First time there last night, and I really enjoyed the vibe and aesthetic they have going. Dim lighting, some comfortable seating areas, and cool vaulted ceiling. Awesome house music and great volume for the space. Great location if you're looking to just vibe and listen to some good music. The main pain point I noticed all night is getting your drinks took a very long time. This was happening even when the bar wasn't too busy. It seemed like a combo of the bartender getting caught up in conversation and sometimes just straight up forgetting the order after those convos. I saw this happen a few times. I'm not sure if it's like this every night, but something to keep in mind when coming here. read more

I'm intolerant/allergic to alcohol (though they do have zero proof stuff!), but I mostly came here to drop by a Visual Kei after party after the Kamijo in Los Angeles concert. We were able to find free street parking nearby and walk over. They check ID's at the front and the security who did so was decently polite. He took in a lost Round 1 card and let us know about the venue a bit and that there's a semi covered out door patio. Which is pretty neat. I like the pillows and benches, dim lighting, and the like open gate brick to the street. The architecture of this bar is pretty interesting too. It's like an angular interior of a barn, but also like a tube too. Dim, ambient lighting, pretty decent acoustics for all of the tanbi kei and other visual kei classics they were spinning through the night. It didn't get overly loud when we were there, but it was starting to get a bit tight and crowded as more people came in. Small space past the patio for some seating and a small "dance floor". A couple seats at the bar and adjacent and before you go to the hallway to the restrooms, there were seats there too. I do appreciate the unique decor and ambience the place has. Very artistic in a lounge-y, fancy way. Restrooms were clean and made for a great place to talk selfies at. I'm not really a bar or a drinking person, but this was a neat venue to drop by! read more

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Great spot for a cozy date night. I stopped by after checking out a few galleries during DTLA art night and instantly loved the atmosphere here. Inside you'll find an intimate, dimly lit space with a beautiful bar, warm lighting, and a swanky yet relaxed vibe. The hand drawn art on the walls adds a nice creative touch. They occasionally host free live jazz nights. I believe last night was hosted by slow jamz gallery which was a vibe. There's just something about listening to live jazz while sipping a great cocktail or glass of wine that makes the night feel special. Definitely planning to come back here again soon. read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This bar is so cute! My friend commented that it feels like we're not in DTLA and that the style is more like what we'd expect in Echo Park and Silverlake. A lot of what we'd expect in DTLA is an industrial-chic or warehouse look with loud music, energy, and good for socializing. Here, the "Euro-style" feels intimate and elegant, a place you want to sit and linger with a friend or date. The bar is shaped like a tunnel, and as I sat at the end, it almost felt like being in an old train, someplace intimate and enclosed. I had one drink, and it was refreshing. My friend had a glass of wine that I finished since he had to drive. The bartenders were great. There was a birthday group, which made the place a bit lively for a Thursday night. I'm sure it's very busy on the weekends. It's a cute spot, and even people on the sidewalk told us to go in. read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Bar Franca has amazing vibes and the ambience on a rainy day was perfect. The drinks are a great deal with three for forty even for cocktails, which made the night even better. Service was super friendly and welcoming the entire time. There is a big dancing sign that looks like it leads somewhere fun but it actually just takes you to the bathroom which threw me off and made me laugh. The place got packed but in a good lively way. The art on the walls is beautiful and adds a lot of character. I will definitely be coming back because the energy, the drinks, and the space were all top tier. read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Great staff, love their signature cocktails and their latest DJ set series. Highly recommend on Saturdays

I can't say enough good things about Bar Franca. From the moment you walk in, the vibe is immaculate warm, stylish, and effortlessly cool. The decor is stunning, with a layout that feels both intimate and spacious, and the lighting makes it such a great spot for photos. The music is always on point. Incredible DJs, amazing energy, and a dance floor that just pulls you in. Whether you're there to dance, socialize, or just enjoy a great cocktail, it hits every note. The drinks are excellent, the atmosphere feels elevated but welcoming, and the outdoor/smoking area is comfortable and thoughtfully designed perfect for stepping out without losing the vibe. I also celebrated my birthday here and it was hands down one of the best birthdays I've ever had. Everything felt special, effortless, and joyful perfect vibes all around. This place really knows how to create an unforgettable night. If you're looking for a bar with great music, beautiful decor, and an overall amazing energy, this has quickly become one of my favorite spots. Truly a gem. Bonus: there are convenient parking lots directly across the street, which makes getting in and out easy. read more

One of my favorite spots to make a stop at after indulging in some hand rolls right across the street. Don't look for a sign that says Bar Franca; look for the neon cherries. On a Saturday night, you may find a friendly door man, outdoor covered seating, a dj playing some 90s hip hop, long bar and great wall paper and lighting. read more

Got my bill @ saw that there was a $2 upcharge for some reason & when I asked the bartender about it - they said it was bc I asked for soda/tonic? So on top of my $12 well gin, I'm expected to pay for the soda as well? I also bartend one block away and have never heard of this before so just wondering if anyone else has had this experience here? read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

IDs checked at the door, cool, i'm 21 lol nothing to worry about. Coming inside, I hear that the boss goes to security to ask if i'm actually 21. Found that kind of weird, unless he double checks every single person that comes in. Ruined the vibes but it's okay i'm a chill guy I just wanted to listen to music. Come inside Vibes and music were amazing props to the artists and workers who make it possible. Great community check it out just hope you don't have the same experience as me. Do better for others :). read more

Very chill spot with nice outdoor areas. The service was fast and great even on a Fri night.

Alexa play Black Mambo by Glass Animals... DTLA Night... chill vibes mood elevated bar with dim lighting, captivating art, close seating of all forms and plenty of beverage options... Including speciality cocktails... This strictly beverage bar is definitely a diamond in the rough that doesn't jump out at you when seeking it out... Bar Franca has so much sheen and star quality in service, sips and sensory. Parking garages nearby as well as the Metro Stations for smooth travel to and from... Haven't been here since right before everything shut down so not sure if they're offering to go cocktails like some other bars and restaurants... but would recommend trying a little of everything and definitely in person when permitted. read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This is the kind of bar you find yourself singing the sad songs of the 500 Days of Summer soundtrack in, and no I can't describe the vibe beyond that. At night the lighting stays dim and gives a warm glow over the "shotgun" style bar, with natural light pouring in through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the front entrance. On the night I visited (pre-COVID) it was quiet, and you could barely make out the murmurs of the other guests' conversations. The added plants and various sofas make the bar that much cozier. There definitely aren't many bars like this in LA, especially in this area. The menu is simple and direct. "We know what we'd like to serve, and if you don't like it then you can leave," sorta thing. They only offer nuts, olives, and pickled veggies as snacks. My idea of "bespoke" cocktails (as described on their yelp page) is that you tell them what you like and they make you your perfect drink, but I don't know if they specialize in that. I just ordered something off their cocktail menu, which only had six or so cocktail options. The drink I ordered (the name of which I can't remember) was sweet and refreshing, and after checking the last published menu I can see the drinks are rotated frequently. I love a bar with a good rotation. So far I've seen that their drinks are mostly nutty, fruity, or floral, and I am 100% down with earthy cocktails. I also ordered the olives (I love olives) and they did not disappoint. This bar is a delightfully feminine experience that is comfortable for some and perhaps exciting for others. Perfect place for a romantic date or for ending a relationship in. Can't wait to come back. read more

Bar Franca - All that Glitters and olives - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Kind and cute staff, solid drinks, drag shows, atmosphere is dim and sexy. I kinda love it. read more

Bar Franca - a green couch with pillows in front of a window - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I happened to stumble upon this bar on my way to Badmaash nearby. I was intrigued by the nondescript neon cherry on the outside and decided to come after dinner. As a South Park resident, I rarely venture to this side of DTLA but now I really wish this spot was closer. It's a pretty chill, low-key bar with a great vibe and quality drinks. The DJ was playing music that gave me Gitano gypsy disco vibes. Also, she was spinning on real vinyl and not a laptop, which I thought was pretty cool. The bartenders both seemed very knowledgeable and skilled at their craft. I got one of their signature cocktails and a modified paper plane. Both were great. Overall loved the ambiance. Legit DJ. Legit bartenders. Great music. Great decor. It's a chill spot where you can relax, grab a drink and vibe. read more

Bar Franca - the entrance to the restaurant - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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The venue is so nice. Service was slow to start but picked up towards the end when they turned over bartenders. They had an all DJ crew tonight that was so nice! Music style was 2000s R&B read more

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Great drink spot in downtown LA. Ran into here for a quick happy hour while passing through and loved the atmosphere. Between the chatty bar staff and warm decor, the spot was a standout compared to some of the more well-known bars around. Drinks were well done and they accomodated a quick substitution based on dietary restrictions. Thank you for a wondeful evening! read more

Went for an event called Aziz Amor, great vibe, great drinks, great time...had blast, looking forward to returning soon to check out other nights. Beautiful space with a nice crowd. read more

Must go to bar in DTLA! This is the place you find yourself going to after the sun sets and you and your friends are looking for a spot to relax and enjoy the evening, ambience is amazing and comfortable. I will be returning here! Love the vibes read more

Came here for Divorce Party's NYE celebration (not just for divorcees, but I think it is more divorcee-friendly than most places?). We paid $15 for tickets through Eventbrite and were in the door after 1 minute (though this may have been due to the rain). We got 3 of their cocktails--all were great and reasonably priced (~$16) for NYE! The bartenders were very generous. One of them accidentally knocked over a glass that spilled on me and offered my partner and I a free shot each! Another time, my partner and I ordered an espresso martini, and they made us an extra without asking. On top of that, they also had an ice luge that we took a shot from, as well as a complimentary champagne toast at midnight! We really enjoyed the crowd here, as we have been looking for a female-friendly queer bar (though it is not at all exclusively female-friendly) to go to for a while. We also loved DJ Couples Therapy! There is also a small room in the back separate from the main bar area. Would love to come back on a normal night to see how things are. read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I was overcharged for a drink. The manager handled this error in an expedited manner. The ambiance of this bar is lovely. The bar tender who serviced me was kind and attentive. The doorman was welcoming and professional. read more

Awesome cocktail bar in DTLA with a relaxed vibe and exceptional craft cocktails. Located a stones throw away from the Regent Theatre, lending itself for a great 1st stop when catching a live performance in the area. read more

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European vibe bar in the middle of DTLA. Very cozy! Great cocktail drinks, baristas are knowledgeable with liquor and alcohol! Check them out read more

Such a great bar, wonderful service. The bartender gave us an explanation about amari, tequila and mezcal. So knowledgeable and friendly. We even got a sample of a Mexican amaro. This cute little bar is such a nice gem in this neighborhood. read more

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Definitely flying under the radar at the moment. Thank you for bringing back the OG spirit of DTLA!! Just the right vibe: the decor (check the pix), no obnoxious customers, no excruciating waits to get a drink order in, and not deafening loud. With my last wish: no more wrong way drivers - please? As a stand up comic once said, if you're a broke man you're going to be thirsty and lonely. So expect the new black prices. So guys if you're not already planning to impress your dating app bae of the day here; 2019 is not looking good for your love horoscope. Dare I say The Varnish has a serious competitor for those looking to connect?! The non-alcoholic Agua Fresca was great. Tho spendy it refreshed like a pressed juice with just a bit more sugar. A real surprise. It's nearly across the street from Kazu Nori - a match made in heaven. Don't invite me to your wedding, I have spent too much in a lifetime on gifting newlyweds. read more

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Found Bar Franca via IG (Instagram) long before I actually had accidentally walked past a tiny opening with a dimly lit light shining and shadowy figures moving around inside -- it was the neon signage of the symbolic cherry that initially caught my attention from the sidewalk. I was on my way to a show at The Regent to see POND :D when I took a few steps back, asked the security guard if it was a private party -- but he said I could go in. There were quite a few people inside all of who kind of seemed to know each other. I later found out it was an architect party where I believe it was the first time the people who designed the place got to hang out and see/live it in action. Loved the ambiance -- the low lighting, the decor that was strategically picked out and placed on the bar, the artwork on the walls, even the restroom was nicely designed. The space is narrow, but long. There is a small outdoor patio in front -- you'll walk past it to get inside. There are a few tables towards the front and back of the interior and a long bar to snag a seat at as well as a wall table/shelf thing on the opposite side where you're able to stand w/ your drink. Might be hard to see from the street, but if you see a pair of cherries outside, you know you've found the spot :] I had the Fizzy Drifting Link (reminds me of the fizzy lifting drink, so I liked the name). It was nice and strong and was greatly enjoyed amongst the crowd. If I had more time, I would have wanted to try the Lovebird and Little Number. Wish I could take my friends here -- will be telling them about it. read more

One of my favorite bars in downtown L.A. "Drinks & laughter, what comes after" For a unique Parisian experience visit this charming bar and enjoy a refreshing drink made by Eder the bartender and say hello to the very friendly owner, Rachel Thomas and her dog, Porter - a regular at the bar. I had the Mariposa Rosa which was quite refreshing and very reasonably priced. read more

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Quiet. Cozy. Romantic. Decent beer selection. Great music and a clean bathroom. Can't ask for more in a bar. Will definitely be back!

I love this place every time I come for divorce I just love sitting and vibing out ! Beautiful scenery love the location different and personal! read more

Queer Cheers. This is a hidden gem in DTLA, it's a cute lowkey spot. Warning it does get crowded so plan accordingly. It's a space for people that are wall flowers to blossom and to mingle. read more

Bar Franca has the aesthetics but not quite the structure. The dance room is unnervingly small through a long hallway. The drinks are fine, though I like the option of a cheap wine for those not into expensive DTLA cocktails. Service is friendly. The bar area itself is jam packed in the most uncomfortable and unsexy way. If you are a dtla casual, then maybe this is for you but otherwise would not go out of my way for this. read more

They don't staff enough bartenders. It takes an hour to get a drink and the bartenders they do have are super rude. Mainly the male bartenders. I didn't have a good experience and I've been there three times. Always disappointed. read more

Great way to end a night of trying new places. Felt very east coast. Thin room, long wood bar. Play list was especially good. The bar tenders all seem a bit new to the game but it wasn't crowded. Few low tables in front. Had a few smoking tables at street but didn't come into bar. Neighborhood bit sketchy. We walked over while sun was setting but Ubered out. read more

Bar Franca - Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

The worst service I ever experienced was at this bar. I'm shocked. When my friend and I approached the bar we asked for two long islands. The unbelievably rude and passive aggressive bar tender gave us a 'fake smile' and said - "No. Absolutely not. This is an adult bar, we serve adults drinks". I was lost for words at how incredibly rude someone in hospitality could be. After this shock, my friend (who's birthday it was) asked for a French 75. I was contemplating whether I wanted one too, and even contemplating not ordering from this awful server. She then proceeding to patronisingly explain to me (as if so was 3 years old) what a French 75 is. I stopped her, and said "I know what it is". This girl needs to be fired immediately. It was the worst encounter I've ever had with a server. read more

What an awesome hidden gem. Really enjoyed my time here with friends... they had really friendly staff, amazing drinks and loved the décor/vibe. The owner was there when we came in and she really made you feel welcomed and appreciated. Definitely recommend coming in for a date, biz drinks, friends or solo just to have a drink and meet/socialize with cool friendly people. Will be back :) read more

The closest thing to a lesbian night I could find downtown! Very beautiful location, great drinks, wonderful atmosphere.

What a surprise and delight it was to finally check this spot out. It's been on my to-go list for what feels like ages. There really is not a place I have found in DTLA quite like it. In an area that is a bit sketchy, it's a true oasis. Follow the pair of cherries on the top of the entrance to bring you into this gorgeous space. Incredible bar with some great selections (check out the scotch!) and cocktail menu. That it's women-owned and operated just adds to the appeal. Nothing like a woman's touch to spice up a place - the playlist that day was on point with creating a serious vibe in there, it smelled good inside, and I found myself staring at the walls (in a good way) with all the design elements. I was with a friend who was coping with a fresh breakup and Bar Franca was the one and only spot where her mood started lifting. The staff there was so kind, fun, and supportive without coming across impatient or patronizing. Shout out to Diana (bar manager) and Ana (newbie), and especially the owner RACHEL who is a true maven. For someone who has been in the industry for as long as she (I couldn't believe The Perch and The Must, a bar I LOVED, used to be hers), she is approachable, talented (she designed the entire place) but most importantly, GETS IT. We had a nice chat about how in this day and age, it is so hard to find a solid "bar"...one that is not a dive, but not too fancy or gimmicky with the ridiculously-priced drinks. Something that has class, feels comfortable, and you can order whatever you damn well please...be it wine, shot, cocktail, scotch, anything...and fit right in. Bar Franca is it. read more

The fucking BEST. Charming, comfortable, great lighting and outstanding drinks. Woman-friendly in a way I can't describe, that goes beyond the pink walls and female figure drawings. There's just a calm, warm energy. Oh, and the bar manager rules. She is so friendly and professional and can throw together a bartender's choice cocktail with some weird-ass combination that somehow tastes awesome. I love people who can surprise you! The ambiance, the drinks, the gram-ability... whatever calls you, just go. You'll be glad you did. read more

Came here on a Tuesday night and I was pleasantly surprised to find that they had a comedy show going on! Absolutely loved the pairing of comedy and delicious drinks that the place had to offer! Very friendly staff, and the show runners put on a great night! Left a happy camper, can't wait to come back soon! read more

Perfect date spot in dtla. Hidden and still soulfully vibrant and has the old Mediterranean bath house feel. Signature cocktails is a must try. I ended up with old fashion because it's one of my go to drinks to every bar that I've never been. It's like going to every diner and see how they cook their eggs. You can't really fuck up eggs and if they do, then they're doing something wrong. Great vibe, clean and beautiful people all around. read more