UCLA has more than just a stunning campus: It’s located in one of L.A.’s most gorgeous areas, a mix of lush landscape and bustling city. Because Westwood remains family-friendly, there are fewer bars than you might expect in a “college town.” But boy, oh frat boy, do the students get their party on at the bars that are on the scene.
O'Hara's
Just a keg stand away from campus, O'Hara's beer-soaked floors get bumpin' with frat bros and sorority sistas on a regular basis. Recently under new management, the bar was recently renamed, but Bruins still call the bar by its old name: Maloney's. You’ll want to come early Thursdays through Saturdays to avoid a line at the door and join the hot-bodied crowd.
Palomino
If you’re over the Greek-heavy scene at O'Hara's, step into the luxurious Palomino. The Euro-inspired bar and restaurant gets sparkling with old-monied Westwooders and student sophisticates who sip on everything from lavender cosmos to the house chardonnay. Savvy Bruins come for the late-night happy hour, with $5 pizzas from 10 p.m. till closing.
Mandrake
Arts students who’d never be caught mid-drink in one of the prepster Westwood bars head to this Culver City hideaway. Located among a number of galleries, Mandrake lures an arty crowd for film screenings, rotating exhibits and laid-back conversation.
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