Edison Lounge
Photo: courtesy of the restaurant
Even in a recession, people like to drink. They just don't like to drink out as much, according to the just-released ninth edition of our Los Angeles Nightlife guide. We surveyed more than 1,750 locals on their after-dark habits and found that just over half of those surveyed are going out less, while only 13% are going out more. Not helping matters is the fact that LA is home to some of the most expensive drinks in the nation, averaging $11.66 a pop – higher than even New York ($11.27). Of course, you can still find a good bang for your buck, and for that our surveyors' top pick is Silver Lake's Intelligentsia. Meanwhile, they agree that the Hotel Bel-Air Bar is tops for Appeal and Service, while in the decor Department the title goes to Downtown's Edison Lounge.