L.A. Confidential

Los Angeles is so much more than beaches, bikinis, and movie stars. Sure, it has plenty of those. But these days the city boasts some of the coolest restaurants, bars, and neighborhoods in the country. Here, our insider’s guide to L.A.

- Lindsay Silberman

ROOFTOP BARS

Upstairs at Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles

929 South Broadway, Los Angeles

Situated atop the landmark 1927 United Artists building, this hip indoor-outdoor lounge offers an urban sanctuary in the heart of Downtown L.A. (DTLA). The stylish Moroccan-themed decor comes from local design collective Commune, with a concrete pool inspired by the late artist Donald Judd’s residence in Marfa. Cocktails pay tribute to neighborhoods like Little Tokyo and Hollywood & Vine, while mouthwatering snacks include California-style avocado toast and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

Catch LA

8715 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood

Since opening in late September, this West Coast outpost of the NYC favorite has become the place to see and be seen in the City of Angels. The sprawling 12,000-square-foot space features an expansive, 340-seat outdoor dining area—complete with a retractable roof for the rare L.A. rainy day—overlooking the twinkling West Hollywood Design District. But it’s the scene inside that offers the most impressive views of all, best enjoyed from a corner banquette over a plate of truffle tuna sashimi.

Mama Shelter

6500 Selma Ave., Los Angeles; 323-785-6666

Nestled above the sixth story of Mama Shelter Los Angeles—the first U.S. location of the cult Parisian hotel brand—this lively year-old roof-deck features 360-degree views that stretch from the Hollywood sign to DTLA, and sometimes all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Mama Shelter’s aesthetic takes inspiration from the tropics, with vibrant-hued wooden tables and chairs and a palapa-style bar. The palm tree– lined space serves a Mediterranean menu for lunch and dinner, and has its own outdoor movie screen.

E.P. & L.P.

603 North La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood