Los Angeles’s best bar for . . .
Showing off stellar views to a client
18 Social at Hotel Indigo
Conveniently located near Crypto.com Arena and the Los Angeles Convention Center, this Prohibition-inspired rooftop bar offers plush lounge seating and an extensive list of top-shelf spirits. What really seals the deal, however, are the wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the glittering Downtown L.A. skyline.
Celebrating a company win
Alexander’s Steakhouse
Sidle up to the bar inside this Asian-inspired Pasadena steakhouse for a relaxed atmosphere, expertly made cocktails, and a large selection of first-rate cuts of meat. Culinary highlights include A5 Japanese Wagyu—hand-cut to order, of course—and large-format steaks sourced from Nebraska. Bringing the whole team? Book a table inside the opulent dining room.
A team happy hour
The Auld Fella, Wilshire
Legendary Irish hospitality and casual yet polished interiors set apart the Auld Fella from other early-bird offerings around town. The weekday happy hour (3–6pm) offers discounts on pub classics like fish and chips, lamb stew, and shepherd’s pie, plus affordable mixed drinks, draft beer, and glasses of wine.
Professional networking
The Beverly Wilshire
There’s no better place in Beverly Hills to connect with current—and potentially future—colleagues than the Beverly Wilshire. Trade business cards over the cheekily named, expertly prepared cocktails at The Blvd or soak up the moodier environment and Asian-inspired mixology of Wolfgang Puck’s legendary Cut Lounge.
Sipping alfresco
Culina Ristorante
For a taste of la dolce vita, duck into this seasonal Italian-inspired lobby restaurant inside the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. The secluded, greenery-filled covered patio is the perfect place to while away an hour or two with a drink in hand as you contemplate your next big deal.
Confidential conversation
The Double Barrel
This reservation-preferred hideaway in Beverly Hills practically whispers discretion. Choose from more than 3,000 rare whiskeys, plus Indian-inspired small bites, as you settle into a Chesterfield sofa next to a roaring fireplace. If you’d rather take things outside, the serene back patio offers twinkling lights and plenty of space to stretch your legs.
IYKYK experiences
Idyllwild Tavern
With a flawlessly executed bar program and a well-curated dinner menu, this brand-new Burbank gastropub across the street from Warner Bros. is a must-visit for those who enjoy a great burger or basket of wings. Afterwards, head upstairs for a nightcap inside their newly opened whiskey lounge.
Local flavor
Polo Lounge
Since 1941, the iconic restaurant inside the Beverly Hills Hotel has served countless luminaries and some of the world’s most influential movers and shakers. Most days, however, you’ll find Beverly Hills locals enjoying the elegant dining room, nightly live-music performances, and good, old-fashioned approach to hospitality. After dark, the dinner-only chocolate soufflé is non-negotiable.
Photography by Sierra Prescott
