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Met Her At A Bar
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Met Her At A Bar
8.6
Met Her At A Bar is a compact, high-energy brunch cafe known for crisp Belgian-style waffles, over-the-top breakfast plates, and steady lines down La Brea. Since opening in 2017, it’s become a go-to for locals who want sweet-and-savory brunch with strong coffee and a social, buzzy room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Belgian Waffle with Fried Chicken, Strawberry Nutella Waffle, Breakfast Sandwich on Brioche
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Line-worthy waffles and brunch plates in a tiny, lively cafe.
Who should go: Brunch hunters who don’t mind a wait and crowds.
When to visit: Weekday mornings or early weekends before peak rush.
What to order: Fried chicken waffle, strawberry Nutella waffle, latte.
Insider tip: Put your name in, then grab coffee nearby while you wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along La Brea and nearby side streets; meters can be tight during brunch rush. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual and photo-ready; most guests lean stylish but comfortable for daytime brunch.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours due to the tight interior and steady line outside.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; the restaurant is a brunch-focused daytime cafe.
Weekday lunch: 15–25 minutes depending on the rush; sometimes immediate seating before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of vegetarian-friendly waffles, toasts, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited; a few items can be modified but the menu leans heavily toward dairy and eggs.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free waffles; some lighter dishes can be adapted but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, energetic daytime date. The buzzy room and indulgent waffles give it a fun vibe, but the tight quarters and noise mean it’s better for relaxed, low-pressure meetups than intimate conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's entirely walk-in. Expect a wait on weekends; join the list early and plan to grab coffee nearby until your table is ready.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle crowds and tight seating. Younger children and strollers may find it challenging due to limited space.
Best For
Better for: Over-the-top Belgian waffles and a high-energy brunch scene that delivers strong sweets, strong coffee, and strong Instagram appeal.
Skip if: You prefer quiet brunches, need gluten-free waffles, or want guaranteed fast seating without a wait.
Met Her At A Bar
8.4
Since 2017, this Miracle Mile café from owners Vinny and Mindy Kinne has built a devoted following around Belgian waffles, La Colombe coffee, and all-day brunch plates. The narrow corner space feels like a social hub, with plates that lean indulgent and a steady stream of locals pairing waffles with mimosas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Belgian Waffle, Chicken and Waffles, Waffle Benedict
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Neighborhood brunch café centered on Belgian waffles and strong coffee.
Who should go: Brunch seekers who like lively rooms and big plates.
When to visit: Early weekends or late weekday mornings to dodge peak waits.
What to order: Chicken and waffles, a waffle benedict, and a La Colombe latte.
Insider tip: Come solo on a weekday, grab a counter seat, and treat it as your remote office with coffee refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Wilshire and adjacent residential blocks; spots are competitive on weekends but easier before 10am on weekdays.
Dress code: Casual and brunch-comfortable; athleisure, jeans, and light weekend wear all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate and lively—conversation is doable but expect an energetic brunch buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; brunch-focused café with limited evening service.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal waits, especially after the morning rush around 10:30–11:30am.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian waffle plates, omelets, toasts, and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides, fruit, and beverages; most core dishes rely on dairy and eggs.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—salads, egg dishes, and some proteins work; waffles are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you're aiming for a casual, fun, daylight date with great waffles and lively energy. Not ideal for intimate or quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in friendly. Expect waits of 20–45 minutes on weekends, but weekday mornings and lunch hours are usually quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids who can handle a tighter space and busy weekend crowds. High chairs are limited and stroller parking is tight.
Best For
Better for: Belgian-style waffles, upbeat brunch energy, and a social neighborhood vibe that feels more personal than larger brunch chains.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, gluten-free waffles, or a wide vegan selection—other breakfast spots in 90036 will fit those needs better.
Met Her At A Bar
8.4
Since 2017, this narrow La Brea café has built a devoted following around Belgian waffles, La Colombe coffee, and all-day brunch plates. The room hums with neighborhood energy, making it a go-to for indulgent waffles, benedicts, and mimosas in a lively setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken and Waffles, Waffle Benedict, Crunchy French Toast
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Waffle-focused neighborhood brunch café with strong coffee and energy.
Who should go: Brunch lovers who prefer lively rooms over quiet cafés.
When to visit: Early weekends or late weekday mornings to avoid long waits.
What to order: Chicken and waffles, a waffle benedict, and latte.
Insider tip: Join the waitlist online, then time your arrival for seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along La Brea; spots turn over but can be tight during peak brunch hours. Residential parking nearby is possible with attention to posted signs.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; athleisure, denim, and brunch-friendly outfits are all normal. No need to dress up unless you want photos for social media.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversations are doable but expect a constant brunch buzz, especially indoors.
Weekend wait: N/A – brunch-only café; expect weekend brunch waits of 30–60 minutes during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, often seated within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid coverage with vegetarian waffles, benedicts, salads, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited; a few items can be modified (e.g., fruit plates, some salads), but core dishes are dairy- and egg-forward.
Gluten-free options: Partial options; gluten-free waffles are occasionally available depending on the day, but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a casual first date if you’re aiming for a fun, lively vibe rather than quiet intimacy. The energy, waffles, and patio seating make it feel playful and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations are not standard here. Join the online waitlist if available and arrive a few minutes before your quoted time to improve your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy waffles and brunch plates. Space is tight inside, so strollers are easier to manage at off-peak times or on the patio.
Best For
Better for: Waffles, lively brunch energy, and social atmosphere—strong coffee and indulgent plates make it a standout for those who want a fun, photogenic brunch.
Skip if: You prefer quiet brunch settings, need extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or dislike waiting for a table during peak hours.
Met Her At A Bar
8.1
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Birthday & Celebration Central
Girls Night Out Approved
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Met Her At A Bar is a narrow, plant-filled waffle café where bridal parties, birthday crews, and friend groups line up for loaded Belgian-style waffles and bright brunch cocktails. The cute, photo-friendly room and accommodating service make it a go-to for daytime special occasions that don’t need white tablecloths.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken + Waffle with Thai-style fried chicken, Waffle Benedict with poached eggs and hollandaise, Nutella-and-berries style dessert waffle
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: A whimsical waffle-focused brunch spot where parties toast with coffee and mimosas.
Who should go: Brunch groups celebrating birthdays, showers, or bachelorette weekends.
When to visit: Earlier weekend mornings before peak lines and midday rush.
What to order: Chicken and waffles, a sweet waffle, cotton-candy style mimosa.
Insider tip: Aim for a smaller group or off-peak time if you want the best chance at a cozy indoor table plus patio time for photos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along La Brea and nearby residential streets; expect limited availability during peak brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual and photo-friendly; bright colors and brunch-ready outfits fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak brunch; conversation is possible but expect a busy, social room.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; the restaurant is brunch-focused and closes before dinner.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though small lines can form around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several waffles and breakfast plates can be ordered meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited — waffles are not vegan by default, but a few sides and drink options work.
Gluten-free options: Limited — no dedicated gluten-free waffle batter; ask staff for alternatives like egg dishes or lighter plates.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for casual daytime dates where a playful, lighthearted atmosphere fits. Not ideal for intimate or quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect to wait on weekends. Arrive before 10am for the shortest line, or consider weekday brunch for near-instant seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the upbeat energy, sweet waffles, and outdoor seating make it suitable for kids, though strollers can be tricky in the narrow interior.
Best For
Better for: Instagram-friendly brunch spreads, playful waffles, and celebratory daytime meetups that need a cheerful atmosphere.
Skip if: You want a quiet, refined brunch, vegan-friendly waffles, or a spot with extensive indoor seating for larger groups.
Met Her At A Bar
8.6
Met Her At A Bar is a tiny Mid-Wilshire brunch café known for Belgian waffles, long weekend lines, and a sidewalk scene where dogs nap under closely packed tables. Locals come for sweet-and-savory plates, La Colombe coffee, and a buzzy, photo-friendly atmosphere that still feels like a neighborhood hangout.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy French Toast with Nutella, Side of Fried Chicken with waffles, Cotton Candy Mimosa
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A packed Belgian waffle café where brunch, coffee, and dogs spill onto La Brea’s sidewalk.
Who should go: Brunch crews who don’t mind a wait and love waffles.
When to visit: Early weekend mornings before peak lines and midday rush.
What to order: Crispy French Toast, fried chicken with waffles, cotton candy mimosa.
Insider tip: Ask for an outside two-top so your dog can settle under the table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along La Brea and nearby residential blocks; spots turn over quickly but can be tight during brunch rush.
Dress code: Casual and brunch-friendly; athleisure, sundresses, and jeans are all common.
Noise level: Moderate outdoors with sidewalk traffic; indoors can get lively but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — the café closes before dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Usually a short wait or immediate seating, especially before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several waffles, salads, and breakfast plates can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items can be modified but it’s not a dedicated vegan brunch spot.
Gluten-free options: Some GF-friendly dishes available, though cross-contact is possible due to the small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for a casual, daytime vibe — the sidewalk tables and busy brunch atmosphere make it relaxed rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they operate primarily on walk-ins. Expect a line on weekends, but weekday mornings and lunches are approachable.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families often stop by for waffles, though the small space and sidewalk seating mean strollers may require a bit of maneuvering.
Best For
Better for: Creative waffles, dog-friendly sidewalk seating, and a cheerful brunch scene with photo-friendly dishes.
Skip if: You want fast service, no wait, or a more spacious setting — the café is compact and busiest on weekend mornings.
Met Her At A Bar
8.3
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Trendy Table Hotspots
Birthday & Celebration Central
Met Her At A Bar is a narrow Belgian waffle café where weekend lines, floral plates, and farmers-market produce make brunch feel like an event. Since opening in the late 2010s, it has become a staple for loaded waffles, crispy French toast, and brunch cocktails served in a bright, photo-friendly room that spills onto the sidewalk. The energy stays high, but staff remain impressively upbeat and accommodating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy French Toast, Chicken and Waffles, Half Burrito Half French Toast
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A waffle-focused brunch café where lines, plating, and vibes all pop.
Who should go: Brunch lovers who enjoy waiting for a lively, pretty scene.
When to visit: Early weekend mornings or late afternoons to soften the wait.
What to order: Crispy French toast, chicken and waffles, half burrito-half French toast.
Insider tip: Join the waitlist as soon as you park and order coffee while you wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along La Brea and side streets; spots turn over but can be tight during peak brunch hours. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and camera-ready; most guests lean toward weekend-brunch cute (jeans, dresses, light layers).
Noise level: Moderate-high during peak brunch; conversations are possible but expect a lively, buzzy room.
Weekend wait: N/A — this is a daytime-focused café and typically closes before dinner.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; usually 0–10 minutes outside peak brunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options, including sweet waffles, avocado toast variations, and several egg plates.
Vegan options: Limited; a few items can be modified, but the menu leans heavily on dairy and eggs.
Gluten-free options: Some plates can be adapted, but no dedicated gluten-free waffle batter; cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, fun brunch date if you enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind waiting; less ideal if you want a quiet, intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Join the waitlist as soon as you park; waits can exceed 45 minutes on weekend mornings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Kids who enjoy waffles and sweet brunch plates will be happy; space is tight inside, so strollers are easier to manage on the sidewalk tables.
Best For
Better for: Highly photogenic brunch plates, loaded waffles, and a buzzy weekend scene that feels celebratory without being expensive.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, need extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or prefer taking your time at a spacious table.
Met Her At A Bar
8.2
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Trendy Table Hotspots
Birthday & Celebration Central
Met Her At A Bar is a narrow Belgian waffle café and brunch spot that builds its menu around farmers-market fruit, herbs, and dairy for a brunch-leaning farm-to-table experience. Plates lean indulgent but ingredient-focused, with seasonal toppings and Thai-influenced fried chicken that keep the tiny dining room and sidewalk patio packed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried chicken & waffles, White Truffle Toast, Nutella waffle
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A story-driven waffle café that turns farmers-market ingredients into playful, photogenic brunch plates.
Who should go: Brunch fans who enjoy creative waffles and don’t mind a wait.
When to visit: Early weekend mornings or off-peak weekdays to avoid two-hour lines.
What to order: Fried chicken & waffles, White Truffle Toast, Nutella waffle.
Insider tip: Join the waitlist, then explore nearby shops or grab coffee while you wait for your text.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking along Beverly Blvd and residential streets; spots turn over slowly during peak brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual and brunch-forward; athleisure, jeans, and sundresses all fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak brunch rush; indoor tables can feel tight but still allow basic conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — the restaurant operates primarily as a daytime brunch spot.
Weekday lunch: Usually a short wait or immediate seating, especially before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several waffles, toasts, and salads can be made vegetarian or already are.
Vegan options: Limited — a few sides and modified plates may work, but most signature items rely on dairy-heavy batters.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — they offer gluten-free waffle options occasionally, but cross-contact is likely due to the small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime dates — the vibe is cheerful, lively, and low-pressure, though the tight space and long waits may not suit a quieter or more intimate first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Expect a wait on weekends, but joining the digital waitlist allows you to wander nearby until your table is ready.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with younger kids who like waffles and casual dining; no dedicated kids’ menu, but portions and layout work well for strollers on the patio.
Best For
Better for: Playful, farmers-market-driven waffles and photo-friendly brunch plates served in a lively, energetic setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, a reservation-based experience, or robust vegan and gluten-free options.