In L.A., where it’s sunny and warm well into November, chances to put on a winter coat or bundle up in a sweater can be few and far between. But now that the temperature is finally starting to drop and the nights are about to get longer, we say it’s the perfect time to cozy up to these warm, log-cabin-esque bars. After a few drinks, you might even forget that tomorrow’s forecast promises clear skies and 80 degrees.
When a trip to Sequoia National Park is out of the question, an evening at the Woods is the next best thing. It’s in a strip mall on La Brea Avenue next to ice cream shop Mashti Malone’s, but the forest-themed bar will suspend your disbelief with its chandeliers made out of antlers, tables carved from tree trunks and electric stars gleaming from the ceiling. Order the Hollow Point shot and you'll wish you'd brought your sleeping bag to pass out in.
Atwater Village’s Bigfoot Lodge has a similar theme, though the execution is decidedly kitschier, thanks the Girl Scout Cookie martinis and the life-size Smokey the Bear statue. Bigfoot might inspire nostalgia for childhood camping trips, but make no mistake: This faux mountain lodge only gets it on with adults.
Feeling romantic? The Griffin, located within stumbling distance of Bigfoot, sparks a cozy vibe with low-lit lanterns, domed brick ceilings, rich woods and spacious red leather couches that circle around two modular fireplaces in the middle of the room. The drinks are mighty strong too, which could put you and your date in the mood for romance.
Prefer the flame on your drink instead? The dapper bartenders at Seven Grand serve their Sazeracs on fire—literally. The bar’s Downtown location may not feel as rustic as the others, especially with the picture windows looking onto the cityscape, but inside the place is decked out with plaid prints, stag heads and brick walls.
Now if only it stayed cool for more than a couple of months.
Alexandra Le Tellier is Bars & Clubs editor for Metromix Los Angeles.
