The Best Rooftop Bars in Los Angeles

Devoid of seasons and largely offering only one weather type (blinding sunshine) Los Angeles' enviable climate provides the perfect playground for al-fresco drinking. Its dizzying collection of rooftop bars offers a chance to soak up the rays atop stylish private residences sporting striped cabanas or some such setting.

Enjoy happy hour high up in the Hollywood hills at some of Los Angeles best rooftop bars.

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Filifera

Hollywood

Sat atop Hollywood Proper Residences, this 23rd floor bar has flown largely under the radar since its opening last May. Blissfully free of crowds, LA's in-the-know patrons flock here to enjoy the no-fuss vibe and views that take in the best of Hollywood. Spot the Capital Records Building, Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood sign from the elegant rooftop (decked out by acclaimed interior designer Kelly Wearstler). Sink into a sumptuous black-and-white striped chair and watch the hazy sunset while you sip on a punchy margarita.

Address

Hollywood Proper Residences 1550 N El Centro Avenue CA 90028

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High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin

Venice

The only rooftop bar in Venice regularly attracts a lively crowd due to its 360-degree Pacific Ocean views and guaranteed sunset vista. Hunker round the glass fire pits and snuggle under on-request blankets during those chillier LA nights, glass of frosé in hand.

Address

1697 Pacific Avenue Venice CA 90291

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Catch

West Hollywood

Thickly adorned with lush foliage, this sought-after design district location is often laden with A-listers. LA's rooftop darling, squeeze past the selfie-takers in the oh-so-Instagrammable entrance and grab a spot on the patio on the edge of the restaurant. The intimate bar is often packed so make a night of it and enjoy the first-class seafood - order heavy and don't forget to try the ceviche with blood orange ponzu. Wash it down with the detox-retox cocktail, a cleverly disguised, refreshing blend of tequila, Matcha tea, cucumber, mint and lime - it will guarantee you miss your morning spin class.

Address

8715 Melrose Avenue 90069

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E.P + L.P

West Hollywood

We bet you can't name a more dynamic West Hollywood duo? Climb the stairs to the buzzy LP bar for heavy beats and strong cocktails and descend the stairs for Asian-small plates at the relaxed EP. All you need to remember is that LP plays longer than its tasty downstairs neighbour, so slurp on spiked-bubble tea cocktails under neon lights and low-lit bulbs. Steal a moment of intimacy in Frankies Bar, a secluded nook with daybeds usually equipped with a string of lounging models.

Address

603 La Cienega Boulevard West Hollywood CA 90069

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Petit Ermitage

West Hollywood

A stone's throw from sunset strip, the mystical Petit Ermitage's private rooftop will have you thinking you've stumbled across your own secret haven. Beautifully bohemian, the outdoor restaurant, bar and pool is covered in citrus trees and lush potted plants decked with twinkling fairy lights. Candle-lit tarot card readings take place in gypsy wagons and exclusive films premiers are held at the intimate fire deck. Humming with birds and butterflies, the rooftop gives off a distinctively Mediterranean feel in the flashiness of LA.

Address

8822 Cynthia Street 90069

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Mama Shelter

Hollywood

Mama loves LA and we definitely love Mama. With its bright, Mexican inspired decor scattered with funky, multi-coloured sofas, its playful vibe offers a laid-back oasis in the heart of Hollywood. Come to Mama's for weekday movie screenings or drop by at weekends for a livelier affair. Arrive early and settle in for the night with a cocktail menu that threatens to drink you under the table. Take it easy with the rosé sangria - the made-for-sharing cocktail is a tasty mix of rhubarb, vodka, mint, strawberries and lemon.

Address

6500 Selma Avenue Hollywood CA 90028

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Upstairs at the Ace Hotel

Downtown

Wherever the Ace Hotel goes we usually follow. The Aces restored 1927 historic United Arts Building is the perfect spot to wile away countless evenings and weekends. Their ornately gothic rooftop, equipped with LA's smallest (heated) pool, draws the city's hippest crowd. Take happy hour to new heights and enjoy $1 Oysters and near-nightly events, all served up under the iconic "Jesus Saves" sign.

Address

929 South Broadway Downtown Los Angeles CA 90015

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Restoration Hardware: The Gallery

Los Angeles

We're reluctant to share this lesser-known nugget with you for fear our weekend sanctuary will be disrupted. While there's no happy hour or bar and the soundtrack airs on the chilled side, ascend the grand staircase of the Melrose Avenue store to revel a 10,000 square-foot public space. Filled with olive trees, concrete fire pits and shaded outdoor seating, the garden provides a welcomed respite from the LA glare. Pop over to Urth Café, which is just opposite, and kickback in West Hollywood's greenest and most relaxed rooftop space.

Address

8564 Melrose Avenue 90069