This downtown drinking den is still a great locals bar while having some of the best cocktails in town. The pretension simply isn't there, just belly up to the bar and order something from the classic recipe-based menu, or whatever you're feeling at the moment. For something more, say agave, there's Las Perlas across the street.

This crowded beer and whiskey bar in Santa Monica has resisted any and all attempts of refinement, and that's a good thing for imbibers looking for a good time. The Scotch menu in particular is impressive.

A classic Tiki bar that's been around for decades, the drinks are stiff and cheap at Tonga Hut. Though a trek for most people in the main part of L.A., it's an easy hike for those in the lower Valley. For something else tiki in the Valley, try Tiki No in North Hollywood.

As nice of a local dive as you could get, the pretension is nowhere to be found at this bar, where the drinks are strong and relatively inexpensive for the ambiance, which is nice enough to actually have a decent date. But Thanksgiving Eve isn't for dates, it's for revelry, and the place sure fits the bill. For a different scene, there's always Bar Stella at Sunset Junction.

The westerly outlet of Bigfoot Lodge is campground and cabin done right, with solid cocktails and a fun atmosphere to boot. And for something festive and seasonal, try the toasted marshmallow, basically a campfire version of the white russian. For some more serious cocktails, walk over to Oldfield's nearby.

Though the beers tends to get first draw here, there's a full bar for people who aren't necessarily down the carb load of brews. The gin & tonics and other well drinks get a strong hand for not too much dough. Always a good recipe. If the scene's not for you, bounce over to York, where you can try drinks at The York.

This legendary seaside dive is still going strong after decades of business. While you're bound to see a celebrity or two, the scene is going to be great no matter what, so bring along a load of friends and party hard.

The rock & roll ambiance of Jones is hard to deny when you're looking to have a good time. The food here is pure comfort, from the pizzas and pastas to the legendary apple pie. Drinks are reasonably priced too, which makes Jones a great place to waste away the hours on Thanksgiving Eve. Formosa, right across the street, is also a nice place to wander to afterwards.

The Westside has plenty of quasi-cocktail bars that make decent drinks in a cheerful place, and the Wellesbourne certainly feels that way. There's a large shuffle board, loud music, and plenty of seating in the expansive space. For something different, trek over to Sawtelle and try out some late night karoake.

This longtime pub in the heart of Downtown's Financial District makes for great place to have some beers or sip on a cocktail, without the bother of a legitimate cocktail bar. The food isn't half bad either, plus there are other bars to wander too if the scene gets old, like The Standard or Perch.

Hollywood's essential dive bar only gets better as the place gets more crowded. While the drinks are strong and cheap, the scene is what's the main draw, with everyone from scenesters to old-timers mixing and enjoying the general revelry. Bounce over to nearby Burgundy Room for another classic Hollywood dive experience.

This is where the South LA and Mid-City hipsters like to congregate, and for good reason. The vibe can range from chill to decently excitable, depending on the night of the week. And Thanksgiving weekend should provide plenty of that. Also nearby, Father's Office, if it's not too late.