From a cozy Italian spot, to a wine bar that could double as your living room, to an arcade where you can sip a dizzying lineup up craft beers, these spots showcase Highland Park’s personality in spades.
Hippo
📍 5916 1/2 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Hippo might just be Highland Park’s culinary bathrobe: unnecessary but utterly comforting. This sort-of-Italian, very-LA eatery takes the familiar—a space decked out in industrial chic and a menu filled with crudos and grilled meats—and spins it into something you’ll want to wrap yourself up in, especially the sweet corn cappellacci bathed in mushroom sauce. It’s a place that turns a casual dinner into an “I need to post this on my story”, without making you feel like you’re trying too hard.
Know Before You Go
✔ The ceviche with housemade tortilla chips is a crowd-pleaser; don’t skip it.
✔ It’s easy to overlook, so keep your eyes peeled for the door.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
Holcomb
📍 5535 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Run by the folks behind Bar Covell, this spot in Highland Park marries the ease of a local hangout with the charm of a first-date spot. Leather booths, floral wallpaper, and a dog-friendly patio set the stage for an evening where wine is the main event. The staff are pros at helping you navigate their impressive wine list, and the bar snacks are just as thoughtfully curated. It’s casual enough for a midweek wine run, yet stylish enough to impress.
Know Before You Go
✔ Take advantage of the tasting opportunity; the staff are great guides.
✔ The front patio is perfect for wine lovers who don’t want to leave their pups at home.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
Barcade
📍 5684 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Barcade is where grown-up tastes and childhood games collide in a symphony of retro arcade cabinets and craft beer taps. This place is a time machine back to the neon-lit, high-score chasing days of the ’80s, except now you can appreciate a good IPA while you play. This original arcade bar has grown into a haven for those looking to relive their pixelated past without sacrificing their drink standards.
Know Before You Go
✔ The craft beer selection is unmatched.
✔ It gets busy, especially on weekends, so maybe hit those joysticks on a weekday if you dislike crowds.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
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