9 places to eat and drink like a local in West Hollywood

West Hollywood is a trendy food and drink mecca of Los Angeles. From speakeasy cocktail bars to rooftop restaurants, to a bumping LGBTQ nightlife scene, we guarantee it will hit the spot for all of your cravings. And you might even spot a few celebrities while you’re at it! Pleasure to meet you, George Clooney.

From sunrise to sunset, here is our list of must-try spots to eat and drink like a local in WeHo — Wee-Hoe.

Coffee Run: The Verve Cafe

This spot will serve you up a refreshing cold brew for your on-the-go caffeine fix. It also has a killer outdoor patio with ultra-comfy cushions if you’re looking to bang out some emails. While you’re at it, try out their Featured Toast – a unique take on traditional avo toast – with all of the cheese.

IG-Worthy Brunch: Cecconi’s

Come here for celebrity sightings, a healthy (yet delicious) morning dish, fresh juices and endless coffee. Not to mention the incredible indoor/outdoor space. You can thank us later.

Rooftop Sushi Spot: CATCH LA

The moment you step out of the rooftop elevator onto the magical flower and vine-covered platform, you’ll realize why this is a local favourite. And if you love sushi like we do, you’ll want to order everything on the menu.

These dishes are made for sharing, so come all and come hungry because you can’t go wrong with any option. We recommend ordering the MRC Roll – they sear it at your table!

They also have plenty of vegan and vegetarian dishes for those of you not into seafood. Enjoy!

Speakeasy Style: Employees Only

If you like cocktails, do yourself a favour and head to this cocktail lounge. Be sure to look out for a neon red Psychic sign, as that is the only way identify this spot from the outside. And it’s not just for show – you can actually get your fortune told! If you’re in it for the booze, try the Billionaire Cocktail, an original recipe bourbon classic. If fruity is what you fancy, try the margarita with grapefruit juice. With atmosphere, cocktails, and sharing dishes, this place is a must visit!

Outdoor Atmosphere: Boxwood On the Roof at the London West Hollywood

You won’t believe the views. Oh, did we mention it’s a rooftop pool lounge? It really doesn’t get much better than this. For a pleasant, and delicious surprise, try the Peanut Butter and Jelly smoothie. If you didn’t know better, you would think it was the real thing. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner.

Celebrity Hangout: Craig’s

Aside from the average 5-10 paparazzi waiting on any given evening, the outside of this restaurant is actually very unassuming. Known for its comfort food and relaxed atmosphere, Craig’s is a celebrity favourite. So if you’re in the mood for spotting a star, grab a drink at the bar and act natural because the odds are in your favour.

Something for Everyone: The Henry

Looking for an upscale, but casual, option that appeals to a variety of people? Look no further, because this fare will feed the vegan to the carnivore and everyone in between. The dishes are delicious, the tables large, and the interior elegant. Oh, and the patio is dog friendly.

Local tip: West Hollywood is the number one dog-friendly city in North America. They can come with you just about everywhere, so feel free to bring your pup.

Casual Dining: Viale at La Peer Hotel

Two words: Burrata Pizza. It’s delish, but also massive so we recommend bringing a friend or three to share. The stylish decor transforms into a casual bar scene so hang around and grab yourself one of their refreshing spirit cocktails – they also do their own version of an Aperol Spritz. Yup.

Local tip: Pop over to La Peer Hotel’s poolside bar (same location as Viale) for some casual lounging. On Thursdays they have live music and it’s definitely worth checking out.  

Wine O’clock: V Wine Room

For all of you wine’o’s out there, this is your paradise. Home to small batch, unique wines you can’t find in regular liquor stores, the selection will quench your thirst. And if you’re not a wine-o, their cheese selection is on point.

Dance: The Abbey

Infamous for it’s cheeky dancing, this LGTBQ-friendly club will have the music to get you going in a high-energy atmosphere to boost you. Bring one-dollar bills, if you’re up to it.

Local tip: Take “The Pick-up’ Trolley up and down the Santa Monica strip in WeHo. It’s free and runs Friday/Saturday evenings and for Sunday fun-days. They also play house music to keep the vibe alive. No need to Uber in these parts!

Disclaimer: Travel, accommodation, and meals were provided by the West Hollywood Travel and Tourism board. All views and opinions are those of the author.