The Top Places To Drink Craft Beer In Los Angeles

In the heart of Studio City lies Laurel Tavern, located on Ventura Boulevard and easily accessible through Coldwater Canyon Ave. The tavern’s bright and inviting décor marks this small, quaint watering hole. The food here is thoughtful, and designed to complement the impressive 16 local drafts on offer, which rotate frequently. For example, the steamed mussels pair well with the Sea Dog Wild Blueberry Wheat Ale.

Located near the charming North Hollywood Art District, Tony’s Darts Away is the only ‘dive bar’ in the area that carries all local craft beer. The neighborhood favorite boasts a selection of all California craft, with an impressive 38 beers on tap. But don’t feel overwhelmed, the bartenders are well-versed and passionate about craft beer, and will gladly deliver tasters upon request. If you would like to do a little research before stopping by, check out their website, where you can read about the current choices, as well as some general information on different styles of beer. Be sure to try something off the signature sausage menu and check out the selection of board games.

Hosting its 2nd Annual LA IPA Fest this December, Mohawk Bend is home to a staggering 75-tap craft beer handles. Although the taps are rotating, Mohawk Bend consistently showcases local breweries from Russian River, Sierra Nevada and Ballast Point. The menu has a flavor profile for all the beers on tap. For teetotalers, Mohawk bend offers a refreshing cold brew on draft by Stumptown Coffee Roasters. Be sure to come for happy hour, which runs Monday through Friday, and enjoy discounted drinks in the warm interior or on the lovely patio. Mohawk Bend even serves delicious vegan food.

‘Craft beer and crafty food’ is this hip hangout’s motto. And boy do they stick to it, with snacks such as duck fat fries, pork belly chips and deep-fried oreos. Beer Belly is a bar/restaurant that indulges in a unique, off-beat menu that includes plenty of craft beer. For a fun way to learn about microbrews, head over for a class called One Night Stand. Beer Belly has a raw, street-art inspired ambiance and a young, knowledgeable staff. The building itself is adorned with graffiti and artwork, which gives this location a real ‘LA’ feel. Check out their blog to read about upcoming events.

Angel City Brewery carries in-house made craft brews, some of which are only offered exclusively on location. Angel City IPA is ideal for hop fanatics, while its Angel City Vanilla Porter delivers a more robust mouth-feel. The brewery is not just a cool place to hang out and drink; it also offers brewery tours, tastings, and hosts special events. Those in need of a nosh alongside their beer can step right outside, where a diverse selection of food trucks park daily and can be enjoyed inside.