So, you’ve got a freespace day, wherever shall we adventure off to? Let’s take a moment to unwind with my little list of wine bars that are here to help you after a stressful day at work or running errands. Sit back, relax, and drink up as you devour tasty delights until it’s time to return home.
Justine’s Wine Bar – Frogtown
Tucked away in the slick neighborhood of Frogtown, Justine’s has made huge waves since their opening little over a year ago. Enter to view a gorgeous hand painted entrance mural that moves beautifully to a bar filled to the brim with plants (and one bone chilling bartender) before sitting to enjoy their mouthwatering vegan fare.
Start with their Moroccan Cigars, impossible meat wrapped in crispy phyllo dough with a phenomenal dipping sauce. The Girl Dinner, hummus and pita and all the fixings for something a little lighter. The wine selections range from crisp or buttery white wines, to slightly funky orange options, to radiant red wines that are bold and jammy. Though it is only street parking, there are plenty of spaces on the neighboring streets next to the LA River.
Lolo Wine Bar – Little Armenia
One might take a look at the broody exterior of Lolo Wine bar and think what is this mysterious place? But once inside, you’re welcomed with mild gothic vibes filled with natural light and food beyond your wildest dreams! With multiple sitting areas to choose from, the warm and friendly bar area with cozy couches and chairs to the main dining room that extends to an open air patios, to the back room that can be rented out for events; everyone is sure to have a stellar time.
When it comes to the menu, the warm bread and honey butter must be on the docket. Next up are the carrots served with perfectly soft feta cheese. These will melt in your mouth like no other veggie before, making you sincerely consider a second order. Of course they have wine for any mood you’re in! With a rotating menu, their knowledgeable staff is happy to guide you to find something perfect for your pallet.
Hayley’s Wine – North Hollywood
Recently flipped from Tabula Rasa in the valley, Hayley’s Wines is up and coming and ready to blow you out of the water with her signature selections. Every Sunday is Spritz Sunday, where Hayley herself creates various Spritz’s based on the seasons. With a monthly calendar of activities, and a large and sheer genius selection of wines (Rose Sanceere? You know I’m there) come for an afternoon or join her $50 monthly wine club where you get 2 bottles a month, 10% off in house purchases, and free tastings for two! This quaint neighborhood shop was desperately needed in North Hollywood, so head on over and show some support!
The Ruby Fruit – Silverlake
The first permanent Lesbian bar to open in LA since 2017, The Ruby Fruit serves as a safe space not only for lesbians, but for non-binary, gender non-conforming, and the trans community as well. Open for lunch and dinner, be sure to check out their events calendar to see when karaoke, daytime work from “home” events, and poetry open mic nights are occuring.
For food and drink, Ruby Fruit doesn’t play around. Creatively classic menu options that shine; the brunch salad, a gem lettuce salad with fried egg, will cure any hangover. Their loaded fries or the Filet – Not – A – Fish Tempura Tofu sandwich are delightful vegan options. From sparkling to fortified wines, Ruby Fruit has wondrous alternatives like an orange albarino and alicante from Languedoc, which is a rare find in Los Angeles. Plus, on Monday it is Happy Hour all day, what are you even waiting for?
Bodega Wine Bar – Santa Monica
Come out to the coast, work from home, have a few laughs. Your boss might think you’re snuggled in your home office, but at Bodega Wine Bar, you’re gonna be sipping on rosé, soaking up the sun, and vibing with the west side lifestyle!
Open as early as 7am, BWB sets you up in a living room style vibe perfect for work meetings, solo writing sessions, or a first date. Friendly, and not overly pushy, BWB encourages us to enjoy ourselves to the fullest. With their proximity to the beach, you can reward yourself with a walk along the sand as the sun goes down, making Bodega Wine Bar an absolute local delight.
Monopole Wine By RX – Pasadena
Heading up to Pasadena for the day and need a place for a quick refresh? Monopole Wine is there to help mentally transport you to a small European wine shop where you can escape the LA Summer heatwave in style.
Light snacks and refreshments are available, but the real show stopper is the rotating wine list. Additionally, for those who desire to experience wine like a true sommelier, Monopole has a mystery wine tasting for only $25, and if you get them all correct, you wine the round for free!
