When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Harvard and Stone
Why Harvard and Stone is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Harvard and Stone is a distinctive cocktail bar located in the heart of Los Angeles' Los Feliz neighborhood, known for its inventive drinks, lively ambiance, and unique vintage-industrial style. Named after its location and the exposed stone exterior, this venue offers a captivating environment reminiscent of a noir film complete with brick walls, exposed ducts, and metal staircases that transport guests away from the ordinary. The bar is celebrated for its constantly evolving cocktail menu, featuring creative concoctions with unorthodox names, encouraging patrons to explore a new flavor experience on each visit. Beyond the drinks, Harvard and Stone hosts live music and burlesque shows, creating an immersive evening filled with entertainment and style. The establishment also emphasizes a distinct dress code aimed at curating a particular vibe—think effortlessly cool with a modern twist on classic Americana aesthetics. Open nightly from 8 PM to 2 AM, it serves as a perfect spot for friends looking to enjoy creatively crafted cocktails in a lively, stylish atmosphere that's anything but typical.
Here's what people think of Harvard and Stone
As of recent, Harvard and Stone holds a 4.3-star rating based on 577 reviews.
Reviews of Harvard and Stone highlight its reputation as a beloved nightlife destination in Los Angeles, earning a solid 4.3-star rating from over 570 reviews. Many guests praise the bar for its creative and well-executed cocktails, with the inventive drink menu and skilled bartenders often receiving special mention. Reviewers also commend the venue’s distinctive ambiance, noting how the vintage industrial decor and dim lighting create a memorable setting perfect for a fun night out. The presence of live music and burlesque performances adds a unique entertainment factor that many visitors find irresistible. On the positive side, users frequently mention the energetic vibe, friendly staff, and the overall fun experience that keeps them coming back. Conversely, some reviews point out that the bar can get crowded and noisy, especially on weekends, which might not suit everyone’s preference. A few patrons have expressed concerns about wait times and the limited space, making it sometimes challenging to get a seat near the bar. Overall, the reviews convey that while Harvard and Stone is not without minor drawbacks, its strengths in atmosphere, craft cocktails, and live entertainment establish it as an exciting and popular spot for a night out in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nemanja Zdravkovic
Super amazing venue for concerts and clubing! Looks like a infustrial inerior design or some kind of old mine separated in main room with guge bar in the ceneter and with the stage and couple smaller rooms! One of them is isolated with small cozy bar! There is also small patio where you can smoke cigaretes! Love the venue, love ambient, love athmosphere!
Lyanna Martin
Saw The Warlocks here. Bouncers are friendly, bartenders are fast and jovial, crowd was packed and respectful, overall a great club to see live music. Cash only bar-- bring your credit or debit card!! Very cool atmosphere.
Ian Downie
Cool bar with cheap(ish) drinks and great sound. Outdoor area in the back does kinda look like a ransom video background but there's cool little back rooms where you can get away from the main bustle of the bar during shows and all that. Parking's not so bad. Nice that you can really see local music here with no weird breaking sound nonsense or pay to play stuff.
Eric Cervantes
Harvard and Stone is one of the Houston Brothers less speakeasy-esque but no less fun bars. A nice roundabout bar that can wait on multiple persons at a time, a stage for live music and shows, many hidden nooks to either enjoy a drink in solitude or where a performer can strut their stuff. Plus, if one feels Daring enough, there is even a place that can perform flash tattoos. An all around great bar in the heart of Thai Town.
Alberto Rodriguez
Amazing Venu Staff at the bar super nice gentleman who took my order was perfect he definitely deserved that $30 tip. I can't wait to revist this establishment
How to reach Harvard and Stone
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Website: None
Why Harvard and Stone may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Harvard & Stone with your friends? Because this unique venue captures the essence of a night out that feels both effortlessly cool and authentically inviting. If you and your friends are looking for a place where vibrant energy meets laid-back charm, Harvard & Stone should top your list. Nestled in Los Angeles’ Thai Town, this industrial-style bar offers a moody, vintage rock and roll ambiance that immediately sets the tone for a memorable evening. Its rustic exposed brick walls and dim lighting create an intimate feel—like stepping into a carefully curated living room rather than a typical noisy bar. What makes Harvard & Stone stand out is its commitment to quality in both music and cocktails, making it a hotspot where you can enjoy strong, expertly crafted drinks while soaking in live performances that run most nights of the week. Whether you want to dance the night away or simply lounge and savor a cocktail with your crew, this place provides an atmosphere that invites connection and fun. With a 4.3 rating from hundreds of reviewers praising its strong drinks, friendly vibe, and eclectic crowd, it’s clear Harvard & Stone is a solid choice for group meetups that demand something special and memorable.
What activities are available at Harvard & Stone that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, live music dominates the scene here, providing a dynamic soundtrack that effortlessly unites everyone in the space. The venue features a broad mix of genres including rock, country, hip-hop, and occasional DJ nights, ensuring there’s something fresh for every musical taste. This variety keeps the experience exciting and encourages groups to come back, knowing each visit might offer a new vibe. The setup includes a front bar area where guests can gather to chat and enjoy cocktails early in the evening before moving deeper into the room where the stage and dance floor lie. This dual-space layout caters well to different social moods within your group—some might want to talk over drinks while less loud, while others can break out in full energy on the dance floor. Moreover, Harvard & Stone hosts themed events and occasional burlesque shows adding a unique edge to the entertainment that captivates anyone looking for something beyond the norm.
Why is Harvard & Stone’s ambiance a game-changer for group gatherings? The bar’s design cleverly merges industrial gritty aesthetics with vintage warmth, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and trendy. Low lighting and exposed brick create an intimate atmosphere perfect for relaxed conversation and shared experiences without feeling like you’re shouting over the crowd. Despite lively music performances, there are quieter spots such as a small alley patio where groups can escape the noise for more direct interactions. This balance of lively and chill areas means everyone in a group can find their preferred vibe, whether it’s joining the dance crowd or having more personal moments. Additionally, the friendly and approachable staff add to the welcoming energy, ensuring everyone—whether tourists or locals—feels comfortable and well taken care of. The emphasis on a stylish yet relaxed dress code further enhances the atmosphere, encouraging guests to dress smart but not stiff, blending seamlessly into the cool but unpretentious crowd.
How do the food and drinks at Harvard & Stone cater to group meetups? While Harvard & Stone is better known for its drinks than its food, it excels in crafting a cocktail menu that delights diverse palates. Their bartenders are highly skilled, often creating custom cocktails based on your flavor preferences. This personalized service elevates the drinking experience to something special, allowing your group to share unique concoctions and discover new favorites together. Drink options span classic cocktails to inventive, strong concoctions served with flair, resulting in a memorable sensory experience. Though food offerings are limited and designed mostly to complement the drinks rather than provide full meals, this makes the venue ideal for meetups centered on socializing over drinks rather than heavy dining. Happy-hour specials and fast service also ensure the flow of drinks keeps up with the group’s energy. For those seeking a full meal, nearby eateries complement Harvard & Stone’s focus perfectly—making it suitable as a destination for a bar-centric night after dining elsewhere.
What practical considerations make Harvard & Stone an ideal venue for hosting friends or family meetups? The operating hours are generous, with the venue open from morning through the late night on most days, which allows for flexible planning. Whether kicking off an afternoon gathering or moving into a deep night of music and dancing, the timing works well for different group rhythms. Reservations are accepted, providing some peace of mind for larger groups wanting secure spots, especially on busy weekend nights when the venue can reach capacity. Its location on Hollywood Boulevard makes it accessible via various transportation options, appealing to both local Angelenos and visitors from further afield. Although parking can be challenging—as is common in the area—smart planning or using rideshares mitigates this small drawback. Finally, the venue’s acceptance of multiple payment methods, including credit cards and NFC mobile payments, makes transactions seamless for group tabs and splitting bills, easing the logistical side of gatherings.
In what ways does Harvard & Stone’s crowd and vibe enhance the group meetup experience? The clientele here tends to be eclectic yet laid-back, described by visitors as down-to-earth and friendly without being pretentious. This welcoming crowd fosters a sense of ease for new visitors and reinforces the communal, social vibe that is central to a great group outing. The music lovers and night owls who frequent Harvard & Stone are authentic in their appreciation for quality live performances and well-crafted cocktails, creating an energized yet comfortable scene. The venue is not focused on glitz or VIP treatment, which appeals to groups looking for genuine fun rather than exclusive flaunting. This authenticity translates to a more organic, engaging environment where connections can thrive. Furthermore, occasional themed nights and special events generate shared memories that groups can talk about long after the night ends—an important ingredient for repeat meetups.
How does Harvard & Stone compare to other nightlife spots in Los Angeles? Unlike some Hollywood venues known for overly flashy or tourist-heavy crowds, Harvard & Stone strikes a balance by delivering consistently high-caliber live music without sacrificing intimacy or approachability. Its industrial and vintage design sets it apart visually and atmospherically from bars that lean into gimmicks or trendy fads. While places like Davey Wayne’s or No Vacancy offer wild, high-energy experiences, Harvard & Stone’s vibe feels more grounded and authentic. This makes it especially attractive for friend groups seeking a night out that blends excitement with comfort. Reviewers frequently praise the strong cocktails and talented bands, which puts it on par with or ahead of many other local bars in terms of entertainment and drink quality. Meanwhile, its approachable, no-fuss attitude helps create a regular crowd of loyal patrons who value community over flashiness. For groups who want their experience to feel both special and down-to-earth, Harvard & Stone stands out as a refined choice in LA’s bustling nightlife scene.
What are some insider tips for maximizing your meetup experience at Harvard & Stone? Arriving early is highly recommended to secure seating at the front bar or in the cozy spaces before the crowd arrives, as the venue does fill quickly, especially on weekends. For those interested in the full musical vibe, spending time in the back room where live performances and dancing happen is essential to experience the venue’s energetic core. Don’t hesitate to order custom cocktails by sharing your flavor preferences with bartenders, who are known for their creativity and craft—this can turn an ordinary drink into a highlight of the night. Consider splitting your meetup into phases, starting with quiet cocktails and conversations in the front and moving toward dancing or live music as the evening unfolds. Lastly, make use of the small alley patio if you need a breather from the indoor excitement, giving your group a chance to regroup and refresh before diving back into the lively atmosphere. These simple strategies ensure a smoother, more enjoyable outing at Harvard & Stone.
In summary, Harvard & Stone delivers a multifaceted nightlife experience ideal for friends and family meetups through its combination of compelling live music, expert cocktails, engaging ambiance, and friendly crowd. It’s a venue that strikes a sophisticated balance—vibrant enough to energize your group while remaining intimate and relaxed enough to encourage meaningful social interaction. Whether you want to dance, savor strong drinks, discover new music, or simply enjoy the company of good friends in a distinctive setting, Harvard & Stone offers it all in an accessible and stylish Los Angeles location. Its 4.3 rating and repeated praise from visitors underline its reputation as a prime spot to rally your crew and make lasting memories.