As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to take in some of the best views Los Angeles has to offer from its spectacular rooftop bars. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant spot to enjoy a night out or a cozy place to relax and watch the sunset, LA’s rooftop bars provide an array of options for every taste. Here’s a guide to some of the top rooftop bars across the city, each offering unique vibes, delicious food, and creative cocktails.
Lemon Grove
Location: 1717 Vine St Floor 6, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Perched atop the Aster Club and Hotel, Lemon Grove offers stunning views around Hollywood, including the iconic Capitol Records building. This rooftop spot is led by Top Chef’s Marcel Vigneron, who serves up mains such as whole grilled branzino and bone-in ribeye with compound butter. Their hibiscus tequila palomas and strawberry aperol spritzes make perfect drink pairings for a relaxed evening.
Desert 5 Spot
Location: 6516 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Adding flair to Hollywood’s Vinyl District, Desert 5 Spot is inspired by Pioneertown and features a laid-back lounge atmosphere. Colorful drinks like the ring of fire—made with Bruxo mezcal, Ancho Reyes Verde liqueur, prickly pear, lemon, ginger, and honey—capture the essence of this vibrant location.
Mama Shelter
Location: 6500 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Mama Shelter boasts unobstructed views of the iconic Hollywood sign, making it an incredible place to catch a sunset. It’s a popular local spot for meeting friends and enjoying drinks and snacks late into the night.
Bar Lis
Location: 1541 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Situated inside the Thompson Hotel, Bar Lis brings the charm of the French Riviera to LA with its retractable roof and sophisticated decor. Enjoy their tremendous cheeseburger and live music on many nights of the week.
Grandmaster Recorders
Location: 1518 N Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Before you reach the rooftop deck of Grandmaster Recorders, take a moment to admire the 71 Studio Bar lounge. The rooftop itself offers a breathtaking view of the Hollywood skyline and features a selection of creative cocktails and bites.
Casa Madera West Hollywood
Location: 8440 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Casa Madera offers stunning views of West Hollywood and specializes in coastal Mexican cuisine, including ceviches and seafood torres. The ambiance is stylish, complemented by a drinks menu that leans heavily on agave spirits.
Harriet’s
Location: 8490 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Harriet’s provides a mellow hangout space perfect for enjoying light bites like seasoned tater tots, grilled fish tacos, and grass-fed beef burgers. The setting boasts spectacular views over West Hollywood.
E.P. & L.P.
Location: 603 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
A landmark in West Hollywood, E.P. & L.P. continues to be a hotspot with its vibrant rooftop atmosphere. Enjoy carne asada tacos, cheeseburgers, and music-themed cocktails under a huge see-through canopy.
Spire 73 at the Intercontinental
Location: 900 Wilshire Blvd Fl 73, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Claiming the title of the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, Spire 73 is located high atop the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. It offers a vast selection of bar bites and mixed drinks, perfect for enjoying amidst the outdoor seating and lounge cabanas.
LA Cha Cha Chá
Location: 812 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
This rooftop bar in the Arts District offers a piece of Mexico City with an outstanding view of Downtown LA. Enjoy the blackberry hibiscus swizzle or the strawberry milk punch alongside ceviches and tacos at this Modern Mexican restaurant.
Broken Shaker at Freehand LA
Location: 416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Nominated for two James Beard awards, Broken Shaker features a casual aesthetic with tropical cocktails and tasty bar fare. The pink-hued mural by artist Luke Pelletier adds a unique touch to the vibrant atmosphere.
Cabra Los Angeles
Location: 1060 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Opened by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, Cabra in the Hoxton Hotel offers Peruvian-inspired dishes such as skirt steak saltado and ceviche. Don’t miss the traditional pisco sour or the pisco fever with mango and aji pepper.
Cara Cara
Location: 1100 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015**
Cara Cara, perched atop the Downtown LA Proper Hotel, offers an all-day dining experience with a menu curated by A.O.C. chef Suzanne Goin. The rooftop features cozy nooks and a drink selection managed by sommelier Caroline Styne, all set against the backdrop of stunning city views. This spot is ideal for both leisurely lunches and vibrant evening gatherings.