The Best Wine Bars in LA for Dinner: A Local’s Guide

Welcome to “The best wine bars in la for dinner: A Local’s Guide,” where we dive into the heart of Los Angeles to discover the city’s premier wine bars that double as dining destinations. With each spot offering a uniquely enchanting experience, you’ll be transported from the cozy corners of Little Ripper in Glassell Park with its beetroot aguachile and lamb meatballs to the stylish ambiance of A.O.C. in West Hollywood and Brentwood. Melanie on West 3rd Street will seduce you with its chic vibe and delectable Melanie smash burger, while 1010 Wine and Events in Inglewood fosters community spirit with its Southern-inspired menu. Explore natural and biodynamic wines at Propaganda in the Arts District, savor quirky patio moments at Good Clean Fun in DTLA, and delight in the perfect pairing of canned seafood and fine wine at Kippered near Grand Central Market. Experience the charm of seasonal cuisine at Wife and the Somm, indulge in Spanish dishes at Le Champ, or enjoy the natural wines and ever-changing menu of Holcomb on York Boulevard. Have you ever found yourself in Los Angeles wondering where to enjoy a delightful dinner paired perfectly with an exceptional glass of wine? You’re in luck! Los Angeles is known for its vibrant wine bar scene, offering a range of unique dining experiences. As a local, I’ve compiled a list of the best wine bars in LA where you can savor not just the wines, but also incredible dishes. So, let’s dive into this local’s guide to the best wine bars in LA for dinner.

The Best Wine Bars in LA for Dinner: A Locals Guide

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Little Ripper: Cozy Charm in Glassell Park

Located in the heart of Glassell Park, Little Ripper exudes a cozy atmosphere perfect for an intimate dining experience. Specializing in unique wines and delicious dishes, this place encapsulates the essence of a hidden gem.

Wine Selection

Little Ripper takes pride in offering a curated selection of wines that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Their choices range from traditional favorites to unique international picks. You’ll be sure to find something that perfectly complements your meal.

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Must-Try Dishes

  • Beetroot Aguachile: A refreshing appetizer that brilliantly showcases the restaurant’s innovative approach to classics.
  • Scallop Crudo: A seafood delight that melts in your mouth, paired beautifully with a crisp white wine.
  • Lamb Meatballs: These juicy meatballs are a crowd favorite and a must-try dish for meat lovers.

A.O.C.: Stylish Ambiance and Shared Plates

A.O.C. offers not just one, but two locations—in Brentwood and West Hollywood. Owned by women, this stylish wine bar is popular for its shared plates and happy hour deals, making it ideal for a relaxed, communal dining experience.

Locations and Ambiance

  • Brentwood: Modern and chic, perfect for a laid-back evening.
  • West Hollywood: Trendy and bustling, ideal for those looking to experience the vibrant nightlife.

Popular Shared Plates

  • Charcuterie Boards: A delightful assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and nibbles.
  • Burrata with Grilled Bread: Creamy and luscious, balanced by the crunch of grilled bread.
  • Happy Hour Delights: Great deals on both wine and small plates make it a perfect time to sample their offerings.

Melanie: Chic and Laid-Back on West 3rd Street

Melanie is a small but stylish wine bar located on West 3rd Street. Known for its diverse wine list and popular Melanie smash burger, this place offers a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere.

Diverse Wine List

Melanie boasts a diverse selection of wines, from robust reds to elegant whites. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just starting to explore, you’ll find a wine that suits your palate.

Signature Dish

  • Melanie Smash Burger: A juicy burger that has quickly gained a cult following. It’s the perfect meal to accompany your wine, offering a fine balance between sophisticated and casual dining.

1010 Wine and Events: Community-Oriented in Inglewood

1010 Wine and Events, located in Inglewood, is not just a wine bar but a community hub. It’s the first wine bar in the neighborhood and is known for its Southern-inspired dishes.

Community Vibe

The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, making it an excellent spot for locals and visitors alike to mingle and enjoy great food and wine.

Southern-Inspired Menu

  • Fried Chicken and Waffles: A Southern classic that never disappoints.
  • Shrimp and Grits: Creamy, savory, and utterly delicious.
  • Collard Greens: A quintessential Southern side that’s packed with flavor.

The Best Wine Bars in LA for Dinner: A Locals Guide

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Propaganda: Natural Wines in the Arts District

If you’re a fan of natural and biodynamic wines, Propaganda is your go-to spot. Nestled in the Arts District, this gem offers an enticing menu of Italian-inspired tapas and Roman-style pizzas.

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Focus on Natural Wines

Propaganda specializes in natural and biodynamic wines, making it an exciting destination for those looking to explore eco-friendly wine options.

Italian-Inspired Tapas

  • Bruschetta: Fresh and packed with flavor, perfect for starting your meal.
  • Antipasti: A delightful mix of cured meats, cheeses, and olives.
  • Roman-Style Pizzas: Thin, crispy, and loaded with gourmet toppings.

Good Clean Fun: Quirky Patio Vibes in DTLA

Good Clean Fun, located in Downtown Los Angeles, is known for its quirky patio and laid-back vibes. This spot is a hit for daily happy hour and live DJ music on weekends.

Quirky Ambiance

The quirky patio is perfect for those looking to unwind and have a good time. The airy, casual ambiance sets the tone for a fun and relaxing evening.

Highlights

  • Daily Happy Hour: Great deals on both food and wine for those looking to enjoy a budget-friendly evening.
  • Live DJ Music: Adds an extra layer of fun to your weekend nights.

Kippered: Casual Wine Bar Near Grand Central Market

Kippered is a casual wine bar that’s a stone’s throw away from Grand Central Market. Specializing in canned seafood paired with a variety of wines, it’s a unique spot that will surprise and delight you.

Specialization in Canned Seafood

You might be skeptical about canned seafood, but Kippered does it exceptionally well. Paired with their extensive wine list, it’s an experience worth trying.

Must-Try Options

  • Sardines on Toast: A simple yet flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with their wine offerings.
  • Canned Mussels: Served with a tangy sauce, these are a delightful snack.
  • Assorted Pickles: Complement the seafood dishes perfectly, adding a burst of flavor.

Wife and the Somm: Seasonal Cuisine in a Cozy Setting

Wife and the Somm focuses on seasonal cuisine paired with low-intervention wines. Offering a seafood-heavy menu and freshly made pastas, this spot is all about quality and taste.

Seasonal and Low-Intervention Focus

The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest ingredients available. Their selection of low-intervention wines means you’ll be drinking wines made with minimal chemical and technological intervention.

Highlights

  • Oysters: Fresh, briny, and a perfect way to start your meal.
  • Seafood Pasta: Rich and flavorful, often with a rotating selection depending on what’s fresh.
  • Seasonal Salads: Light and refreshing, made with the best produce of the season.

Le Champ: Spacious Patio in the Arts District

Le Champ, another gem in the Arts District, boasts a spacious patio and a menu offering Spanish dishes along with a global wine list. The relaxed, open-air setup makes it a fantastic choice for any occasion.

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Ambiance

With its spacious patio, Le Champ offers a delightful outdoor dining experience that’s perfect for enjoying LA’s beautiful weather while sipping on wine and savoring delicious food.

Spanish-Inspired Menu

  • Paella: A classic Spanish dish that’s rich, savory, and perfect for sharing.
  • Tapas: Small plates that allow you to sample a variety of flavors.
  • Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with this delicious dessert.

Holcomb: Highland Park Favorite on York Boulevard

Holcomb is a Highland Park favorite, known for its natural wines and ever-changing menu. Located on York Boulevard, it offers a casual yet refined dining experience that locals rave about.

Focus on Natural Wines

Holcomb’s natural wine selection is carefully curated to provide a range of flavors and styles. These wines are produced sustainably using traditional methods, ensuring that each glass is both delicious and eco-friendly.

Rotating Menu

The menu at Holcomb changes frequently, reflecting the freshest ingredients available. This keeps the dining experience exciting and ensures that every visit offers something new.

Notable Dishes

  • Local Charcuterie and Cheese Plates: Perfect for pairing with their natural wines.
  • Seasonal Salads: Bright, fresh, and always flavorful.
  • House-Made Pastas: Often featured and always a hit with diners.

Conclusion

So there you have it—a comprehensive guide to the best wine bars in LA for dinner, curated by a local. Each of these spots offers a unique experience, from cozy atmospheres and community vibes to chic and trendy settings. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just looking to enjoy a great meal with a glass of wine, these wine bars have something for everyone.

So, the next time you’re in Los Angeles and craving a memorable dining experience, make sure to check out one of these fantastic wine bars. Cheers to great food, amazing wine, and unforgettable evenings!

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