Best Bars In Glendale

When you think of Glendale, Armenian bakeries, The Glendale Galleria and other destinations come to mind. Glendale also offers many terrific places if planning a night out in the city. Some of these bars are classy, while others are more of the dive bar type.

(credit: Steve Skorupa)

The Glendale Tap
4227 San Fernando Road
Glendale, CA 91204
(818) 241-4227
www.glendaletap.com

Offering more than 50 craft beers from all around the world, The Glendale Tap is a great place for beer lovers. Curated and constantly rotated, the beer selection is the envy of other neighborhood bars in Glendale and is a favorite for locals to stop by. And, while this Glendale watering hole offers many modern beverage amenities, it nevertheless offers an old time-y feel. The decor includes rusty beer cans, which gives it a touch of a dive bar feel, without actually being a dive bar.

(credit: Dave T./yelp)

The Famous
54 S. Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91205
(818) 241-2888
www.facebook.com/thefamousbar

You can find The Famous in an historic building, the Huntley-Evans, which has been in Glendale for the last century. The Famous uses bitters, juices, syrups, and infusions, created in-house using fresh ingredients from local markets and growers, the same way it's done since way back in 1856. They play classic rock most of the time, but they also present live folk bands on Tuesdays.

(credit: Marie-Katherine W./yelp)

Avignone's
2321 Honolulu Ave.
Montrose, CA 91020
(818) 249-5471
www.facebook.com/Avignones

Avignone's has a cool, retro 70s look. With drinks reasonably priced, Avignone's offers a real jukebox which is essential to the bar experience. Don't be surprised if someone plays Frank Sinatra on that jukebox, either. Also, the pool tables are in good shape to play a game with locals, or with your friends. Is it a dive bar? Well, maybe. And sometimes, this is the experience you're seeking.

(credit: Brian H./yelp)

SideBar
1114 N. Pacific Ave
Glendale, CA 91202
(818) 546-8512
www.facebook.com/sidebarglendaleca

This local watering hole is known for their reasonably priced and great drinks. Whether you're looking for a selection of beer, or other cocktails, they have it. And, there aren't many places where you can order a Fruit Loop Martini. But, SideBar is one. Here, the cocktail lounge is open from 12 pm to 2 am. It's good for walk-ins. It also takes reservations and is great for groups. The bar is also known for their friendly staff, and great happy hour.

(credit: Vahagn G./yelp)

Tavern on Brand
208 N. Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91203
(818) 291-1926
www.tavernonbrand.com

If you're planning to go see a show at the Alex Theatre and you'd like to have drink right after the performance, Tavern on Brand is the place to visit. Located on Brand right next door to the theatre, this is the perfect spot for a nightcap too. In addition to drinks, though, you can also get great food here It's classy, inside and out, and can extend your entertaining entertainment evening.

By Dan MacIntosh