A Taste (and Sip) of Old Los Angeles
Words by Kit Warchol
Photo by Laine Mostert
Los Angeles often gets misjudged when it comes to history. Sure, it’s a young city compared to the centuries-old brownstones of New York or Chicago. But beneath its modern exterior, LA is full of iconic landmarks that have stood the test of time, from the 1919 steakhouse where Old Hollywood power-lunched (and New Hollywood still does) to the neighborhood dive bars that have aged in all the right ways.
Many of these spots are close to the LINE, tucked between — and sometimes inside — Koreatown’s historic apartment buildings. If you’re after a historic night out on the town, here are just a few spots worth popping into.
HMS Bounty
Walking into HMS Bounty feels like stepping back to a time when “sailor” was still a common profession — or at least when nautical lore ruled Hollywood’s imagination. Located just a couple blocks from the LINE in the lobby of The Gaylord, an ornate 1924 apartment building that the LA Times once deemed “one of the most pretentious buildings in the country,” HMS is the definition of old-school dive. The bar and dining room are decorated with oil paintings of ships, creaky leather booths, and maritime trinkets. It’s the kind of place where conversation and juke-box music flow as smoothly as the well cocktails, which are still under $10 a pop — unheard of in any city. Visit during the holidays, when it’s decked out with festive decor (they’re also open on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve).
What to order: The baseball steak (so named for its shape) has been on the menu for years. It’s unexpectedly good — and pairs perfectly with a very stiff HMS martini or Manhattan.
The Prince
Red leather booths, dim lighting, and vintage wallpaper set the scene at The Prince, a Koreatown treasure that feels straight out of a noir film. (Speaking of cinema, you might recognize it from Mad Men, where it served as the after-hours bar for ad executives). The Prince pairs Korean food with classic Hollywood cocktails for a melded Koreatown experience (it’s also within walking distance from the LINE). Order the fried chicken, a kimchi pancake, and a throwback drink to wash them down. Each booth has a button to buzz your server whenever you need another round. Nowhere else does it quite like this.
What to order: The “half and half” platter of regular and spicy fried chicken.
Lock & Key
It’s not LA without a bit of flair for the dramatic. Lock & Key, also located in Koreatown, nods to the city’s speakeasy era — which, put frankly, was robust. (People are still discovering hidden bars in their houses.) You’ll find the disguised entrance on an unassuming block before entering an intimate bar and lounge where the craft cocktails have a clear 1920s bent. It’s prohibition-history-meets-modern-day-mixology, and we are here for it.
What to order: Whatever seasonal cocktails the bartender’s making. We’re partial to some of the mezcal riffs on classic whiskey cocktails like the Manhattan — our kind of smokey, distinctly LA vibe.
Break Room 86 & Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (Right here at the LINE)
When it comes to iconic nightlife with a side of nostalgia, you don’t have to venture far from your room. The LINE’s dining and drink concepts, created by the renowned Houston Brothers, both pay homage to distinct eras of LA culture.
Break Room 86 is a time machine back to 1980s club culture. With karaoke, themed cocktails, and actual cassette tapes lining the walls, this is nostalgia turned up to an 11. Come for the live music, stay for the karaoke suites.
A few steps across the lobby, and you’ll find yourself in a 1970s lounge that hints at 1920s Gatsby decadence. We’re talking, of course, about Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, a Disco-Deco dreamscape. Think bold patterns, neon lights, and glasses clinking over live music. These two venues prove the LINE doesn’t just offer a place to stay—it’s a destination for an unforgettable LA experience.
What to order: You’ll be spoiled for choice with craft cocktails at both spots. Ask the bartender for a rec.
Shatto 39 Lanes
Bowling alleys may not scream “historic Hollywood,” but Shatto has always shirked convention. This no-fuss spot is packed with patina and boasts that rare “they don’t make them like this anymore” vibe. It’s a common hot spot for birthday and bachelor parties, but it’s also a perfect casual night out, complete with cheap beer and gutter balls (or strikes, if that’s more your thing).
What to order: A well G&T or beer that goes down easy — this is a spot that’s about vibes more than tastes.
Love Hour
If New York is known for pizza, Los Angeles has long been a city of burgers — as evidenced by the many historic diners dotting the city. You can’t call it an LA visit without having at least one. If you’re staying with us in Koreatown, make it the cult-favorite smashburger at Love Hour, the newest venture from Michael Pak, who also co-created LA’s Koreatown Run Club. Love Hour started as a wildly popular pop-up but recently found a permanent home near the LINE on Western Avenue. Stop in for a bite or even just a nightcap — burgers are available until 10pm (9pm on Sundays), but the bar is open until 1:30 most nights, and it always draws a crowd.
What to order: A single or a double burger and a side of fries. Add salt and vinegar seasoning.
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