Hollywood, Los Angeles · bar
Perched up a discreet staircase off Melrose, this Art Deco hideout conjures ’30s cinematic glam without the velvet rope ego. Rich wood paneling, mohair booths, and wedding‑cake pendants set the mood while bartenders sling cocktails that feel like mini culinary adventures. Walk‑ins can snag the bar, but big booth groups? Definitely reserve those. It’s cozy enough for quiet confessionals and kooky enough for group text energy. Bar Benjamin delivers both with polish and just enough edge.
Hand-chopped beef, capers, egg yolk, Dijon. Friday nights only.
Mezcal, yellow bell pepper, fermented mango, acid-adjusted pineapple, saffron. Finishes smoky.
White chocolate olive oil tequila with English peas, sherry, lemon and macadamia.
White miso, rye whiskey, sweet vermouth. Umami-forward.
Coconut rum and gin with red curry and lemongrass foam.