UNITED STATES—Planning a trip to California or simply looking for a new favorite bar for your next Friday night out? New concepts, beautiful spaces, and drinks worth posting about – this year’s bar scene is raising the bar. From creative cocktail labs in Los Angeles to hidden spots in San Francisco, here are some of the most talked-about bar openings in 2025.
1. Bar Benjamin (Los Angeles)
Let’s start in Downtown LA, where Bar Benjamin has taken over the space of a former gallery. As you enter, you’ll notice an artsy, timeless atmosphere with red velvet booths and vintage posters on the walls. It’s the kind of place where you can both have a casual Thursday drink or take your crush on a first date.
Signature cocktails mix old-school spirits with playful ingredients. You’ll find combinations like coconut rum with jalapeño or rose gin with Rocky’s matcha. The prices are not the cheapest, but the professional service and presentation speak for themselves. If you’re hungry, don’t miss the small plates selection like chips, shrimp roll, meat and cheese, and more.
2. Bar 109 (Los Angeles)
Around 5 minutes’ drive away from Bar Benjamin is Bar 109, a sleek, industrial-style venue with minimal décor and low lighting. There are no reservations, and it stays open until midnight, making it a great spot for a spontaneous night out.
This bar is your go-to if you prefer draft cocktails, house-made infusions, excellent wine, or just a solid gin and tonic and enjoy minimalist spaces. Moreover, the bartenders are happy to customize drinks based on your taste. If you’d like to eat out, wait for the opening of Corridor 109, restaurant that is currently in development at the back portion of the bar.
3. Daisy Margarita Bar (Los Angeles)
Still in LA, we move to the Sherman Oaks neighborhood, where Daisy Margarita Bar just opened its doors this summer. The aim of the bar is to preserve Mexican culture with a modern touch. You will enter a wood-paneled, warm place, and immediately notice the Mexican art on the walls and a general vaquero vibe. Overall, it feels like a cantina-meets-cocktail-lounge hybrid.
In their whole menu, you can feel the Mexican tradition, with reinvented classic dishes, a raw seafood bar, and a selection of tequila. As its name suggests, you’ll be able to choose from different kinds of margaritas, from classic, through mango, passionfruit, or a mezcal version, or even pick a special one from the “salsa bar.” If you’re not a margarita fan, there’s a short-but-sweet list of other Mexican beverages. Make sure to also check out the Mexican menu, where you’ll find everything from tacos to carne asada.
4. Bar Darling (San Francisco)
Heading to San Francisco, Bar Darling is one of the most charming spots to open in 2025. Located on Chestnut Street in the Marina District, this cozy bar’s design was inspired by the natural elements of the region like oak, redwood, and cypress trees.
And why is the bar called Darling? There’s actually a really sweet story behind it. It’s named after one of the founders’ grandparents, who always called each other “darling.” Their warmth and love can be felt in every part of the space.
The bar is ideal for you if you need to slow down, relax, and reconnect with nature. The warm lightning feels like a candlelight and adds to the calming atmosphere.
Bar Darling serves seasonal cocktails, beer, and wine, and a range of shared snacks. If you’re looking for a quiet place to talk over drinks or meet someone for a thoughtful conversation, this is the perfect place to be.
5. Hard Rock Sports Bar (Fire Mountain)
Online gambling at casinos such as those listed on Casino Guru USA has become a popular choice among players across California. But if you remain a fan of land-based gambling, you shouldn’t miss a drink at the Hard Rock Sports Bar, opening this November in Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Fire Mountain.
If you like sports and a lively atmosphere, this bar might be your new favorite. The place offers all-day screening of major sporting events, plus themed cocktails and premium American pub food. You can expect the typical Hard Rock aesthetic mixed with a few local specialties like the “Cali Slammer” drink and a playlist featuring rock bands from LA.
The new bars that have opened or are yet to open in California in 2025 have something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a cozy cocktail bar where you can hang out with friends, a sports spot, or a more upscale place to take your date, you can count on good drinks and friendly service in the bars we listed above. Each of them offers a different experience in a memorable setting. The choice is yours.
