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Searching for unique bars near the Kia Forum in Inglewood can feel like chasing a unicorn. While the area doesn’t boast a long list of iconic watering holes reminiscent of places like Dixie Chicken or Liberty Bar, it does offer a selection of hidden gems with distinctive vibes, delicious drinks, and great food. Whether you’re attending a concert, a sports event, or just exploring the vicinity, these standout venues will elevate your evening. Here’s your insider guide to finding the best bars near the Kia Forum.
Cork & Batter: Rooftop Chic Close to the Action
Distance: Only 0.5 miles from Kia Forum, Cork & Batter is a convenient spot to grab drinks before or after an event.
- Unique Features: Spread across multiple levels, this trendy spot boasts a rooftop bar with city views, a casual yet lively atmosphere, and a welcoming cocktail menu. Bonus: They host daily happy hours from 3-6 PM, making it ideal for pre-event meetups.
- Menu Vibes: The kitchen caters to a wide range of tastes, offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and classic pub-style meals. Imagine sipping Moscow mules with truffle fries on the side.
- Pricing: Expect moderately priced cocktails around $10-$15. A full dinner and drinks for two would average $50-$70.
- Pro Tip: Make a reservation in advance. The bar fills up quickly during events at the Kia Forum!
1010 Wine & Events: A Celebration of Culture and Class
Distance: Located just 1 mile from Kia Forum, this charming wine bar is perfect for those seeking a more polished evening.
- Why It’s Special: 1010 Wine & Events is celebrated for its extensive selection of Black-owned wines. This bar regularly hosts tasting sessions, live music, and weekend brunches featuring bottomless mimosas. It’s a hotspot for anyone who enjoys a refined yet celebratory atmosphere.
- Food Delights: From seasonal charcuterie boards to fresh seafood and globally inspired dishes, this venue goes beyond traditional bar snacks. Don’t sleep on their prosciutto-stuffed date appetizers!
- Cost: Drinks are priced at roughly $15-$20 per glass of premium wine. Food offerings fall into the upscale range but are worth it for the quality and presentation.
- Plan Ahead: With its popularity and chic vibe, reservations are recommended. You can make yours here.
Studio 12 Bar & Lounge: Effortless Elegance at the Renaissance Hotel
Distance: Around 2.5 miles from Kia Forum, located inside the Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel.
- Atmosphere: Studio 12 Bar & Lounge combines the casual ease of a hotel bar with a chic, intimate vibe. It’s the kind of place you can unwind with expertly crafted cocktails before or after an event.
- Drink and Snack Offerings: Expect hotel-standard pricing here with drinks ranging from $10-$18. They offer a lighter menu of snacks and bites—great for guests who don’t want a full meal but crave something savory.
- Low-Key Crowd: If you’re looking for a quieter spot to decompress with friends or family, Studio 12 is hands-down one of the better options close to the Forum. Check availability and details via their official website.
What About Local Dive Bars? Exploring the Charm Nearby
It’s true that Inglewood doesn’t feature bars with the same notoriety as Dixie Chicken or Liberty Bar, but if you’re willing to explore slightly further out, you can uncover plenty of lively options:
- Meet in Santa Monica: Just a short drive away, Santa Monica offers a wealth of iconic dive bars like Father’s Office for craft beer lovers (Father’s Office).
- Experience Venice Beach: Try High Rooftop Lounge for laid-back drinks with an ocean view (High Rooftop Lounge).
Both options give you the cozy, unique charm that Dixie Chicken fans may be searching for, albeit with a coastal California twist.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Spot
- Use Yelp or Google Maps: These platforms are great for finding customer reviews, detailed photos, and up-to-date menus for bars near the Forum.
- Plan Ahead: Popular venues closer to the Forum, like Cork & Batter and 1010 Wine, fill up fast on event nights, so making plans in advance is highly advisable.
- Ridesharing is Key: Driving is tricky around the Forum due to traffic and limited parking. Opt for Uber or Lyft, especially if you plan to indulge.
Conclusion: A New Adventure Awaits Near the Kia Forum
While Inglewood may not offer a direct equivalent to Dixie Chicken, it’s far from lacking in charm and quality. From the sleek rooftop atmosphere of Cork & Batter, to the cultural uniqueness of 1010 Wine & Events, and the effortless allure of Studio 12 Bar & Lounge, the options are worth discovering. Use these recommendations to create a night to remember, and who knows? You might even stumble upon your new favorite spot!
Ready to plan your night out? Visit each venue’s website linked above to secure your reservations today and elevate your evenings near the Kia Forum.
Notes: Meta description: Discover unique and trendy bars near the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. From rooftop gems to upscale wine bars, find the best places for food, drinks, and great vibes. Tags: Kia Forum bars, bars near Inglewood, Cork & Batter, 1010 Wine & Events, Studio 12 Lounge, best bars in Inglewood, top Inglewood watering holes, unique bars near Kia Forum, trendy bars in Inglewood, Inglewood nightlife tips. Longtail tags: rooftop bars near Kia Forum, Black-owned wine bars in Inglewood, bars with live music near Kia Forum, happy hour in Inglewood near Kia Forum, where to drink near the Kia Forum.
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