The Varnish Bar / Speakeasy

Downtown, Los Angeles –

Marked only by a small drawing of a cocktail, the discreet entrance to The Varnish at the back of Cole’s restaurant lends an air of secrecy and forbidden frolicking to this updated speakeasy in downtown LA.

A tiny one-room haven catering to a clientele of cool east-siders, after-work types, and loyal regulars, the venue’s fifty-person capacity means that patrons are guaranteed personal attention, from the waitresses who greet everyone on arrival to the expert mixologists who take their time to carefully craft each drink and chat with the artsy guests about the cocktail-making process.

Vintage slatted-wood booths offer groups of hipsters a cozy place to hang for the night, while couples can share more intimate moments at the small café tables in the middle of the dimly lit space.

Penny-tiled floors, antique crystal sconces, an old map of LA, and red velvet wallpaper contribute to the cozy Prohibition-era vibe, as do the piano players who favor Charleston standards and the laid-back patrons themselves, some of whom even dress in 20s garb or wear flowers in their hair.

Although The Varnish can get more uproarious on the weekends, the real focus of this easygoing yet lively late-night spot is on gathering with friends for fantastic cocktails in a quirky, hush-hush atmosphere.