Post #596907 by JOHN-O on Sun, Jul 10, 2011 4:29 PM

On 2011-07-07 14:07, harro wrote:
...is there a particular area in LA that is best suited for easy access between the various bars?

Based on the places you mentioned I'd say Downtown LA, but I'm not sure if you'd prefer a more "beachy" tourist location. Most of those places are spread out pretty far and in rush hour traffic, the drive could be pretty frustrating. I'd recommend the following:

1. As you're driving north from San Diego, stay in Huntington Beach or Sunset Beach on Monday for Don's. There are several inexpensive motels in walking distance (not sure what your budget is).

2. The following day you could drive north on the 605 freeway to Whittier for Oceanic Arts, and then east on the 10 freeway for a visit to the Bahooka in Rosemead (which is open from Noon on). Arguably there's not too much else of interest in those areas for your typical tourist, although Bahooka is located in the San Gabriel Valley where you'll find hundreds of authentic Chinese restaurants. From there head towards Downtown LA or Hollywood for your next hotel.

3. Either location has practical access to East Hollywood for Tiki Ti and North Hollywood (completely separate city despite the name) for Tonga Hut and Tiki No, as well as the Downtown LA Trader Vics. Too bad you can't experience Tonga Hut on Sunday afternoons, the vibe is VERY different with the majority TC crowd and of course Marty Lush spinin' and Kelly mixin'. FYI, it's best to get to Tiki Ti early as later in the evening bar seating can be scarce.

4. If you're flying out of LAX after 3:30pm, Purple Orchid in El Segundo is not too far from the airport.