When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Voodoo Vin
Why Voodoo Vin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Voodoo Vin, nestled in East Hollywood’s vibrant Virgil Village, is a unique wine destination that blends a retail wine shop with the ambiance of a European-style wine bar. Founded by Natalie Hekmat, this intimate space specializes in natural wines with a commitment to sourcing only the highest quality organic and biodynamic bottles from around the world, including regions such as the United States, France, Italy, Spain, and Georgia. The establishment features a cozy bar area where patrons can enjoy small-production wines by the glass in a setting inspired by the wine caves of Paris, London, and Tokyo. Although initially opening for takeout and online wine orders during early phases, Voodoo Vin aims to welcome guests for indoor seating as public health regulations allow, enhancing its role as a social hub for wine lovers and friends to meet and share exceptional wine experiences. Aside from the extensive selection of over 400 wines, Voodoo Vin provides a carefully crafted menu of light bites designed to complement the natural wines on offer. Its warm, boutique atmosphere and dedication to natural winemaking principles make it an ideal spot to gather with friends or discover new and exciting varietals in an authentic and soulful environment.
Here's what people think of Voodoo Vin
As of recent, Voodoo Vin holds a 4.6-star rating based on 73 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Voodoo Vin’s impressive selection of natural wines as a major draw, noting the thoughtful curation of organic and biodynamic labels that offer something different from typical wine bars. Patrons appreciate the knowledgeable staff and owner Natalie Hekmat’s passion for natural wines, which creates a welcoming and authentic experience. The intimate, small-scale setting is often praised for its cozy, European wine bar vibe and the ability to discover unique bottles not easily found elsewhere. Positive reviews mention both the takeout convenience during times of restricted seating and the anticipation of a full bar and restaurant experience, praising the vision behind the establishment and the quality of wines available for purchase. On the other hand, some reviews express a desire for earlier full indoor service and a more developed food menu, pointing to the limitations imposed by pandemic closures and ongoing buildouts. A few users mention the small size of the venue, which may limit seating capacity, but this is also seen as part of its charm rather than a significant drawback. Overall, the reviews indicate strong customer satisfaction with Voodoo Vin’s concept, product quality, and atmosphere, with many eagerly awaiting more expansive service options as restrictions ease.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
C Mello
We had the most lovely evening -- so romantic. The food is delicious- run by a husband and wife who source all the freshest ingredients and made everything from scratch. The wine was heaven - and the vibe was so beautiful. I can't want to go back.
Sogand Ghods
Cute and cozy place with a nice wine selection. We got the Estamboli polo, different from the traditional recipe, but I liked the flavor. It was too oily though. The plate was around $30, which felt overpriced for just rice, onions, and a bit of ground meat. We didn’t try the stews since the Instagram photos didn’t look like how Persian stews should be. Unfortunately, they were out of tahchin. Overall, the food was okay, but with the presentation, service, and location, the price didn’t feel justified.
Lauren Rejvani
I’ve visited Voodoo Vin multiple times and it’s ALWAYS a lovely experience, a fave neighborhood spot. I grew up eating Persian food and these dishes hit home! Their food is authentic while also adding unique and “elevated” touches. They change their menu with the seasons and their wine menu pairs beautifully. The atmosphere is romantic and welcoming and the owners/staff very attentive and kind, you can tell they pour a lot of love into what they do here. Don’t skip the dessert! (Pics are from a few different visits)
Setareh G
Came from San Francisco and I wish I could take Voodoo back home with me! Everything was so flavorful authentic persian food — definitely a standout meal on my trip. Already dreaming about coming back
Joe Santavicca
On a quick trip and was close to this spot. This was such a fantastic meal. The food and vibes were off the chart! The staff were so nice. Please go here if you’re close, you’ll love it.
How to reach Voodoo Vin
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Website: None
Why Voodoo Vin may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Voodoo Vin with your friends? Voodoo Vin is a stellar choice when you want to gather with friends or family in a relaxed, inviting setting that feels like a welcoming, stylish home away from home. Its cozy atmosphere, reminiscent of sitting in someone's Persian kitchen, provides a warm, unfussy vibe accented with great jazz vinyl records playing in the background. The ambience alone makes it easy to linger and connect without the pressure or noise of a bustling bar or loud restaurant. Rated highly at 4.6 from dozens of reviews, this spot combines great wine with delicious, thoughtfully prepared bites that elevate a casual night into a memorable shared experience. Whether it’s an impromptu meetup or a planned gathering, Voodoo Vin serves as a reliable neighborhood hub where you don’t need a reservation but can still find a comfortable seat. It’s perfect for deepening your wine knowledge together, sparking conversation, and enjoying a laid-back night without elaborate plans or pretension. Its blend of excellent natural wines, artisanal food, and inviting ambiance ensures everyone in your group finds something to enjoy while feeling pampered and at ease.
What activities can you enjoy at Voodoo Vin for a group meetup? One of the biggest draws is the impressive selection of over 400 natural wines from various countries, including the U.S., France, Italy, Spain, and Georgia, curated by owner Natalie Hekmat. Wine tasting becomes an engaging activity for groups, where you can sample unique and rare selections not commonly found elsewhere. This makes Voodoo Vin an ideal spot for friends who are wine enthusiasts or those curious to explore the natural wine trend together. The venue often encourages casual education about the wines served, making it a place where conversations flow freely about flavors, origins, and pairings. Alongside the wine, the food menu offers small plates designed to complement the drinks perfectly; shared dishes such as the Apéro Plate featuring semi-hard cheeses, smoky housemade salami, and cornichons are ideal for groups to start their evening with shared bites. The Peach Panzanella salad offers a delightful mix of sweet peaches, tangy dressing, and crispy croutons topped with snowdrifts of grated mimolette cheese which adds layers of flavor and texture. These food options are perfect for communal dining, encouraging sharing and conversation, great for both friends and family.
Why is Voodoo Vin ideal for hosting meetups with friends or family? Its unique blend of ambiance, wine, and food creates a perfect communal environment that balances familiarity and sophistication. The venue is unpretentious and accessible—no reservations are needed, so your group can drop in without the hassle of planning weeks ahead. This flexibility means it’s suited for spontaneous social gatherings or more deliberate celebrations alike. The warm, homey feel gives the impression of sharing a meal and drinks in a close friend’s stylish apartment, promoting a sense of intimacy and connection. Additionally, Voodoo Vin never gets overwhelmingly crowded, so it’s easy to have comfortable conversations without shouting over loud music or crowds. This calm environment caters well to groups who want to focus on quality time, whether for catching up, celebrating milestones, or simply relaxing after a busy day. The natural, organic-focused wine list also reflects an ethos of quality and sustainability that resonates with many modern diners, adding a thoughtful dimension to the experience.
How can Voodoo Vin’s setting enhance your group experience? Beyond its wine and food, the physical setting itself contributes greatly to a memorable gathering. Located in Virgil Village, Los Angeles, Voodoo Vin’s interior is designed to evoke the charm of European wine caves from cities like Paris, London, and Tokyo, creating a multi-sensory atmosphere. Exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and comfortable seating areas foster a cozy environment that invites relaxation and lingering over drinks. The choice of jazz records playing on vinyl adds a nostalgic, sophisticated soundtrack to your meetups, further cultivating an ambiance that is both lively and soothing. This thoughtful design and decor subtly elevate the experience without overpowering it, allowing a group to feel at ease while immersed in a stylish setting. Whether your gathering runs from early evening into late night, the vibe remains consistently welcoming and conducive to creating lasting memories with friends and family.
What makes the food and wine pairing at Voodoo Vin special for groups? The menu is designed with sharing in mind, making it easy for groups to try several dishes and wines without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The Apéro Plate is a perfect starter to share, offering a balanced mix of salty, smoky, and briny flavors that complement a wide range of wine styles. This encourages a communal tasting experience where everyone can sample and discuss the different flavor combinations together. The Peach Panzanella salad exemplifies the kitchen’s approach to homey but inventive cooking; its combination of sweet, tangy, and crispy elements paired with a generous amount of flavorful cheese invites shared appreciation among diners. Because the wine list focuses heavily on natural wines—known for their expressive, often funky and fruity profiles—these dishes are thoughtfully chosen to highlight and balance the complexity of the beverages. This focus on natural wine also provides a unique educational opportunity for groups who want to learn more about wine styles that differ from conventional offerings. The food and drink here come together with care and authenticity, ensuring that everyone in a group can find something to love and spark lively conversation.
How accessible and convenient is Voodoo Vin for group visits? One of the major advantages of Voodoo Vin is its no-reservation policy coupled with its generally relaxed crowd level, meaning groups can often find a spot without prior planning. This casual approach removes much of the stress associated with organizing a group outing, making it easy for friends or family to drop in at a preferred time. Located conveniently in Los Angeles’ Virgil Village, it is accessible by car or rideshare, and the neighborhood vibe is both charming and safe. The business hours accommodate after-work or weekend meetups, allowing flexibility in scheduling. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, helping groups navigate the extensive wine list and offering recommendations based on the group’s preferences or curiosity. This welcoming approach ensures that even those new to natural wines or small-plates dining can feel at ease and enjoy the experience fully.
What kind of atmosphere can you expect throughout your time at Voodoo Vin? Voodoo Vin combines an effortless cool with a sense of warmth and inclusion rarely found in trendy wine bars. The atmosphere is casual yet sophisticated, making it an excellent backdrop for both special occasions and casual hangouts. The intimate size and strategically curated music playlist encourage conversation without competing with it. The bar's commitment to natural and artisanal products resonates throughout the atmosphere, contributing to a feel of authenticity and care. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from a sizable number of patrons, it’s clear that guests consistently appreciate the straightforward yet refined welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place where friends can enjoy the deep satisfaction of quality wine and food paired with genuine conviviality—perfect for meaningful moments or joyous celebrations alike.
How does Voodoo Vin support wine education and appreciation for groups? The venue offers an ideal setting for groups interested in expanding their wine knowledge in a low-pressure environment. With a curated selection of over 400 natural wines sourced from major wine-producing regions, guests can explore a wide spectrum of flavors and styles. The staff is well-versed in the nuances of natural winemaking and eager to share insights, from grape varieties to production techniques. For groups, this creates an interactive experience where learning becomes part of the fun—tasting flights, discussions, and informal guidance enhance appreciation and make each visit uniquely rewarding. Compared to more traditional bars or restaurants, Voodoo Vin’s focus on natural wines provides a niche for discovery, appealing to both novices and aficionados seeking something different. This educational dimension naturally promotes lively group dialogues, making each meetup intellectually stimulating as well as enjoyable.
What kind of groups thrive at Voodoo Vin? Voodoo Vin’s environment naturally suits a variety of social groups—from close-knit circles of friends looking for a regular hangout spot to extended family celebrations where quality food and wine are key to the occasion. Wine lovers who want to explore natural and organic varietals will find a treasure trove here, but the welcoming atmosphere ensures that casual drinkers or those new to wine also feel comfortable. Creative professionals, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike will appreciate the subtle touches of ambiance and thoughtful menu, making it a great choice for work-from-home colleagues needing an after-hours unwind or families wanting a stylish yet approachable dining experience. The space's intimate scale fosters connection, making Voodoo Vin ideal for groups who want to prioritize meaningful interaction over noise or spectacle.
How does the pricing and value at Voodoo Vin make it suitable for group outings? Voodoo Vin offers a compelling balance of quality and approachability that makes it an excellent choice for groups mindful of value without compromising on experience. The natural wines carry a range of prices, allowing guests to tailor their order to the group's budget, with staff guidance ensuring good value selections. Small plates are moderately priced, designed to be shared and create a communal dining experience that maximizes taste variety without excess cost. Given the quality of ingredients, the care in preparation, and the unique wine list, diners receive excellent return for their expenditure. For groups, this means you can enjoy a high-end wine bar atmosphere without the intimidation or steep prices sometimes associated with upscale venues. This combination of fair prices, excellent service, and atmosphere encourages repeat visits and word-of-mouth recommendations, reinforcing Voodoo Vin's reputation as a go-to gathering spot.
What are some tips for making the most of your group visit to Voodoo Vin? To enjoy Voodoo Vin at its best with a group, arrive a bit early during popular times to secure seating since reservations are not accepted. Start your evening with shared plates such as the Apéro Plate to set a convivial mood, then explore different natural wines, maybe ordering a few bottles to share among the table. Engage the knowledgeable staff for pairing recommendations—they can help tailor your experience based on your group's preferences and desired wine adventure. Bring some curiosity about natural wines and savor the variety of flavors and textures in the food to enhance your sensory experience. Finally, take your time and enjoy the warm atmosphere and music; Voodoo Vin is a place where lingering conversations and relaxed pacing make the gathering truly special.
In summary, Voodoo Vin stands out as a top-tier destination for those seeking an enjoyable, approachable, and authentic group gathering spot. Its unique blend of natural wines, thoughtfully crafted sharable plates, relaxing ambiance, and attentive yet unpretentious service makes it ideal for a wide range of social occasions. Whether celebrating, learning, or simply connecting over memorable food and drinks, Voodoo Vin creates a sense of place and occasion that resonates long after the evening ends.