When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles
Why Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles stands out as a premier rooftop bar located atop the Freehand Hotel in Downtown LA, offering a unique blend of lively atmosphere, creative cocktails, and stunning city views. This vibrant oasis is perched fourteen stories above the bustling streets, featuring a colorful and eclectic decor abundant with greenery and vintage accents that create a cozy yet energetic ambiance. The bar is well-known for its handcrafted cocktails made with fresh, exotic ingredients and homemade elixirs, expertly crafted by knowledgeable bartenders passionate about mixology. Guests can enjoy a well-curated menu of small bites perfect for sharing, such as guacamole with chips, grilled skewers, and flavorful jerk chicken sandwiches. The rooftop pool area adds to the charm, providing lounge chairs where hotel guests can relax without a minimum spend, while non-hotel guests can reserve seating with a minimum spend. Happy hours are offered on weekdays, enhancing its appeal as a casual yet sophisticated social spot. Additionally, its popularity with a trendy, young crowd and live music or DJ sets contribute to a festive atmosphere, making Broken Shaker an ideal place to meet up with friends for an afternoon snack, sunset cocktails, or an evening of fun in the heart of Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles
As of recent, Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles holds a 4.2-star rating based on 784 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Broken Shaker's vibrant and inviting ambiance as a key draw. Positive feedback often praises the bar's rooftop setting with panoramic views of Downtown LA, the quality and creativity of the cocktails, and the friendly, knowledgeable bartenders who provide excellent service and personalized recommendations. Many guests appreciate the funky, colorful decor and the lively atmosphere enhanced by live music and DJ performances. The food menu, featuring shareable snacks like guacamole and grilled skewers, complements the drinks well and adds to the overall enjoyable experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention the popularity of the venue leading to long waits and the need for reservations, especially on weekends and peak times. A few guests note that the minimum spend requirement for non-hotel guests wishing to use the pool lounge area could be a downside for casual visitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the consensus remains that Broken Shaker offers an exceptional rooftop bar experience with excellent cocktails, a friendly vibe, and memorable city views. Overall, the positive reviews heavily outweigh the negatives, confirming it as a top choice for social gatherings in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Connor O'Hara
Had a cocktail on the patio on a warm day. Good quality and fairly priced - the patio get you away from the ‘street below.’ Very nice pool as well
Carlos A.
We wanted to eat at a place with a view of the city that had a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. We sat at the bar since it was just thentwo of us. The bar tender was attentive and helpful. We ordered the curry shrimp skewers, the fish tacos, the chicken sandwich, and some fried plantains. Overall, the food was good. The tacos had a great flavor, and the chicken sandwich was delicious (the slaw is what makes it). However, for $18, you only get two tacos. The shrimp skewers were bland. They lacked more curry flavor or flavor at all. I asked the bartender if the plantains were green or ripe (tostone style, salty, or maduro, sweet). She said sweet, but they were actually green. And for $5, you only get three. Skip them. For drinks, we got one of their tequila cocktails and glass white wine. Overall, stick with the burger or chicken sandwich. A lot of people ordered the burger, and it looked good. Come here for the views and drinks, not so much the food. It's way overpriced, and it's hit or miss.
Frank Garcia
ROOFTOP WITH KILLER VIEW!! Food - 4 Service - 4 Ambiance - 5 Price-quality-ratio - 4.5 If you’re looking for a rooftop bar with a killer view of downtown LA, Broken Shaker is the spot. The vibe here is laid-back yet stylish, with colorful decor, twinkling lights, and a pool that adds to the atmosphere. Whether you come during the day to soak up the sun or at night to take in the city skyline, the setting is hard to beat. The drinks are solid—creative, refreshing, and well-balanced. Whether you’re into tropical cocktails or something with a little spice, there’s something on the menu for you. The presentation is also on point, with fresh herbs and unique garnishes that make each drink feel special. Food-wise, they have some great bites to go along with your drinks. The chips and salsa hit the spot, and there are a few other options worth trying if you’re feeling snacky. It’s not necessarily a full-on dining experience, but it definitely complements the drinks well. Overall, Broken Shaker is one of the best rooftop bars in LA for a relaxed yet fun night out. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s worth checking out for the views alone—but the drinks and vibe will make you want to stay.
Birhavi .S
Made a reservation here to have a nice rooftop terrasse view of LA. Nice view, cool that can you can access the pool. However, drinks were overpriced but bland. Also I was not pleased and uncomfortable to see the way we were charged- a credit card being "held" by the waitress before ordering the drinks and then having the waitress tip themselves 18% without asking us how much we would like to tip... we only read this 18% tip rule AFTER being charged as it was written on the bill. Would have been nice to knke before ordering about this tip. Quite ridiculous.
Viry Manzanarez
I love this rooftop bar , the views and atmosphere are amazing . I can’t wait to go back and visit again this summer to enjoy the pool and the great cocktails.
How to reach Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles
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Why Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles with your friends?
Gathering friends for a memorable outing requires a venue that combines atmosphere, entertainment, and comfort—all elements that Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles delivers with flair. Perched atop the Freehand Los Angeles hotel, this rooftop bar offers an inviting oasis from the city's bustle, making it an ideal rallying point for groups seeking both relaxation and excitement. Its vibrant, colorful décor and open-air setting create a welcoming, laid-back vibe perfect for socializing and celebration. Whether catching the breathtaking panoramic views of downtown LA’s skyline or basking in the warm California sun, guests find a setting that blends urban chic with comfort. The bar’s reputation for innovative, garden-to-glass craft cocktails crafted by expert mixologists ensures a refreshing and unique drinking experience that keeps everyone intrigued. Plus, with its casual dress code and outdoor dining, Broken Shaker offers a flexible, unpretentious environment that accommodates a variety of meetups—from casual friends’ nights to special family celebrations. All these features combine to make Broken Shaker a dynamic venue where friends can come together effortlessly, enjoy great drinks, inspiring city views, and the energizing vibe of downtown Los Angeles.
What activities can groups enjoy at Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles?
Broken Shaker is designed to engage guests with a range of activities that make group meetups lively and memorable. Foremost is the rooftop lounging experience where friends can immerse themselves in the expansive views of Los Angeles. This backdrop is not only perfect for casual conversations but also for capturing stunning group photos to remember the occasion. The bar features a rotating menu of expertly crafted cocktails, often utilizing fresh garden ingredients, which invites guests to experiment and share new flavors together—turning drink sampling into a collective event. Beyond drinks, the venue offers small plates inspired by street food, ideal for sharing and savoring as a group, which encourages communal dining and interaction. The lively rooftop atmosphere frequently incorporates mellow background music, which adds to the ambiance without overpowering conversation. Furthermore, groups can enjoy the relaxed poolside area exclusive to hotel guests, offering another layer of fun for those staying at Freehand. Collectively, these features foster a social and interactive environment perfect for group bonding and celebration.
How does Broken Shaker's atmosphere enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Broken Shaker is a vital ingredient in its popularity as a group hangout spot. Its rooftop location, 14 stories above downtown Los Angeles, creates a unique blend of urban energy and open-air freedom. The space is known for its vibrant and eclectic décor—bright colors, lush plants, and artistic touches—that stimulate a joyful and inviting mood. This colorful setting encourages casual mingling and relaxed enjoyment without feeling pretentious or overly formal, which is ideal for groups simply wanting to unwind and have fun. The bar’s commitment to creating an intimate yet spacious environment means that while the ambiance buzzes with life, there remains enough room for guests to comfortably gather and chat. The natural California daylight streaming during the day and the city’s luminous skyline by night provide striking settings for every hour, supporting a dynamic and shifting experience that suits different times of day or types of meetups. This seamless integration of natural elements and thoughtful design helps groups feel connected not just to each other but also to the broader pulse of the city.
Why is Broken Shaker’s food and drink selection suited for groups?
Broken Shaker offers a thoughtfully curated menu that enhances the group experience through variety, quality, and shareability. The hallmark of its beverage program is the garden-to-glass cocktail list, which features inventive, fresh concoctions crafted by top mixologists. This encourages groups to explore new flavors together and spark conversations around their unique tastes and preferences. For individuals who prefer classic options, the bar’s versatile offerings—including simpler drinks like gin and tonic—cater to all palates, ensuring no one feels left out. Complementing the drinks is an appealing selection of small plates inspired by street food from various cultures, designed for sharing. These dishes not only provide sustenance but also facilitate a communal dining experience, fostering interaction and enjoyment of diverse flavors. The casual outdoor bar setting allows guests to move around freely, sample various cocktails, and pass around dishes easily, which adds to the overall group engagement and conviviality.
What makes Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles a convenient and flexible meet-up spot?
Convenience and flexibility are crucial factors when choosing a venue for group gatherings, and Broken Shaker meets these needs exceptionally well. Located in downtown Los Angeles, it is easily accessible for those coming from various parts of the city. The rooftop setting atop the Freehand hotel means guests can combine their meet-up with other activities like staying overnight or enjoying other amenities within the hotel, including the pool and lounges. Operating hours from noon until late (midnight on most nights, and until 2 a.m. on weekends) provide ample opportunity for groups to meet at different times according to their schedules—whether for a midday lunch, afternoon drinks, or a late-night social. The casual dress policy reduces stress around preparation, making it easy for everyone to join spontaneously or after work. Additionally, the staff are known to be accommodating and attuned to group needs, ensuring smooth service even when the venue gets crowded, which helps avoid common frustrations during larger gatherings.
How do guests’ reviews reflect the group experience at Broken Shaker?
Guest reviews highlight both the strengths and areas for improvement of the Broken Shaker experience, offering insights that group organizers can consider. Many celebrate the rooftop’s stunning views and vibrant atmosphere, calling it a memorable place for friends to gather, unwind, and capture great moments together. The refreshing cocktails and inventive drink menu are frequently praised for creativity and quality, contributing to an overall upbeat and social vibe. Some guests note that the venue can become crowded during peak times, which might affect seating availability or noise levels, though this busy environment also speaks to its popularity among social groups. A few reviews mention inconsistencies with sugary cocktails and occasional slow service, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. Overall, most feedback underscores Broken Shaker’s unique rooftop ambiance and varied drink options as compelling reasons to choose it for group meetups, especially when coordinated during less busy hours.
In summary, why should you choose Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles for your next meetup?
Choosing Broken Shaker at Freehand Los Angeles as your meetup spot means selecting a location that effortlessly blends stylish urban energy with a relaxed, welcoming vibe perfect for groups. Its rooftop perch offers an enviable view and open-air setting that energizes any occasion, from casual catch-ups to celebrations. The creative cocktail menu and shareable food options enhance the social experience, encouraging tasting and talking together, while the casual atmosphere removes formal barriers to fun. Convenience, flexible hours, and accommodating staff make organizing your outing stress-free. Whether you are locals seeking a fresh spot or visitors wanting to soak up the LA skyline with friends or family, Broken Shaker offers an enticing combination of factors that make your group gathering both enjoyable and memorable. It is a place where the cityscape becomes a backdrop to your shared stories, laughter, and experiences, making every meetup feel special.