Saturday nights usually aren't my thing. But a coworker was celebrating their birthday so I hauled myself out to HP for celebrations. I was expecting to make an appearance, stay the polite amount of time, then bounce. That is not how the night went. At all. Firstly, I was given a Paloma to drink which is very nice. So I was chit chatting and relaxing on the patio with some other folks from work. However, when the friends decided to roll through and we started dancing, that's when the magic happened I hail from the time of yore with folded notes in class and calling for the time on the house phone. I'm old, y'all. So when there's music at a bar, unless it's a flashback night with indie sleeze or other ancient songs, I'm at a loss. I don't know who was DJing that night, but holy shit did that person transcend time and space with the fucking jams. Ranging from 90s house to modern cumbias this dance floor was fucking lit (or whatever the kids are saying nowadays) and we were sweating and dancing our asses off. It wasn't too crowded, the vibes were immaculate and I cannot want to come back with other friends and try again. read more

What a gem this is! A true community establishment in Highland Park. The Offbeat has been in operation for over 10 years and provides an incredibly diverse line up of entertainment. You can find dance parties featuring a wide variety of music styles and eras, comedy nights, Drag shows and brunches, burlesque events, Karaoke, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere. There is a back patio that is usually open, and there are vendor events there on most weekends. The staff are awesome as are the security guards. If you live in Highland Park count yourself very luck. If you are from out of town you need to plan a visit. Check out their schedule and get over here! read more

Recently went for some live music on a Sunday afternoon. Very fun spot and the service was excellent. Prices for drinks are reasonable. We didn't pay attention to prices and our tab was significantly less than what we would have expected from other bars. They don't serve food but they will let you bring it in and there was a taco truck outside. read more

The OffBeat Bar - Live music - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Please install an air conditioner. This is a nice place, but I couldn't stay long at all since it was so hot

The OffBeat is super on beat! This awesome open to all bar meets club in Highland Park is one I have to admit I'm more inclined to make apart of my rotation. From their great service, bartenders, staff and djs in the mix. To their incredible variety of events and ongoings that make this an easy place for any and all to enjoy. And while they have a website their Instagram is where you can stay up on all the latest fun including: Sip & Sing Karaoke Nights Open Mic as well as Stand Up Comedy Nights Exposure Drag, still going strong all these years (shout out to Nikki B., for noting this). Seasonal Halloween Bash And one of my personal favorite Beargarden hosted by an instant fast friend (Emilio loves tacos) and his band of beary/merry humans. They put on an incredible vendor mart, showcase a lot of different local artist, creative and small businesses throughout Los Angeles. Additionally it's a revolution of body positivity, queer as well as pop culture bringing people within the lgbtq+ community together as well as our allies. Haven't been lucky enough to see any bands plat here, but believe me it's on the list! Especially because I know arriving early is the key! Definitely got here an hour or so before Beargarden picked up lol but got to enjoy the AC inside on a very warm day and explore pretty smoothly with less foot traffic. The signature cocktails, mocktail(s) and assortment of bevs at The Off B, are pretty unique. Instant fan of the lounge vibes, outdoor patio, photo booth and decor for sure. Metro was very much my friend here taking the train over to Highland Park station and then getting my steps in, but also a handful of LA Metro busses that go by here. Restrooms are close to perfect. They upkeep them well. Parking in the area is VERY LA/Highland Park with a if you see something, take it immediately suggestion - most parts of York Blvd here are a mix of free parking with limits (1 to 2 hrs), 8am to 6pm w/ exceptions for Sundays. And since they open at 5pm everyday, this makes for a great win win. They do note parking is available with signs for The OffBeat at/behind/near the Rite Aid across the street and the small York Plaza Square next door sometimes has parking available. They have a weekdays happy hour 5pm to 8pm, don't mind if I do! Already planning to pop in again this month. Come feel the beat at The OffBeat! read more

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I never tried the food here but the drinks are good. The service is good the bar tenders are always great depending on what genre music you're into make sure you check out their website or IG read more

Always a cool vibe here. Alex at the door is always super professional and welcoming. Sergio has helped me a few times and is always on point w/ his service too - thank you both so much! They have a nice draft selection & a nice cocktail menu as well. read more

Entitled bartenders, expensive drinks for a hole in the wall. Never coming back here again.

I love The Offbeat. It's one of my go-to spots. I've been here for their huge Halloween parties, Monday night drag show, mid-week burlesque, live bands, Tuesday open decks and karaoke, and lots and lots of popping weekend events, such as my personal fave, Friday night Atomic events. The bartenders and prices are good. The back patio is fantastic. Love that they have a photo booth. The owner, Todd, is super nice, and the DJ's are always great - super sweet people who spin great music. Honestly, can't think of anything negative to say, other than parking can be kind of a pain. It's street parking, and there is very little in front, so you'll likely have to park on a side street and walk a bit. But this place is always welcoming and I always have a great time. Been here multiple times alone, and always felt safe - which is a huge plus for the single ladies! Whether this place is at capacity, or almost-empty, it always has a welcoming, warm vibe. read more

Great place- iconic. Went for my first time to see amazing headlining standup for $12! Folks are nice, staff I mean. Drinks aren't pricey but not cheap for draft either. And it has that divey bar funk as you walk in that I noticed lots of places have been able to avoid or contain. The sound is pretty bad esp music :( but I think it's gonna get a pass cause it feels like a good time, I feel safe and I'm down to come back. read more

The OffBeat Bar - Brett Goldstein dropped in - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Went here for the first time for a comedy show outdoors that was moved from its usual location. I was thankful to have a spacious outdoor spot to see the comedy show with Popular Kids Club and I think I liked the vibe even better than its other location. Drinks were reasonably priced - there was a happy hour that went 5-9 pm (!!) on weekdays that includes beers and a list of cocktails, but did not include wine. Wine comes in a small bottle (or at least what my friend got, like those halfsie 375 ml bottles). Only qualm is having enough seating outdoors - maybe having a few more chairs around would be great. Parking is tough over here so take public transit or an Uber ;) Inside was karaoke then burlesque but I was only inside for a couple mins to order drinks but that looked fun. read more

The OffBeat Bar - Rachel Bloom @ the offbeat with popular kids club show - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I used to come here every Friday, but this time I stopped by on a Sunday. The bartender was very friendly, and I was watching someone playing with a kind of spinning toy. Out of curiosity, I decided to try it myself for the first time. Unfortunately, I accidentally broke a small part of the equipment. The person asked for compensation, and I immediately paid $40 without any argument. What surprised me was what happened next: the bar's security guard, Alex, came over and suddenly kicked me out without any discussion. His reaction felt unnecessarily aggressive and extreme, especially since I had already resolved the issue respectfully. It honestly seemed like he had been waiting for an excuse to treat me this way, as I've noticed similar behavior from him before. This kind of behavior is unacceptable. Guests shouldn't have to deal with hostility from security when they are being cooperative and respectful. read more

Unassuming undercover dive bar in Highland Park on York just east of Figueroa. Black paint on the walls and ceiling, retro lighting inside and a stage for live music. It even has booths. I came on a night featuring live music....a band called " Black Sheriff". The lead guitarist was very engaged with the audience...I enjoyed his enthusiasm. Loud inside but comfortably loud. Impressive cocktail list printed on the chalkboard. I'd come back again. Me likes diversity. read more

The OffBeat Bar - Offbeat bar interior looking towards the band stage. - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Came here to watch someone perform for their very first time in drag. Great venue to host a small intimate show. Huge patio out back and quaint bar overall. Staff is friendly. Parking sucks. Risked parking across the street in a Rite-Aid parking lot. Bathrooms are very clean surprisingly for a bar. read more

The OffBeat Bar - a bar with red lighting - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I love this place! I usually attend the drag shows on Monday night because it is about 1.5 miles from my house. Cover is only $5 and that goes directly to the entertainers. That's a lot cheaper than places like Hamburger Mary's (not that I don't love that venue also) They feature Drag Queens and Drag Queens and the entertainment is always incredible. I've always found the staff and patrons to be welcoming and friendly. I'm so grateful that the Offbeat is so close to me read more

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I was so happy when The Offbeat opened back up after being closed for a year + due to Covid. Besides missing their fantastic staff, DJ's, live shows, and community events I was also missing their fabulous Drag Shows. Pre-Covid the Exposure Drag Show took place every Monday night at 10 p.m. However, since bars are only allowed limited indoor capacity Exposure Drag is now taking place in the back parking lot of the bar at 6 p.m. Every Monday. Currently, you have to make reservations in advance for the show (@exposuredrag) and it sells out quickly. Since it was Memorial Day they put on two shows - One at 3 p.m. and another at 6 p.m. I was fortunate to get tickets for the 3 p.m. show. It was a great way to kick off Pride Month. All the performers were fantastic! (Amber Crane, Siri, Page Person, Charlie G, & M.C. Chloe Darling) We were even treated to a special performance by RuPaul Drag Race Alum La Ganga Estranja. The attendees were also great. Very enthusiastic. I even made a few new friends - the fabulous Anya B Hynz and adorable crew! read more

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A lot of friends bands end up playing here. Good vibes. That Professor Plumb drink is freaking delicious and wil sneaaak up on you. The QT bartender with the bangs and tattoos ! (I like dudes but she was just so pretty). Be back soon xox read more

Great neighborhood bar... Normally come for the drag shows... Still a great bar with nice staff. read more

Best bar in Highland Park! Good live music and drinks, we have celebrated many Birthdays here and it's always a good time!

Great local bar. Great place to meet locals and dance! Very LA feel, with huge backdoor patio.

Great goth nights, djs know what they are doing for the most part. Lots of uncs but vibes are chill. Dont order from the curly hair girl bartender though she got a bitchy attitude and sucks at making overcharged drinks. No hate just being honest lmao.Other than that, recommend coming here for a chill night read more

I really like the atmosphere here. It's a little rowdy (which I like). The karaoke is really fun too, people go off. The Suavi was delicious. It said on google that this was a queer bar, or at least queer friendly, i think it is; which makes me and my friends feel safe. read more

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Vibes are emasculate! Alex, who was working in the back was so nice and accommodating for a friends bday that we decided to have here tonight! Love this bar - drinks and music are great too read more

I do not venture out to Highland Park much. I came here for New Years Eve and I really enjoyed my visit. Cover was free and they had NYE party favors and chips. Since it's a dive bar prices were $11 for Jack and Coke, but with HEAVY pours. The staff was great here and they dealt with the crowds well (bartenders, bouncers). The music was great 80s and 90s. Overall, I'd come here again if friends wanted to come since it is not near me. read more

The OffBeat Bar - NYE 2020 - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This place is always a great time. This experience today was awful. Jackie was the bartender that was rude. She is supposed know how to deescalate situations but just made things worst. It could have turn violent but the security intervened. Jackie needs training on how to handle in diffusing situations. read more

This spot is our regular place we hang out and the staff are always professional who makes us feel safe. The music is awesome and security are very nice to everyone. No cover on Fridays or Saturdays which are the days we go on. Normally myself and my cousins always have a great time dancing or kick it outside patio. read more

What is there not to like about the offbeat, drinks are moderately priced music great on certain nights and there karaoke on Thursday sip n sing keep the madori sours coming yall!!! read more

Went with friends on Friday May 10th. Ordered from the short bartender two pbr's and two jager's. Said I was paying cash and bartender said "$52"! I'm not one to argue, handed him sixty drank our drinks and won't be back! A friend closed out her tab, she was charged NO WHERE near the amount I was. Thanks Offbeat for that great welcome to LA! read more

Guys, drag night is a blast! If you haven't gone, get yourself a front-row seat and check it out. Pro tip: bring cash - dollar bills for tipping. And if you don't have singles, not to worry, they exchange dollars at the bar too. Drinks were strong and decently priced. Parking can be a little difficult so get there early and/or rideshare. read more

Coldest bear in town! They showcase up and coming artists @postcardsforsympathy. Good chill crowd. Wait! Did I mention the COLD BEER. Offbeat serving it up right. Watermelon Fresca is a must. read more

The OffBeat Bar - Cold one - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I am very laid back and enjoy the basics. Karaoke night was amazing, drinks were decent, and people were nice. I would come again if I was in the area. A plus for me, is having a place to sit. read more

Had the anticipation that I would have liked this spot based off of word of mouth, but on the night that I had gone I wasn't too impressed at all. Could have been because it was rap music night? (I don't really care for rap too much). I'm sure the guy was good, don't get me wrong... it just wasn't my cup of tea. Might have also been the time I was there (pretty early in the night so it was kind of empty). It seems like a small bar -- couch seating on one wall, the bar across... stage in the front for performers, a projector playing movies in the back. I did not order anything to drink -- just had the self help water. The security guard was chill and parking was not an issue as we were able to find street parking nearby. I heard 80s night was fun, but I don't know if I would ever go back again. read more

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I wanted to go see the bands Narcan and Gylt on December 3rd but they said their show got canceled when they showed up to play

Ive been a patron if this bar for over 6 years. Ive celebrated two of my birthdays here, been a guest DJ and even promoted an event here. My previous review was 4 stars, but after tonight, Im adjusting my rating to the minimum. I attended an event here tonight with a good turnout and lots of friends who were also part of the show. My complaint is not against the event producer. Tonight the venue created a catwalk on the dance floor with red ropes that only left a 3 to 4 foot pathway from the end of the bathroom hallway into the main room and bar. This area in front of the bar was supposed to dub as bar access to order drinks and also the sideline for the cat walk for patrons to catch the show. This is also the main exit and entrance in and out of the bar from the rear patio and bathroom areas. So, technically, this did not make any sense and was clearly an egress path and safety exit VIOLATION. As an industry peer, I know for a fact that any fire marshal would have easily dinged the venue for this violation and Whom ever allowed this to happen should be reprimanded. Once the show started people were stuck like sardines in the area between the bar and hallway. People could not get in or out. I was one of them. I left the bathroom and tried to make my way to the front of the bar, but was stuck. A security guard who refused to give me his name (lets call him stash cop) kept yelling and pushing me into the crowd to move through. I kept telling him I was trying, but no one was moving. I was holding a drink in my hand that I was trying not to spill on folks. With stash cop pressuring me and the crowd to move I stepped into the cat walk area (That was not yet being used by the performers, INTERMISSION) to get out of the way of the blocked fire access and over crowded bar area. The security immediately grabbed me from my jacket and manhandled me back into the crowded area. Patron's immediately reacted to his inappropriate abuse and called him out. I was forced to make my way to the back patio to collect myself. The security guard spilled my drink on bistanders, humiliated me, scratched my neck, insulted me and disrespected me! What did I do wrong? I tried to follow his orders and get out of the way as he asked. I did not react to his assault! I did not yell back. How could he have handled the situation? he could have used a flashlight (as most venue security do) to direct the patrons into another part of the venue. He could have called me back or asked me nicely to tapped me in the shoulder to get my attention, but he rudely and aggressively grabbed my jacket and yanked me towards him. Please keep in mind, I was only a couple steps in. His actions were clearly an overreach and abuse of his authority! I was supposed to record my friends performance so I let the situation go. I was consoled by friends and people I had just met. The situation was degrading and embarrassing and beyond disrespectful ! I attended the event as a paying patron. I spent over $80 at the bar hosting several of my friends and peers. I was in my 2nd beer or 1 and a half. I was far from drunk. Hence still able to write this revue. As I was leaving the venue, people pointed out the security guard who was in front of the venue. I walked up to him, shook his hand and calmly said " Iknow you are trying to do your job, but there is a right way and a wrong way to treat people". He immediately stopped me and said "I know I grabbed you by the jacket". I calmly tried to communicate with him and gave him several opportunities to apologies and or explain his actions, but he did NOT! He simply asked me if I was hurt. and I replied yes. You manhandled me. You scratched my neck. You unjustly insulted me, physically abused me, degrated me and humiliated me in front of people. PHysically he only scratched me and stretched my shirt collar, but emotionally he caused more damage! Again, I gave him more opportunities to say something positive or apologize, but he did not. So I let him know I would have to yelp him so that the owners know what he did. his response was "GO AHEAD, I DONT CARE" Why am I posting this? My neck scratch will heal, my shirt collar will shrink back into place with the next wash, Im content not finishing my drink that he spilled, but I feel disrespected, abused and not appreciated as a long time patron! This security, clearly does not know how to work under pressure. Clearly does not know the meaning of respect or value of a customer or human being. He was too macho to apologize. Im sure there is video and if not, I have a handful of witnesses! its abusive security guards like this that unnecessary escalate situations and make paying customers feel unsafe. Long story short, I dont regret the nearly $100 tab treating my friends to a few rounds of booze, but this security guard makes me wish I would have stayed at hone. Its been a couple of hours and I still feel dirty and abused. read more

The vibe in this place is great. The people are laid back and pretty friendly. The drinks are severely watered down, save your money. We went on a Friday night when they had 80's night. The DJ was awful, his transitions terrible. He could not consistently keep the crowd energy up, because of the music he was playing. People who like 80's music want to hear the songs they remember. read more

The Offbeat bar is an amazing little dive bar. Been here a few times and I really enjoyed my visit here. The bartenders are awesome and friendly. Came on a Thursday night and it wasn't too crowded just how I like. I hate going into a bar and having a hard time getting the bartender's attention for 1 drink. Definitely not my cup of tea. Therefore, I love the fact that the Offbeat bar is low key and gives out a chill vibe. DJ was great and playing 80s music that night. Also, every Thursday they have a lady giving out free tacos. SCORE! They have a wide variety of drinks and some beers on tap. Also, they have cocktail specials for $10. WOW! That will keep me coming back. There are plenty of parking on the streets and you can park accross the street where Rite Aid is. Just make sure it says Offbeat parking. Overall, great place to hang out with friends. See ya later Offbeat! I will be back! read more

The OffBeat Bar - Beat bait and rude girl specials for $10 each. - Dive Bars Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Excellent vibe and music. Super bartenders and drinks. So glad I found this place. Drag night on Mondays is incredibly fun-I was inspired.

I wish I could give this place 3.5 stars.... My wife and I left a birthday party near ELA and we wanted to get some drinks and hear some 80's music and maybe do some dancing, too. We quickly opened up Yelp and put our criteria in and found this place. Interestingly, I've passed by here more times than I can remember, but never at night, so I never knew this place existed. We were dressed for a night out but this bar was divey and hipster so we were definitely over dressed. The place had a chill vibe to it and the bouncer was cool. No cover charge was a plus. When we walked in, we immediately liked the place with it's retro decor and 80's music playing. My wife's go to is a Don Julio margarita rocks and I went for a Don Julio Paloma. Both drinks were delicious, but this bartender measured everything a little too scientifically, read cheap, so it was a little too balanced (gimme a little more tequila, please...) Standing room only was kind of a drag, but a big party squeezed over and we got a seat (without a table). It was before 11 and there were several large parties. Before we knew it, 11 o'clock rolled around and the place got packed... I mean, really packed... like sardine can packed... The deejay knew how to read the crowd and got everyone dancing (including us). There's no dance floor, so it's dance where you can. The music was mostly late 70's and early 80's pop, funk and soul with little new wave. Michael Jackson songs were frequent and the guy who looked and danced like an early 80's Michael (read 'fro and no plastic surgery) was a trip. Oxy (Occidental College) students were having a great time dancing, Michael included, lol... in fact, it looked like this was an Oxy hangout... however, the crowd was diverse enough to not be a college bar. The music, while pretty good, was hampered by a poor sound system. As a former deejay, I get annoyed by poor sound quality that is distorted with little to no bass and tinny treble. I have speakers at home that sound better... However, no one seemed to care about the poor sound as everyone just enjoyed each other's company. If you've ever been to a backyard house party, that's how this place felt: distorted music played on a home system, people packed in and some good drinks in hand. When the deejays switched, the music turned to 60's and the floor quickly opened up... our second round of drinks were done and we wanted some street taco's outside. So $53.00 later, yes, our 4 drinks were $48.00 without tip, we walked the 40 feet to the taco truck, shivering from the cold air and sweat from our bodies knowing we would be back... soon. Yeah, we're coming back. If the sound system was better and the music were more 80's, this place would be more than 3.5 stars...much more. read more

Local spot in the midst of a residential and shopping area that you wouldn't expect to find a hip bar. Around 10 pm on a Saturday the place wasn't that crowded but once 11 pm hit the place was packed! I was disappointed that no one was dancing even though there was a DJ. Instead people seemed to enjoy talking and drinking sitting down. Even though there wasn't much dancing, the local spot was fun to find something in my neighborhood. read more

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Enjoyed my time at this lil bar. Had lots of fun for Bass waffles. Free Belgium waffles! Hell ya! Then dance it right off to some killer dnb. read more