When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
The Redwood Bar & Grill
Why The Redwood Bar & Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Redwood Bar & Grill in downtown Los Angeles stands out as a lively and inviting destination perfect for meeting up with friends. Known for its distinctive pirate-themed decor and English pub atmosphere, this venue offers a unique setting that combines casual charm with engaging entertainment. Open daily from 11am to 2am, it caters to a wide array of social occasions, from casual lunches to late-night gatherings. The menu features popular items like flavorful salmon tacos, classic fish and chips, and a highly praised chicken Caesar salad, which has been described as exceptional by numerous visitors. Patrons can enjoy a broad selection of drinks including craft beers and cocktails, with a notably long happy hour to complement the affordable prices. The Redwood Bar & Grill also hosts live music on weekends and offers an internet jukebox, enhancing the fun, relaxed vibe. Friendly and attentive staff contribute to an atmosphere where guests feel welcome and comfortable, making it an excellent spot for catching up with friends, enjoying a meal, or simply unwinding with quality drinks in an upbeat environment.
Here's what people think of The Redwood Bar & Grill
As of recent, The Redwood Bar & Grill holds a 4.4-star rating based on 886 reviews.
Reviews for The Redwood Bar & Grill offer a mixed yet generally positive perspective on the establishment. Many users praised the friendly and attentive staff, highlighting how bartenders contribute to the lively and welcoming atmosphere. The food received commendations for standout dishes such as the chicken Caesar salad, burgers, and fish and chips, with some reviewers calling the food better than expected and worth visiting for its quality and value. Patrons also appreciated the diverse drink menu and long happy hour, which enhanced the overall experience. On the other hand, some reviews mentioned that certain menu items like the onion rings were greasy and some dishes, such as the wings and fries, fell short of expectations. Additionally, the limited wine selection raised minor concerns among some guests preferring wine over beer or cocktails. Despite these drawbacks, the consensus remains that The Redwood Bar & Grill offers good food, reasonable prices, and an enjoyable social setting. The positive interactions with staff and lively pirate-themed ambiance help make it a memorable place for a casual night out or pre-event gathering in downtown LA.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tim B
The Redwood was amazing! It was an amazingly intimate venue to see live music and they serve possibly the best nachos ever! And, the nautical theme was super cool. Add that Sara (please excuse if spelled wrong) and the rest of the staff were super friendly and accommodating, I'd highly recommend a visit if you're a rocker in need!
Shannon Simpson
Love this authentic dive bar (and I mean dive bar in the best way) - very cool vibes, great service and drinks. I asked the bar tender how his cocktail game was and he just said ok but he was humble!! It was great!
Miguel Rosas
Place was excellent, nice pirate theme. Food was incredible as well for service. Only small problem is the lighting, but overall great place. Highly recommend to anyone.
Melanie Guralnick
If you're looking for a special dive bar experience in downtown LA and want to mix with every type of human imaginable, Redwood is your kind of place! I'd guess I attended 50+ work 'meetings' here over the years, including meetings with City Council members, public works personnel, Parks & Recreation executives, and program managers for projects throughout the greater LA area. What we loved about this place is that it was conveniently close to LADWP, LA Bureau of Engineering, the Mayor's office, AND, it had great atmosphere, food and City staff were made to feel welcome. The bartenders always remembered us and made outstanding cocktails, and the chef we never saw made top notch bar fare that was generous in plating. There is an outdoor seating area at the entrance that is ideal for smokers and customers who liked to bring their dogs, which I did frequently. The decor is what I'd call 'smarmy pirate' themed, and we loved the kitsch. If you like Old Fashioneds, enjoy them here but they will sneak up on you!
Michael Ferguson
Who doesn’t love a pirate bar with the best veggie burger in downtown LA? Great old school bar that reminds me of a great bar in New York or Chicago. But….with a pirate theme.
How to reach The Redwood Bar & Grill
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Why The Redwood Bar & Grill may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Redwood Bar & Grill with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The Redwood Bar & Grill in downtown Los Angeles offers a uniquely fun and memorable experience because it combines a lively atmosphere with friendly service, affordable prices, and delicious food and drinks that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Whether you want to enjoy a casual night out or mark a special occasion, The Redwood’s pirate dive bar vibe sets it apart from typical venues, creating an inviting, relaxed setting that encourages conversation, laughter, and bonding. The staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, often going out of their way to enhance the experience by making great recommendations or sparking engaging conversations about music and local culture. The bar boasts an extensive drink menu with strong, well-crafted cocktails and a long happy hour, making it easy for everyone to find something they enjoy without overspending. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, catch live music on weekends, and indulge in hearty, satisfying meals that complement the laid-back ambiance, making it a perfect rallying point for friends looking to share quality time together.
What activities are available at The Redwood Bar & Grill that make it perfect for group meetups?
The Redwood Bar & Grill offers a range of activities and amenities that cater perfectly to groups looking to socialize, celebrate, and have fun. Firstly, the bar features an internet jukebox, allowing groups to control the soundtrack of their evening, picking favorite tunes that can energize or mellow the mood. Live music performances on weekends add an exciting dimension, creating a vibrant, communal energy that enhances group gatherings. These shows often feature local bands, giving you and your friends a chance to discover new sounds in an intimate setting. The casual English pub atmosphere, with pirate-themed décor, acts as a conversation starter and adds character that you won’t find in standard bars. Another key attraction is the friendly bartenders who engage guests, offering personalized drink suggestions and fostering a welcoming vibe that encourages groups to relax and extend their stay. The combination of music, good drinks, and interactive elements like the jukebox fosters a sense of connection that is ideal for group meetups.
What food and drink options does The Redwood Bar & Grill offer that enhance group gatherings?
The Redwood Bar & Grill’s menu is well-suited for groups with diverse tastes, offering crowd-pleasing dishes and satisfying drinks that enhance the social atmosphere. Guests report that the food frequently exceeds expectations for a bar setting, with standout items such as their chicken Caesar salad, touted as “the best salad” by many visitors—featuring perfectly grilled chicken, homemade croutons, and an expertly balanced dressing. The menu also includes classic pub fare—burgers, fish and chips, and veggie-friendly options like their veggie burger—which cater to various dietary preferences. Even picky eaters tend to find something enjoyable here. While some items like onion rings might be greasy for some tastes, overall the dishes are flavorful and well-prepared, enabling friends or families to share plates or individually savor quality meals together. On the drink side, The Redwood offers a strong, reasonably priced beverage selection with a focus on happy hour deals that encourage group toasts and rounds, further enriching the shared experience. This combination of good eats and drinks makes the venue a top choice for social dining.
How does the atmosphere at The Redwood Bar & Grill contribute to a successful meetup?
The atmosphere at The Redwood Bar & Grill is a distinctive blend of casual comfort and quirky charm that plays a significant role in making any group meetup enjoyable. Described often as a pirate-themed dive bar with English pub undertones, the décor creates an intriguing setting that immediately sets guests at ease and sparks curiosity. This relaxed vibe means no one has to worry about adhering to formalities, making it easy for groups to let loose and fully enjoy each other’s company. The ambiance is enhanced by the friendly and attentive service of the staff, who often engage guests in conversations about music, drinks, and local scenes, fostering a communal feeling. Additionally, weekend live music adds a lively pulse without overwhelming conversation, allowing groups to interact easily while enjoying the entertainment. The subdued but upbeat environment strikes the right balance between energy and intimacy, perfect for groups large or small who want to catch up, celebrate, or simply relax together.
What makes The Redwood Bar & Grill a smart choice for hosting friends or family in Los Angeles?
Choosing The Redwood Bar & Grill for a friend or family meetup in Los Angeles makes great sense due to its combination of affordability, location, and a genuinely enjoyable experience. Located conveniently downtown, it provides easy access for groups coming from various parts of the city or visitors staying nearby. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality of food and drinks, and the long happy hour extends the value for guests wanting to maximize their budget while having a great time. The staff’s friendliness and willingness to personalize your visit make it stand out from typical bars, transforming a simple night out into a more memorable social occasion. Its reputation as a “best surprise in LA” underscores how visitors often arrive skeptical but leave genuinely pleased, a testament to its consistency in delivering a fun, relaxed, and welcoming environment. Whether you’re organizing a casual get-together, a post-show dinner, or a small party, The Redwood offers a versatile venue that feels like a comfortable second home for groups looking to connect.
How can groups maximize their experience during a visit to The Redwood Bar & Grill?
To get the most out of a gathering at The Redwood Bar & Grill, groups should take advantage of the venue’s strong points and plan around its highlights. Arriving early to catch happy hour can stretch the budget while trying a variety of creative cocktails or local craft beers. Ordering shareable appetizers alongside main dishes allows everyone to sample multiple flavors and keeps the mood communal. Utilizing the internet jukebox to curate a personalized playlist can make the night feel even more special and tailored. Considering visits on weekends to enjoy live music performances adds an extra layer of entertainment that can elevate the vibe significantly. Additionally, interacting with the bartenders not only enhances the social atmosphere but can lead to discovering unique drinks or insider tips on local events and music scenes. By embracing the bar’s quirks and engaging fully with the staff and entertainment options, groups can transform their meetup into an experience that’s both lively and memorable.
What types of groups or occasions are best suited for The Redwood Bar & Grill?
The Redwood Bar & Grill suits a wide range of group sizes and occasions, making it a flexible option for different social needs. It’s ideal for friends reuniting for casual hangouts, thanks to its laid-back vibe and interactive elements like live music and jukebox access. Families looking for a friendly and affordable dining option with a fun atmosphere will also appreciate the varied menu and welcoming environment. The venue accommodates celebrations such as birthdays, small office parties, or pre/post-theater gatherings, benefiting from its downtown location near cultural hotspots. Its relaxed but lively setting makes it less intimidating for new acquaintances joining group meetups, helping everyone feel included. While it’s not a fine dining spot or elegant event hall, The Redwood thrives as a comfortable, exciting venue for those who want good food, strong drinks, and an engaging atmosphere — all essentials for successful group experiences.
Why do reviewers consistently give The Redwood Bar & Grill high ratings?
The high ratings and positive reviews for The Redwood Bar & Grill derive from its consistent delivery of a unique combination of friendly service, tasty food, good drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. Reviewers often highlight the staff’s politeness and attentiveness, which create a pleasant and personalized customer experience. The food frequently surprises guests with its quality, especially dishes like the chicken Caesar salad and fish and chips, which earn praise even from those with high standards. The drink selection, featuring strong and reasonably priced cocktails and beers, satisfies diverse preferences while the long happy hour prolongs enjoyment. Additionally, the venue’s character as a pirate dive bar with live music adds entertainment value beyond typical bars, making outings more engaging and memorable. This comprehensive appeal explains why many reviewers rate The Redwood around 4.4 stars and recommend it as a top spot for social gatherings in Los Angeles.
How does The Redwood Bar & Grill accommodate accessibility and comfort for groups?
While specific details about accessibility are not highlighted, The Redwood Bar & Grill’s downtown Los Angeles location and pub-style layout typically suggest ease of access for urban visitors. The casual, open atmosphere generally allows for flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate groups comfortably, whether they prefer booths, tables, or bar seating. The friendly staff can assist in arranging seating to suit group sizes and any special needs, contributing to an inclusive environment. The venue’s focus on creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere means that comfort is a priority, with enough space for social interaction and enjoying entertainment without feeling cramped. For groups needing accommodations, it is recommended to contact the venue ahead of time to confirm accessibility features or special arrangements to ensure everyone in your party is comfortable and included.
What nearby amenities and attractions complement a visit to The Redwood Bar & Grill?
Being centrally located in downtown Los Angeles, The Redwood Bar & Grill benefits from proximity to numerous attractions and amenities, making it convenient to incorporate into a broader day or evening plan. After a meal and drinks, groups can explore nearby theaters for live shows, art galleries, or cultural sites such as City Hall’s observation deck. The area also offers a variety of shopping, nightlife, and entertainment options that can extend the meetup beyond the bar itself. Having such amenities close by makes The Redwood not just a dining destination but a hub within a vibrant neighborhood, ideal for group outings that mix food, drink, entertainment, and sightseeing. This allows groups to tailor their experience according to interests and time, positioning The Redwood as a flexible kickoff or wind-down point for a rich Los Angeles social experience.