enough of. Forget your usual sipping spots; this place is where the magic happens.

Picture this: a cozy, inviting space that’s perfect for both wine newbies and aficionados. They’ve got a lineup of wines that’ll blow our socks off. From local stars to international favorites, the selection is like a world tour for our taste buds.

What makes The Tasting Room stand out is the vibe. It’s relaxed and unpretentious, which means we can show up in our comfy jeans or our fanciest attire. The staff is chill and knows their stuff, helping us navigate the menu like pros.

Now, let’s talk pairings. The bites here are on point. Whether we’re munching on artisan cheeses or trying their charcuterie boards, each bite is crafted to complement the wines. It feels like we’re dining with foodie royalty.

In the world of wine bars, The Tasting Room is like a good friend who always knows how to have a good time. So, who’s ready for some top-notch tasting? We sure are!

7) Salt’s Cure (known for their secret wine list)

So, we all know Salt’s Cure for their drool-worthy brunch specials, right? Well, surprise, surprise! They’ve got a not-so-secret-anymore secret wine list that’s worth a trip on its own.

We’re talkin’ wines that aren’t listed anywhere on the menu. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with wine—and we always volunteer to be the explorers.

For fellow wine lovers, chatting with the folks at Salt’s about these hidden gems is part of the fun. They’ll guide us through unexpected picks that pair perfectly with their dishes. Let’s be real, who doesn’t wanna find a glass of wine that sings to their soul while also making their taste buds do the cha-cha?

Though they’re nestled in the busy city, Salt’s Cure gives us that cozy vibe with its chill atmosphere, making for a perfect evening out. Whether we’re there for happy hour or just to uncover that secret bottle, it’s always an experience to remember.

Here’s to more secret adventures in wine! 🍷

8) Tabula Rasa Bar

Let’s talk about Tabula Rasa Bar, a spot we’re pretty jazzed about. You’ll find it nestled on Hollywood Blvd, giving LA a cozy little corner to sip wine in style. It’s not your grandma’s wine bar (unless she’s ultra-cool). Think vinyl records playing while you’re sipping on some natural wine.

Tabula Rasa is like the playground for wine lovers. They’ve got 20 wines by the glass and a whopping 200 bottles on their list. Plus, there’s a full menu that’ll keep your belly happy while you’re sipping away.

Did someone say Happy Hour? Yep, they’ve got that every day from 4 to 6 pm. And if you’re in the mood for something special, check out their events and food pop-ups. You might just stumble upon your new favorite thing. Whether you’re there for the wine, the food, or the good vibes, this place has got what we need.

9) A.O.C.

If you wanna sip wine like a celebrity, A.O.C. is the place to be. Nestled in Los Angeles, this spot is perfect for those who love small plates and good vibes. Chef Suzanne Goin’s cooking is all about local and seasonal ingredients, and trust us, it’s worth every bite.

With 50 wines by the glass and 300 bottles to choose from, we’ve got options! Their menu includes a killer brunch, which is kinda like entering food heaven. Think Mediterranean influences blending with California goodness.

A.O.C. has two locations: one in West Hollywood on West 3rd Street and another in Brentwood on San Vicente Boulevard. So, you’re covered whether you’re on the east side or the west side. Reservations are a good idea, because no one likes standing in line when there’s wine waiting.

10) Everson Royce Bar

Alright, let’s dive into the chill vibe of Everson Royce Bar, or E.R.B. as we like to call it. Nestled in L.A.’s Arts District, this place has got quite the scene going on. You know you’re in for a good time when there’s a neon sign that just says “BAR.”

This spot’s got a killer patio. It was even voted the best patio in L.A. by The Infatuation, which is somethin’ to brag about. The atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring the city.

E.R.B.’s food and drinks are top-notch. We’re talkin’ about a burger that’s been praised as a work of art. Juicy patty, gooey cheese—all the good stuff you need. Pair it with their drinks, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable combo.

Whether you’re with a big group of friends or just a couple of buddies, this place welcomes large parties. So, grab your crew and check it out, but remember, Mondays are their day off!

History of Wine Bars in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has seen an evolution in its wine bar scene. From humble beginnings in cozy spots, we’ve now got hip joints with natural and funky wines.

Early Beginnings

Back in the day, Los Angeles’ wine scene was more about local wineries. The first wine bars were often small, family-owned places that offered simple, homemade wines. Imagine wooden barrels, rustic vibes, and probably your uncle playing the accordion in the corner.

These bars were focused on local grapes and providing a personal touch. People would gather to enjoy a glass, talk about the weather, and maybe gossip about the neighbor’s new wagon. There wasn’t a lot of sophistication, but hey, the wine did its job.

Modern Trends

Fast forward to now, and wine bars in LA have gotten a serious makeover. We’re talking chic interiors, curated playlists, and wine lists that sound like they’re written in another language.

Trends have swung toward natural wines, with some bars almost like wine-art galleries.

You’ll find places pouring pet-nats, funky orange wines, and anything else that’s as hard to pronounce as it is to find. It’s all about the cool factor now, and Instagram-worthy shots of that perfect glass.

So, whether you’re a wine rookie or a full-blown connoisseur, LA’s got a spot that’ll make you feel like a VIP.

What Makes a Great Wine Bar

When it comes to wine bars, some elements make them shine. It’s all about the vibe, the wine list, and the combo of flavors and people that create an unforgettable experience.

Ambiance and Design

A great wine bar isn’t just about what’s in your glass. It’s also about the vibe.

Picture this: dim lighting that makes everyone look a bit better (or at least softer), comfy seating that says, “Stay awhile,” and a layout that invites both intimate whispers and lively group chats.

We’re talking about cool art on the walls, maybe some quirky pieces that get us chatting between sips. The music? Just enough to fill the space without drowning out our brilliant wine-fueled ideas.

It’s gotta be more relaxed than a dive bar but more welcoming than a museum.

The design sets the stage for our wine-tasting adventure. Think rustic wood, maybe a pop of color, and no pretentiousness. The best wine bars say, “Kick back and enjoy.”

Curated Wine Selection

Alright, let’s get to the main event: the wine. A killer wine bar knows its stuff and offers a selection that sweeps us off our feet.

We don’t need a list as long as a novel; just a thoughtful collection of bottles that excite both newbies and wine nerds alike.

We want a mix of familiar faces like California chardonnay, and some oddballs from far-off places that make us curious.

Oh, and don’t forget the natural wines for those days when we feel a little adventurous.

Pair it all with small bites that complement the flavors and we’ve got ourselves a winning combo.

A well-curated wine list doesn’t just fill our glass; it tells a story with every pour.