50 Best Cocktail Bars near El Monte

“Good ambiance and good food.“

“Best food I've had around the area. workers super friendly. Highly recommend 💖“

“Endroit hyper typique ! Bonne musique, cocktails d’un excellent niveau et à un prix tout à fait honnête, tous les classiques sont dispo et le barman tient la corde niveau cordes vocales !! Excellente carte de dîner ! Nous n’avons pas testé le grill … seul regret de la soirée. Il faut qu’on y retourne, absolument“

“Great music!!!! Great hang!!!!“

“Fun bar. Great drinks and great prices. I read comments that some people think it’s a racist bar, believe me, it isn’t. All are welcome. No predujices here.“

“We spent a few hours here on New Year's Eve. Everyone was welcoming and friendly. The owner greeted us and offered us snacks.
They have a live DJ spinning turntables, bumping music from the past to present. There's an outdoor patio in the back.
The drinks were tasty and affordable. Try the Adios MthrFckr. Bomb!“

“i Love my beautiful bartender Brittneey. 🤩 excellent service and drinks“

“Great atmosphere, great staff“

“I Love this place I always have fun here me and my Sister come almost every weekend either friday or saturday were like one of the regulars food and Drinks are the bomb they have good Birthday Party's there and everyone that comes here are cool.“

“This is a cocktail bar but don't be fooled. My favorite drink is the duck fat hibiki, it's absolutely amazing. It blew every other cocktail out of the water. It might cost more and it might not look the prettiest but trust me it is delicious. They are going to discontinue it due to lack of people ordering but don't just go for the trendy or Instagram worthy drinks, it might just be a regular looking old fashion but it might just be the best old fashion I've ever had.“

“Thank you so much for providing that surveillance video of the dog that was abandoned in the alley behind your business to Fox 11. Hopefully it gets the word out and those responsible are held accountable. It's nice to know there are still people out there that actually care about animals in need, thank you again.“

“Amazing food, service and atmosphere. Thank you.

Such a great team, I love visiting and staying at the hotel.

Dining at Longitude 118 is the best part of my day.

Elena and Stefano you are the best
See you next visit.“

“This is the spot if you need a good, cold drink & a chill, old school vibe. I don’t like bars that have windows & Poor Denny’s is old school in that regard. Ever since Ember’s Lounge closed down, this has been my spot. It’s cash only, but there’s a ATM machine there. I love the digital jukebox that allows you to play all kinds of music. The bartenders are always nice & they have wonderful hands on the pours. ? Good vibes & mellow times here.“

“Our waitress Genevieve was extremely nice and knowledgeable!! Great ambiance! Food n drinks! Definitely coming back !“

“The lounge is conveniently located within Hilton San Gabriel. It was spacious and comfortable. The staff were inviting, friendly and extremely efficient. They took wonderful care of us. For lunch we ordered: clam chowder, Caesar salad, beef taquitos with guacamole dip and Parma ham and mozzarella flat bread. All the dishes were perfectly seasoned and delicious. My only two suggestions would be to serve crackers with the soup and maybe change the flatbread sauce to a marinara. I had an old fashioned with my meal which I really enjoyed. The drink was well balanced.The lounge is a non tipping restaurant. It’s odd I know, at least for me it is. The tip was already added to the final bill and we paid approximately 65+“

“Absolutely loved this place. We will definitely be coming back. We got Citrus Salad, Carne en su Jugo & Carnitas Wow, just Wow!!!!!“

“Nice romantic atmosphere which you can actually hear others talk to you. Deep fried whole catfish is a spectacular dish! Great attentive service by staff.“

“Karoeke night was Fun! They have a fancy way of scheduling their list to sing (screen recording included). The bar has a pool table, chill vibes, super friendly staff (cash only) and overall friendly patrons.Oh and Olga's Cocina food truck stopped by and their food is amazing! I didn't get a picture of the food I ate it too fast lol.“

“no food just regular little snacks. If you wanna eat something eat something before you go, but Roberta is an absolute Saint. She may seem kind of direct to you, but she’s very kind and a very wonderful person and a great bar Owner. It’s a really nice cool chill atmosphere to be out. There is one of my favorite places to be at without stupid people being around. Roberta makes it happen.“

“We drive 35 miles at least three times a month to eat here. We love Home State and as a Native Texan, I can attest that their queso is the real deal!!! I just wish they'd open one in Claremont, CA!!! The Don't Mess With Texas is my favorite taco and my husband loves the brisket taco. Everything is amazing though!!!“

“I can’t believe how good this place is. When I moved to LA I thought there would be more options for gluten free and other allergen free options, but I haven’t really seen hardly any, especially on the east side. You can tell how intentional the menu is, nothing has been an afterthought. The owner's creativity with ingredients and flavor pairings are outstanding while still being familiar. Their versions of “scallops” and “fried calamari” taste better than the real thing which was very impressive. They have board games and fun mocktails too. Great multipurpose atmosphere for possible events, and the owners have great hospitality. Parking wasn’t a problem either.“

“Incredible dishes! We started with biscuits which were warm flaky and heavenly with perfect butter. Celery was refreshing and crunchy - highly recommend as a contrast to biscuits.

We also got calamari which were perfectly crispy, I was not the biggest fan of the sauce, but my husband liked it. For main course both the rosemary chicken and the steak were amazing!

In terms of seating we got the table on the patio which had great atmosphere except for trains passing by. I think next time I would book indoor table, but we 100% want to come as all the food was incredible.“

“Spicy jalapeño cocktail 🍸💕“

“The asparagus fries. Crispy & not greasy. You can appreciate the asparagus flavor. We split the Thai spicy salad. It was spicy, but the Thai basil & the peanut dressing were the stars. It didn't need the chicken. The best was the ribeye melt. The meat was cooked perfectly.The sourdough was crusted with parmesan. With a side of horseradish that was perfectly paired for this sandwich.“

“The food is amazing. I highly recommend this bistro.“

“Great neighborhood hangout, as the name implies. Inside there’s a cool cocktail bar, but my favorite is the dog-friendly outdoor patio, a chill spot to hang out with your friends, dog, and - yes - neighbors.

Outside is a map showing the destruction of the Eaton fire. It’s sobering and sad, but I’m glad it’s here. Thank you.“

“Excelente comida y atención“

“amazing food, service and ambiance!“

“This was our first visit to El Metate. I was impressed with all the menu options. The service was excellent , and the food was delicious.“

“Breakfast burritos were amazing!“

“Great food and service. Loved the the rooftop dining!“

“It may seem petty - but for what seemed to be fine dining the table was poorly set and with paper napkins. Our server was pushing the special and when the lady next to me ordered the chicken (which I had planned to order), he tried to talk her out of it saying you could get a dish like that anywhere. When it came my turn, I said “Please don't try to talk me out of the Brick Chicken!” He didn't say a word.“

“An Extraordinary Hidden Gem in Whittier!

I hosted my mother's 80th birthday celebration at this aesthetically, beautiful restaurant about three weeks ago, and let me tell you our guests are still raving about it! This place is truly a hidden gem in Whittier.

From start to finish, everything was exceptional. The Oaxaca-style food was outstanding, rich in flavor and beautifully presented. The dessert was a definite hit with everyone, and the ambiance was exactly what we had envisioned-warm, inviting, and perfect for such a special occasion.

Xotchil, one of the owners, was an absolute pleasure to work with-professional, extremely accommodating, and incredibly responsive to every question and request I had. Her team-Liz, Ines, and Raul-were equally amazing: friendly, attentive, and very professional throughout the entire event.

We were also grateful that the owners allowed us to bring in a Mariachi band, a Dueto band, and even a photo booth to make the night even more memorable. It was truly a magical and heartfelt evening, and I couldn't be more thankful for how everything came together.

This milestone celebration meant so much to our family, and choosing this venue was one of the best decisions I made. Thank you to the entire team for your excellent service and for helping create such a beautiful and unforgettable memory for my mother and all of us!“

“Good enough for Richard Pryor, good enough for me!“

“We came here 2 days back to back and was definitely not disappointed the first day we just wanted to try the place out and ordered the pork belly sliders and a brisket Mac n cheese. Both were amazing but… the next morning we came to get brunch and ordered the chili verde breakfast burrito along with the tri tip breakfast bowl and I must say that had to be the best breakfast burrito I have ever had! Plus the sauce with the salsa they give you for that bowl was delicious!!! I’m just upset that the brunch is not year around“

“Located in a vibrant neighborhood, Oyster Dive Bar offers a delightful dining experience with a unique twist on seafood classics. The crispy Cajun fries with cheese are a standout appetizer, perfectly seasoned and crunchy, making them an irresistible starter. The lobster pasta features fresh lobster, expertly prepared and bursting with flavor, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, ideal for both casual outings and intimate dinners. The service is attentive and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. Prices are reasonable given the quality and portion sizes. However, it's worth noting that the restroom could use more attention; cleanliness was a bit lacking during my visit. Despite this minor drawback, the delicious food and pleasant surroundings make Oyster Dive Bar a recommended choice for seafood enthusiasts looking to enjoy a satisfying meal in a relaxed setting. Overall, Oyster Dive Bar earns four stars for its tasty dishes, friendly service, and comfortable ambiance. With a few improvements in cleanliness, it could easily become a five-star dining destination.“

“I’ve been 3 times in the past 3 weeks. Service and food is fantastic! Highly recommend Smitty’s Grill.“

“Great spot for Korean comfort food in Pasadena! We ordered japchae, tteokbokki, galbi, kimchi fried rice, honey garlic chicken, and spicy chicken, everything was flavorful, well-seasoned, and generous in portions.

Service was fantastic, our server was on point and kept the Diet Cokes coming without us asking. The space is big, has a projector and multiple TVs for watching sports, and parking is super convenient right next door (paid lot).

Definitely a new go-to for casual eats and hanging out with friends.“

“Me encanto este lugar todo muy rico y muy atentos buen servicio“

“Food was good. They accommodated our large party.
Service wasn't so great. The atmosphere was nice and somewhat festive. Bathrooms need work. Too much tagging and graphite on the walls... No wait for the table because they don't do reservations so because of that we got there when it opens at 12pm...“

“Azabu Sushi – Whittier, CA
★ ★ ★ ★ ½ (I docked half a star purely out of spite because I can’t afford to eat here every day)

I walked into Azabu expecting the usual Whittier sushi experience: decent fish, questionable rice, and a lingering fear that the “spicy tuna” might just be yesterday’s salmon wearing hot sauce as war paint. Instead I was immediately hit with a vibe that says, “Yes, we know we’re in a strip mall next to a boba place, but we’re about to ruin you for grocery-store California rolls forever.”

Let’s start with the Salmon Carpaccio (the flat pizza-looking thing in the photo). Imagine if salmon had a glow-up, went to Coachella, and came back wearing citrus ponzu as body glitter and microgreens as a flower crown. It’s so pretty I almost felt bad eating it. Almost. Then I inhaled the entire plate in 45 seconds like a savage who’d never seen raw fish before. Zero regrets. The texture is silkier than my ex’s lies.

Next up: the Shrimp Gyoza in that dark, mysterious broth. These dumplings show up swimming in what I can only describe as “umami bathwater.” One bite and I involuntarily whispered “oh daddy” — which was awkward because I was on a date with my actual father. The wrappers have that perfect pan-seared crisp before collapsing into the sauce like they owe it money. I’d bathe in that broth if it weren’t socially unacceptable (and if the staff weren’t watching me like I’m one impulse away from grabbing a straw).

Portions are annoyingly civilized — translation: you’ll want to order three of everything and then lie about being full so you look refined. Pro tip: don’t. Just commit to the food coma. Your jeans will forgive you eventually.

Service is ninja-level attentive without being obnoxious. Our server knew the menu like he personally caught the fish at 4 a.m. while doing CrossFit. When I asked what was good he just smirked and said “everything,” which should’ve been arrogant but was 100% correct. Rude.

Ambiance? It’s dark, moody, and sexy in a way that makes you want to use chopsticks seductively even though you still hold them like a toddler with crayons.

Only complaint: the bill. It arrives looking innocent, then you realize you just paid Beverly Hills prices in a city where the biggest landmark is a 24-hour donut shop. Worth it? Absolutely. Will I be eating cup noodles for the next week? Also yes.

Verdict: Azabu is the sushi spot Whittier doesn’t deserve but desperately needed. If you’re still going to the conveyor-belt place down the street after eating here, I’m afraid we can no longer be friends. 9.5/10 — would sell a minor organ to come back tomorrow.“

“I came across this bar after leaving a Halloween show in Burbank and wanted to grab a couple of drinks. I found this spot online and saw it had great reviews, so I decided to stop by and I’m glad I did! I ordered a drink called Whiskey Time, and it was amazing. We also had the carne asada fries, and honestly, they might be the best fries I’ve ever had. The place has a really cool, laid-back vibe, feels private, and the service was great. I definitely recommend checking it out if you’re in the area.“

“This is an absolute gem in the heart of Covina! The moment you step in, you're welcomed by a warm and vibrant atmosphere that feels both upscale and cozy. The live music sets the perfect mood, making it a great spot for a date night or a fun evening out with friends.

The menu is a delightful mix if steak dishes.

Service is attentive and friendly, adding to
the overall relaxed yet lively vibe. I can't wait to come back and try more from the menu. Highly recommend this spot if you're looking for great food, fantastic drinks, and a memorable dining.“

“Bartenders are super cool. Karaoke is the best. I just watch but its enjoyable and the D.J. is the coolest. The vibe reflects everything beautiful about Los Angeles, cool people from all backgrounds enjoying themselves and being chill. <3“

“food is amazing and staff is top-notch“

“Dog, burgers, drinks and a Tuesday run club, what more do you need!“

“Absolutely loved macho nachos, Korean style wings, hot dogs with bacon excellent“

“Randomly picked this place because of other reviews. Food was unbelievable!!! Had al pastor nachos, shrimp tacos, shrimp tostada. Lots of food, great sauces (made in house). Everything was phenomenal. Wish I could have taken some of the sauces home with me. Friendly service. Family owned business. Can't say enough good things about this place. Highly recommend you stop by if in the area!“

“I’ve been going to Towhey’s for over 20 years. I love their breakfast. I love their cheeseburgers. My daughter Micaela used to be a hostess in Alhambra. It’s one of my favorite go to restaurants. I love sitting at the bar. Also when they’re busy it’s a fun place to have dinner.“

“Great food! I always get a mushroom taco there - they have great! mushrooms!!“