The Varnish
Welcome to The Varnish, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, known for its intimate and classy ambiance, impeccable service, and innovative cocktail menu. Located at 118 E 6th St, The Varnish is a speakeasy tucked behind LA's oldest bar, Cole's, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for cocktail enthusiasts.
Step into The Varnish, and you'll be transported to a world of dimly lit sophistication, where the bartenders have a knack for creating personalized drinks that will pleasantly surprise you. Customers rave about the refreshing lime and ginger whiskey drink, as well as the bartender's choice option, where the mixologist crafts a drink based on your spirit preference and flavor profile.
Aside from the exceptional cocktails, The Varnish also boasts live music nights, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for recommendations or even create a new drink together.
While parking may be a bit of a challenge, the overall experience at The Varnish is well worth it. So, if you're looking for a cozy and inviting spot to unwind with a carefully crafted cocktail, The Varnish is the place to be.
The Varnish Menu
Location
Address: 118 E 6th St Los Angeles, CA 90014
Phone: (213) 265-7089
Business info
- Walk-ins WelcomeYes
- ReservationsNo
- Wheelchair accessibleYes
- Accepts Credit CardsYes
- Accepts Android PayNo
- Accepts Apple PayNo
- Accepts CryptocurrencyNo
- Outdoor SeatingYes
- Intimate, ClassyYes
- Moderate NoiseYes
- Good for GroupsYes
- Pool TableYes
- Street ParkingYes
- Live MusicYes
- Best nights on Thursday, Friday, SaturdayYes
- Full BarYes
- Open to AllYes
- Not Good For DancingNo
- Wi-FiNo
- SmokingNo
- Dogs Not AllowedNo
- TVNo
- Bike ParkingNo
Last Reviews
-
Author: Merry W.
I felt privileged to be able to go to the Varnish before they closed their doors. Overall my experience was incredible: i felt well taken care of by the bar service, the bartenders somehow could read my mind and made me drinks I didn't even knew I needed. I'm still dreaming of the super refreshing lime and ginger whisky drink that was made for me. i was set up right next to the jazz band performing that night and you couldn't have asked for a more intimate concert experience. The only thing that could have made my experience better is if I brought a friend or two along to enjoy the night with me! But for an impromptu visit I couldn't have asked for anything more! I wish there were more places like this out in the world- such a wonderful hidden community.
-
Author: Michael C.
It's a shame that it is closing in about 2 days so almost no point in reading this review. Just so sad
-
Author: Nicole V.
I love myself a good hidden speakeasy. This one is located in the back of Cole's past the bathrooms and pool table. The ambience is really nice and service was friendly. My boyfriend didn't know what to get so he got the bartender's choice which is when the bartender asked what spirit he wanted and a sort of flavor profile before creating the drink. It was a cool experience! I'm sad to hear that The Varnish is closing but I'm excited to see what comes here next!
-
Author: David G.
The varnish is really cozy and has a dim lit classy ambiance to it with amazing music and amazing drinks! I also want to leave a thanks to our waitress who attended us Emmy. She was ever knowledgeable about the drinks and showed us some new cocktails that we would not normally order. Bonus points for Emmy because my date accidentally spilled a drink and rather than making it a big deal Emmy smiled and told my date "hey no worries! It happens to the best of us!". We were a little embarrassed but Emmy played it off and told my date to not worry and got us towels to clean up. I really appreciated her doing that. Thanks Emmy!