Address: 3413 Cahuenga Blvd.North Hollywood, CA 90068
323.882.6965
The Basics: Who said the best hip and cool lounges where located in the WeHo/ Downtown LA area? Nowadays many cities in the Gateway and surrounding areas are stepping their game up. While “Minibar” in North Hollywood looks like it belongs on the trendy WeHo area, you’ll be glad it’s not there. “Minibar” is indeed trendy, yet it has a comfy vibe that you can hardly get in other areas. Its décor is simple yet modern, chic and very sexy. While “Minibar” can be a bit of a drive, its location makes it totally worth it since it’s pretty much down the street from Universal City Walk. This joint is more of a group hangout, not recommended for a date- at least not a “first date”.
“Minibar” is pretty low-key while still being stylish, its dim lighting, funky art and 60’s motif with a splash of modern elegance really creates a chill ambiance.
What to drink: While “Minibar” is not located in WeHo, the drinks seem to be prized accordingly- ranging between $10 and $15 bucks. They’re very well spent though- they drinks are well done and the mojitos are to die for. You’ll find the biggest selection of mojito flavors ever. The passion fruit is a top fave, but you can try other flavors like pineapple, pomegranate, coconut, mango, and the classic mint mojito.
Hungry?
If you’re hungry, don’t grab a Snickers; instead, order something from their tapas menu- full of small bites bursting with freshness and flavor.
The tapas at “Minibar” are not exclusively Spanish; they include a wide array of offerings and flavors.
My peeps and I went for the “wings marrakesh”, “veal meatballs”, and the “duck comfit mini egg rolls”.
The “wings marrakesh” had a nice flavor to them- Moroccan spiced chicken wings glazed with a pomegranate-orange reduction como para chuparse los dedos.
Now the “veal meatballs” were a good surprise- the ground veal was spiked with some chorizo in a rich tortilla brood made them unusual yet memorable.
The “duck comfit mini egg rolls” on the other hand were good but not great, if it wasn’t because of the excellent spicy peanut sauced they came with, they would have been a disaster.
Overall, “Minibar” is a chill place to relax and hang out, but only if you’re in the area. Kudos to the staff though- the service is warm and friendly, a rare find in the Hollywood area.
