Los Angeles has a long tradition of being one of the most LGBT-friendly cities in the United States. In 2014, it even topped that list. It is also a city where both men and women of the community can find places targeted at them — more often than not, the offer for the gay community is much bigger than for the lesbian one.
TV shows like The L Word or The Real L Word also helped to build LA’s reputation as a place where everybody can find their home. West Hollywood is the LGBT heart of the city, but neighborhoods like Silver Lake also have their fair share of places worth visiting.
For both locals and visitors, we put together this list of bars and clubs where the LGBT community can have fun in a safe and protected way, making the most of the amazing nightlife Los Angeles has to offer.
Abbey
Abbey won the MTV Logo “Best Gay Bar in the World” award. Multiple times! This institution in WeHo was once a coffee house but now has four bars and a queue at the door every single weekend.
The drinks list includes fancy cocktails, perfect to enjoy in the limelight with good company.
Be ready for a big crowd, these days mostly made up of tourists.
Akbar
A favorite in Silver Lake, Akbar offers a place to chill with some good music and great cocktails.
The crowd is diverse, hipster, but not too snobby, contributing to the neighborhood atmosphere of the place.
Akbar hosts regular events on the weekends, from live music to comedy, from queer history nights to open mics.
Faultline
This is not your typical Los Angeles bar. With a rawer crowd, Faultline’s clientele is mostly made up of bears — and their lovers.
There is a party every night of the week, except for Mondays and Tuesdays when the bar is closed. Upbeat music, a wild atmosphere and a “men’s bar” vibe make Faultine truly unique. Not to miss if you are ever around Silver Lake.
Fiesta Cantina
Fiesta Cantina is mostly a Mexican restaurant, but one that serves a lot more than food. With the main floor and a rooftop deck, it is the perfect spot to enjoy the warm Californian nights in a party atmosphere, where everyone is welcome.
Besides the delicious Mexican menu, the place offers shot specials and a wide list of drinks for cheap prices.
Not far from Abbey’s, Fiesta Cantina can be just the perfect spot to start your night in Los Angeles.
Micky’s
This West Hollywood institution once burned out, only to come back a couple of years later, stronger than ever.
Boasting mostly pop tracks, the dance floor provides great fun — guaranteed! However, if you are not in a dancing mood, try the outdoor patio or the upstairs lounge, for a more chilled atmosphere.
Micky’s offers regular after-hours until 4 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Truly, a great choice for a fun night out!
Oil Can Harry’s
Oil Can Harry’s is located in the Valley, but worth the drive there.
On most nights, you will find the place crowded with guys in cowboy hats, dancing in the 80s / 90s atmosphere. But on Saturdays Oil Can Harry’s becomes even more alive, with Retro Disco Night, boasting 70s hit songs.
If it’s your kind of thing, there are also regular great karaoke sessions in the loft upstairs.
Saint Felix
No dancing or wild parties here. Saint Felix is more like your neighborhood bar, where you can have a cocktail with a friend, or a date, after work. Highlighted by Award Winning Food & Hand Crafted Cocktails, Saint Felix has one of the best and most affordable happy hours in Los Angeles, going on from 4 to 8 pm.