When you’re traveling, you want to make your dollar go far. Los Angeles is not known for being an inexpensive city. But, smart and adventurous travelers can find some great places to quench their thirst while seeing a different side of the city. Looking for cheap drinks in Los Angeles? These five bars are great places to start:
The Down and Out
One of the best places to get a cheap, cold drink in L.A. If you show up on a Monday, you can get beer in a can for $2, or splurge on a $3 tall boy. Large screen TVs make it exciting to watch whatever major sports event is going on. The bar also features a full menu with many options under $10. Enjoy the three-cheese Disco Inferno Fries for $8 of Macho Nachos for $7. Each night also has themed events, ranging from trivia to lip sync competitions.
Five Star Bar
Enjoy a range of beers in this friendly dive bar with a punk rock vibe. Grab a bite to eat to go with your drink; there are a number of appetizers under $10. Check out the calendar when you are in town. They regularly host live music with local and visiting acts. Many, but not all, events involve a small cover charge, usually around $5.
Cole’s
This historic spot in the Fashion District bills itself as the originator of the French Dip. That sandwich and others are all available at affordable prices. Check their Facebook page for drink specials. They also run a happy hour all day Tuesdays and from 3-7 pm Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. You can find well drinks for $5 a piece during this time and save $2 on spirit orders.
Octopus Japanese Restaurant
Prices at this sushi joint are excellent during both their happy hour (3 pm to 6 pm) and their reverse happy hour (8:30 to 10). Most sushi menu items are half off and beer and wine specials abound. If sake is more your speed, they have a wide selection of both hot and cold sake choices.
Wendell
Located over on South Main St., this bar has a wide range of both craft and macro beers. If you are on a budget, you can choose from $3 12 ounce cans of Olympia and Miller Light or shell out one dollar more for tallboys of Schlitz or PBR. Make it a full meal with a choice from their hot dog menu and a bag of chips. Dogs come with a choice of the expected toppings like mustard and ketchup, or more unusual choices like wasabi or habanero aioli.
Even when you are watching your pennies, there are still plenty of watering holes in Los Angeles that can fit your budget. Watch for specials and be open to dive bars to keep yourself entertained and well-watered throughout your trip.
