When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Holiday Bar
Why Holiday Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Holiday Bar is more than just a bar—it’s an essential stop for those looking to combine great drinks, eclectic food, and an atmosphere that encourages genuine connection. Designed from the ground up to be a neighborhood hub, Holiday Bar features a lively, energetic space filled with art and retro touches that spark conversation and nostalgia. Whether you’re planning a happy hour meetup or a late-night toast with friends, this spot offers a welcoming vibe that perfectly balances approachability and a hint of glamour. The menu, inspired by a global fusion of flavors, ensures there’s something for everyone, from sushi and ceviche to heartier dishes like burgers and jerk chicken. In the mood for a memorable cocktail? Holiday Bar’s bartenders are known for their skill and creativity, crafting drinks that are both classic and inventive. With friendly hosts and a team ready to keep the good times rolling, Holiday Bar stands out as the ideal place to reconnect with old friends or forge new bonds over expertly made drinks, delicious bites, and the sound of live music—all in a setting that feels both laid-back and special.
Here's what people think of Holiday Bar
As of recent, Holiday Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 187 reviews.
Holiday Bar consistently garners strong ratings, currently holding a 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 187 reviews—a testament to its popularity among locals and visitors alike. Positive feedback frequently highlights the bar’s upbeat atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for socializing and celebrating. Guests love the convenient location, the impressive selection of cocktails, and the fun, scene-y environment that makes every visit feel a bit like a party. The skilled service team receives kudos for attentive and friendly interactions, ensuring everyone feels welcome. Many reviews specifically mention the eclectic food menu, which draws on international influences and caters to a range of tastes, as well as the live music and vibrant crowd that create an infectious energy on busy nights. However, negative feedback is far from absent. Some visitors express disappointment with the value—a few find drinks overpriced compared to other local options, and while the food is generally described as solid, a handful of diners felt it didn’t rise to the level of the overall ambiance or their expectations (e.g., burgers, onion rings, and other bar classics are considered average at best, with some noting the elevated price tag for what is delivered). Others highlight occasional wait times or slow service when the bar is at its busiest, suggesting timing your visit outside peak hours for the best experience. In summary, most reviewers agree that Holiday Bar is a fantastic place to gather with friends for drinks and a lively night out, with a few caveats about value and food consistency. Overall, the consensus is clear: while not perfect, Holiday Bar is a standout choice for those seeking a festive, social atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christian Ousbel
Bouncer up front was cool and informative after a pat down. Walked in on a busy night with nostalgic music played by the DJ. The lively atmosphere was contagious. Bartenders were great and will even find you through the crowd to take your order. There was a taco stand right outside which you can order from and have them deliver to whatever area in the bar you were at which was awesome. Definitely will be coming back here. Possibly this holiday weekend. 🤟
vivian radke
Aesthetically cute. But security treats his job as if he works for TSA. Too aggressive. Only ONE bathroom stall. Security was a dick head. Weird vibes and people. A torta wanted to fight me. Thought I could give it another try. Never again. Don’t come here. DTLA has the best bars.
Mirna Campos
Too small and every booth was reserve where was I supposed to sit. Bartender ignore us seem they were super helpful to their usual customers and could care less for new ones.
Cynthia S.
We always have so much fun here..Great music, food vendor has delicious food, and we boogie all night😎
Byron Rosa
The DJ knows the vibes! A bled of hip hop, reggaeton, salsa, etc! Lots to dance to and a big enough dance floor to find a space and wiggle it out. The bar gets packed really quick so don't be shy to make friends with who is in line and they serve you pretty quick. The most wait time was about 5 minutes but well worth it. Stop on by and check it out if you're in the area
How to reach Holiday Bar
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Website: None
Why Holiday Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Holiday Bar with your friends?
Holiday Bar offers a unique and inviting atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination to gather with friends. Located in the vibrant West Village of New York City, it embodies a spirited downtown vibe that blends casual comfort with refined style. The bar’s lively and engaging ambiance sparks organic social interactions, making it easy to strike up conversations and maybe even make new friends while enjoying your night. Its chic decor, featuring off-white leather banquettes and art by Alex Katz, creates an elegant yet approachable space that feels special but not pretentious, perfect for groups looking to relax and have fun. Whether you're planning a casual hangout, a celebratory night out, or a fun dining experience, Holiday Bar’s combination of friendly energy and stylish setting invites you and your friends to create memorable moments together.
What activities await you at Holiday Bar?
Holiday Bar caters to a diverse range of activities that suit groups eager to socialize and enjoy quality time. First and foremost, it features a strong bar scene where everyone can gather around to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails. The bartenders, known for their efficient and no-nonsense approach, keep the drinks flowing, supporting a dynamic environment suited for both sipping and spirited conversations. In addition to drinks, the bar offers a seafood-centric menu with highlights such as a raw bar, sushi rolls, and a distinctly good jerk chicken plate, ensuring there’s flavorful food to complement the drink selection. Guests can choose between dining or simply indulging in appetizers and cocktails, making it easy to tailor your visit to your group’s mood and preferences. People watching here is another activity unto itself — the eclectic Village crowd ensures a rich, entertaining backdrop as you relax and chat. These features combine to make Holiday Bar a multifaceted venue that works wonderfully for group meetups.
Why is Holiday Bar perfect for a group meetup?
Holiday Bar’s layout and ambiance are thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups, making it an excellent destination for meetups. The spacious seating arrangements with comfortable banquettes provide cozy corners where groups can sit together without feeling cramped or overheard, fostering intimate conversations even amidst the lively atmosphere. The location’s balance between a casual neighborhood spot and a stylish nightlife venue ensures that whether your group wants to keep things mellow or ramp up the energy, Holiday Bar can adapt to your mood. Additionally, its reputation for being a great place to organically meet new people adds an exciting social dimension for groups who enjoy spontaneous interactions beyond their circle. The consistency in service and the lively energy of the downtown crowd make this spot reliable for hosting social occasions, from casual catch-ups to celebrations. All these elements reinforce Holiday Bar’s suitability as a welcoming, fun, and flexible space for groups gathering to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.
What kind of food and drinks can I expect?
At Holiday Bar, the culinary offerings enhance the experience by pairing well with the lively bar environment. The menu is centered around fresh and flavorful seafood, including a well-regarded raw bar that offers high-quality oysters and other shellfish perfect for sharing with friends. Sushi rolls are another key feature, providing a lighter option that appeals to sushi lovers and those seeking variety. The surprising standout on the menu is the jerk chicken plate, praised for its delicious and well-executed flavors, which adds a robust, hearty choice for meat lovers in your group. Besides food, cocktails are a mainstay of the Holiday Bar experience, with inventive preparations featuring ingredients like mezcal, pineapple, and exotic herbs that provide a refreshing twist to classic blends. The bartenders’ fast service ensures you won’t be left waiting too long, even on crowded nights, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time. Overall, the food and drink offerings cater well to groups looking to mix good eats with expertly prepared beverages.
How does the atmosphere contribute to the overall experience?
The atmosphere at Holiday Bar is a defining feature that elevates any gathering with friends. Its lively, upbeat energy captures the essence of New York’s downtown Village scene, characterized by an artful mix of casual cool and urban chic. The space is decorated with a sophisticated palette that includes retro art pieces and stylish furnishings, creating a visually stimulating environment that feels both nostalgic and modern. Music and crowd interaction combine to create a buzz that fosters excitement without becoming overwhelming, striking a perfect balance for groups who want to socialize and have fun. The clientele is diverse but quintessentially downtown, ranging from locals to visitors, which adds to the dynamic and inviting nature of the place. This vibrant atmosphere encourages guests to linger, exploring conversations and connections that go beyond just a casual drink, making Holiday Bar a memorable backdrop for meaningful social moments.
What should groups know about the service and crowd?
Service at Holiday Bar is delivered by bartenders and staff who are professional and highly efficient, accustomed to managing busy environments with skill. While they maintain a fast-paced and somewhat no-nonsense style typical of New York bartenders, this ensures that service remains attentive and resourceful, getting drinks and food to your group promptly even when the bar is full. The crowd typically consists of a downtown Village mix, lively and social, but it also respects personal space enough to keep group interactions comfortable. This blend makes it a great place for both large groups who want to celebrate and smaller groups looking for a casual, friendly night out. Visitors should note that the intensity of the crowd can vary depending on the time and day but generally contributes positively to the overall lively vibe without crossing into chaos. These service and crowd dynamics make Holiday Bar well-suited for groups that appreciate fast, effective service and a bustling, sociable environment.
What makes Holiday Bar stand out compared to other West Village spots?
Holiday Bar distinguishes itself from other West Village spots by expertly merging a chic, art-inspired ambiance with a casual neighborhood feel, creating an inviting space that appeals to a wide range of visitors. Unlike overly formal establishments, it offers an easygoing vibe that still feels elevated, making it accessible for spontaneous meetups as well as planned gatherings. The combination of a strong, creative cocktail program and a seafood-focused menu with standout dishes like jerk chicken gives it a culinary edge that complements the social scene. Its location on 10 Downing Street places it in the heart of the lively West Village, where it carries forward the area’s tradition of nightlife and community gathering spots. Moreover, Holiday Bar’s potential for making new friends, not just catching up with old ones, sets it apart as a socially dynamic venue within a highly competitive bar and restaurant scene. This ability to combine style, quality, and social vitality defines Holiday Bar’s unique appeal.
How accessible and convenient is Holiday Bar for groups?
Holiday Bar’s location in New York City’s West Village neighborhood makes it easily accessible by various means of transportation, which is ideal for groups looking to meet without hassle. The West Village is well-served by subways, buses, and ample taxi services, allowing guests to arrive and depart comfortably even on busy nights. The bar’s address on 10 Downing Street places it in a vibrant area full of complementary nightlife and dining options, so groups can easily extend their outing if they wish. While parking in the neighborhood can be challenging, many groups rely on ride-sharing options to simplify logistics. Additionally, the bar’s layout accommodates groups of different sizes, and while reservations may be beneficial for larger parties, the welcoming atmosphere encourages walk-in visits as well. These practical considerations make Holiday Bar an accessible and convenient choice for groups seeking a hassle-free and enjoyable meetup spot.
What special occasions are best celebrated at Holiday Bar?
Holiday Bar’s energetic yet laid-back environment makes it an excellent venue for a variety of special occasions with friends and family. Birthdays are particularly well-suited here since the space allows for both casual drinking and shared meals, all in a setting that feels festive without being over the top. Anniversary celebrations also benefit from the bar’s stylish decor and intimate seating options, which allow groups to enjoy meaningful moments in a vibrant social setting. Furthermore, Holiday Bar’s ability to facilitate organic social interactions creates opportunities for milestone parties where mingling and meeting new people can be part of the fun. The venue’s versatility also suits informal gatherings like post-work meetups or weekend social hours, making every event feel special by virtue of the venue’s atmosphere and offerings. In all cases, the combination of good food, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively crowd ensures that celebrations at Holiday Bar feel vibrant and memorable.
How do guests describe their experience at Holiday Bar?
Guests often highlight the lively and fun vibe as one of the best aspects of Holiday Bar, appreciating its downtown Village energy and the welcoming, casual neighborhood feel. Many enjoy the combination of stylish decor and a relaxed ambiance, which creates an inviting spot to unwind without the pressure of a formal dining environment. Social interactions and people watching receive particular mention, as the venue draws a diverse crowd that adds to the excitement of the night. While some reviews note the bartenders’ fast-paced service style, most understand it as part of the authentic New York experience and appreciate the efficiency during busy periods. The food and cocktails garner mixed but generally positive remarks, especially the unique seafood dishes and inventive drinks that keep guests coming back. Overall, patrons describe Holiday Bar as a place where fun is easy to find, making it a top choice for groups wanting to enjoy each other’s company in a lively yet sophisticated setting.