The long and eventful history of Hollywood’s watering holes is a microcosm of the district’s larger cultural evolution. Bars in Hollywood, especially the older ones along Sunset Blvd, have always played an important role in the city’s social and cultural life, from the 1920s and 1930s during Hollywood’s Golden Age to the present day, in addition to offering great drinks and entertainment.
In the midst of Hollywood’s thriving music industry, these bars, many along the iconic Sunset Boulevard, became key cultural centers. In the present day, bars in Hollywood remain an integral component of the city’s cultural and musical landscape, with a wide range of options from standard sports bars to more niche establishments.
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Bars in West Hollywood often stay open into the wee hours of the morning, offering a fun and exciting environment for partygoers. The nightlife and music at West Hollywood’s bars are unlike anywhere else in the world, whether you’re looking to dance, drink, or relax with friends.
Bars like the Tower Bar and Soho House West Hollywood (while not rock-themed) are all great places to enjoy a night out, and both have a unique atmosphere that makes them worth a visit.
But if you are a live music fan, where should you go for a beer or a cocktail in West Hollywood? Read on to learn about some local favorites. Whether you’re a diehard fan of rock music or just looking for a fun night out, these bars are sure to please.
The Top 5 West Hollywood Bars
1) See Up-And-Coming New Artists At Whisky A Go Go
Whiskey a Go Go is a legendary nightclub and bar located in West Hollywood, California. It was established in the 1960s and quickly became one of the most famous music venues in the city, attracting some of the biggest names in rock ‘n’ roll and helping to launch the careers of many famous musicians, such as the Foo Fighters and Aerosmith.
Today, Whiskey a Go Go continues to be a popular destination for music lovers and nightlife enthusiasts, offering live music, dancing, and a classic rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere. Some signature drinks on the bar menu include:
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Falstaff or Heineken beer
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Tequila Sunrise
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Singapore Sling
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Various imported champagnes
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Mai Tai
2) Experience Music Immersion At The Troubadour Bar
The Troubadour is a legendary and stylish bar on Santa Monica Blvd., as well as a music venue, located in West Hollywood, California. It has a rich history as a hub for the music scene in Hollywood, having hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, James Taylor, and Elton John.
The Troubadour is known for its intimate atmosphere, high-quality sound system, and commitment to showcasing up-and-coming musicians, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers in Hollywood. Some unique drinks from the cocktail menu include:
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Cosmopolitan
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Margaritas
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Old Fashioned
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Highballs
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Martinis
3) Go Retro At The Roger Room
The Roger Room is a speakeasy-style bar located in West Hollywood, California among the Hollywood Hills. The low lighting, retro furnishings, and emphasis on handcrafted cocktails give it a refined and one-of-a-kind vibe. The bar is well-known for its masterfully created cocktails, which are crafted with the best ingredients and top-shelf spirits and are a major draw for those seeking a more private and upscale drinking experience.
As well as a menu of bar snacks, the restaurant serves a number of alcoholic beverages. The Roger Room is a hidden gem of a bar in West Hollywood, California, that attracts those in search of a sophisticated and one-of-a-kind drinking experience because of its upmarket atmosphere, music, and attention to detail. It boasts both indoor and outdoor seating as well.
Be sure not to miss these favorites on the bar menu:
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Spiced Mule Rum
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The Black Dahlia
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Flim Flam Gin
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Japanese Maple Whiskey
4) Rock On At The Rainbow Bar And Grill
Rainbow Bar and Grill is a legendary rock ‘n’ roll bar located in West Hollywood, California along Sunset Blvd. It has been a staple of the Hollywood music scene since the 1970s and is known for its colorful history and association with many famous musicians. The bar has a classic rock ‘n’ roll feel, with vintage posters and memorabilia adorning the walls and live music playing regularly.
The Rainbow Bar and Grill is also famous for its drinks, including the “Rainbow Margarita,” which has become a signature cocktail. The bar attracts a diverse crowd, from music enthusiasts to tourists and locals, making it a lively and energetic spot for a night out. With its rich history and association with the rock ‘n’ roll scene, the Rainbow Bar and Grill is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the cultural history of Hollywood and looking for fun on a Saturday night.
Of course, this is not the only bar themed with a rock flair. West Hollywood CA is home to a wealth of music-themed bars, many of which feature on specialty bar tours of the area.
5) Try Some Hard Rock And Roll At The Viper Room
The Viper Room on Sunset Boulevard is a famous music club and bar located in West Hollywood, California. It is known for its rich history, having been established in the 1990s and becoming a legendary venue for live music and a popular hangout for celebrities.
The Viper Room has hosted numerous famous musicians and bands, including Bruce Springsteen and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and remains a popular destination for music lovers and nightlife enthusiasts in Hollywood.
Rock On!
The neighborhood bars of West Hollywood CA have played an important role in the city’s music history and culture for well over a century. They have been an essential part of establishing the cultural and social landscape of the city, from Sunset Strip to Santa Monica Blvd.
Even today, bars in West Hollywood continue to play an important role in the cultural and economic life of the city, and a visit to the iconic ones is something no tourist to Hollywood should miss. With its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, wonderful music, and diverse clientele, bars in West Hollywood offer a unique and unforgettable experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Our knowledgeable tour guides know all the best rock and music history of Hollywood centered around some of the most famous bars, and are eager to show it all to you and your friends!
Schedule a Rock and Roll Musical History tour of some of West Hollywood’s most famous and best bars with our guides today!
