Paul’s Tavern in Mission Hills does the basics right. The drinks are cheap, there are string lights glowing inside the space, and the pool tables get prominent placement inside. Come in, grab a pint or three, watch some TV, and enjoy.

The Copper Bucket is a Reseda staple, first opened in 1951. Drinkers still come through for the delightfully kitschy wood paneling, neon signs, and weekend crowds.

Though some dive bars pride themselves on avoiding karaoke, the Good Nite embraces it. Its success is dependent on reasonably priced drinks and a masterful karaoke DJ. The former is always a welcome sight, and the latter keeps potentially cringeworthy performances at bay. Though dive-y, the Good Nite’s setup feels like a lounge, so select a drink and a song, and nab a taco from one of the vendors out front.

Jumbo’s is LA dive bar royalty. Part non-nude live dancer spot, part Thai Town pregame destination, this is the place to take out of towners or meet friends. Frankly, there’s no way to do Jumbo’s wrong — unless you try to take a picture inside, of course.

Hollywood's essential dive bar only gets better as the place gets more crowded. While the drinks are strong and cheap, the scene is the main draw, with everyone from scenesters to old-timers mixing and enjoying the general revelry.

Not all Irish bars are created equal. At Molly Malone’s, a Fairfax institution for more than half a century, the focus is on pub fare and pints, of course, but the bar is also a legendary spot to catch up and coming musical acts before they make it big.

This Koreatown classic seems to be lifted straight out of the late ‘60s, with a convivial after-work and early evening crowd. The food probably won't wow, but the drinks are dirt cheap and the old maritime vibes will feel just right while taking down a few beers.

Don’t overlook the magic of this longtime haunt. Stationed next to Chef Marilyn’s on the border of Jefferson Park and West Adams, the Living Room keeps the vibe chill as DJs spin old-school grooves. A jazz band performs the blues on Sunday nights.

Hinano is a staple beachside dive bar, the kind of sandy spot that visitors and locals love equally. From the simple burgers made behind the bar to the friendly staff and proximity to the sun and surf, Hinano is pure LA. 

One of Downey’s best places to drink is the Glen, a simple spot for pool, karaoke, and suds. The few-frills environment doesn’t fall victim to the usual trappings of a dive bar — no dusty lampshades or weird old art — and instead focuses on a good time for all.

There’s a come one, come all kind of feel to this Hawthorne hangout, where the bar tops are worn, the lights always have a touch of neon, the pool tables get heavy action, and more often then not the beers come with a shot on the side.

Dive bars don't get much older (or more famous) than Joe Jost's, a Long Beach essential for going on 100 years. Yes, the place is that old — and that cool.

Long Beach’s Mineshaft is a special place. Since 1977 the bar (yes, it actually looks like a mine shaft, complete with exposed wooden beams) has been a haven for LBC’s enduring queer scene, and comes complete with pool tables a photo booth, and more.