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Jason Bran

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A neighborhood restaurant and bar that makes you forget you’re on the Sunset Strip. The cocktail list is a testament to the seasonal selection from local farms and markets, just as much as the food. Fresh juice and small-batch spirits are fixtures, as well as some house-made syrups. A classic cocktail complements the food just as nicely as a more creative choice in this comfortable and charming hiatus. Let Dave Kupchinsky, Kiowa Bryanone and the passionate bar staff be show you the way. (Recommended by Jason Bran)

Notable bartenders: Dave Kupchinsky, Kiowa Bryan

From a couple of guys with 40+ years in the biz, known for their beautifully designed spaces, unique concepts, and a hospitality-focused staff, The Library Bar is definitely a crowd pleaser. A true library surrounded with leather-bound books smells of rich mahogany and plush furniture that make the cocktails even more enjoyable. Sit back, and look clever in your private study, and reflect on the Tequila Mockingbird (Arta Blanco Tequila, Canton, agave nectar, sage, and Budaberg Ginger Beer).

Notable bartenders: Matt Freitas, Jonny Valenti

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Jason Bran

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An exotic late night bite accompanied by a classically-inspired cocktail and laid-back service is much desired and often difficult to come by. Have no fear of flavor here, and try something new. Red Medicine balances high-quality Vietnamese-influenced food and funky drinks with a humble reverence for the products and their sources. They serve until 2 a.m., seven nights a week. Just because it’s late, doesn’t mean your taste buds are sleeping. (Recommended by Jason Bran)

Rivera reminds us that cocktails inspired by the Spanish-speaking world do not need to begin and end with tequila alone. As with every other element on Rivera’s menu, top-quality sources inspire mix-master Julian Cox. In the creation of his “artisan-to-glass” drink menu, he focuses on boutique, craft distilleries and the finest ingredients available. Fresh fruits and herbs are purchased daily from the produce markets of downtown Los Angeles and juiced in house. Cocktails are chilled with custom cubes to ensure minimal dilution. You’re in good hands here.

Notable bartender: Julian Cox

Recommended By

Jason Bran

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Jason Bran, Damian Windsor and the rest of the crew give it all they’ve got on a nightly basis. And it tastes pretty damn good. This inconspicuous little spot reveals itself to those that are in search of cocktails. Whether you want an old stand-by or something original, there are no judgements, just service. Settle into a dimly-lit comfortable booth or bar stool surrounded by the playful circus-scaped walls and suspendered barmen, and enjoy the show. If you need a place to begin, there are 21 original cocktails on the menu and 5 that rotate typically by season. The Four Aces (vodka, Canton ginger liqueur, lime, basil, grapes, soda) is a featured favorite, but bartender’s choice is always a good bet here as well. (Recommended by Jason Bran)

Notable bartenders: Jason Bran, Damian Windsor

The passion and precision of The Tasting Kitchen’s educated bartenders will make your travels through their world of fresh, craft, seasonal cocktails and twisted, classic libations a safe, yet adventerous one. There are plenty of options for the whole group, but you should definitely try the Vatican Assassin (barrel-aged bourbon, allspice dram rum, and a hint of maple). It will be the only sign you need that the cocktail movement is here to stay and these guys are the missionaries.