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ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour in Downtown LA
Best Happy Hour Wings in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Far Bar
7.9
An Asian-fusion gastropub housed in Little Tokyo's historic Far East Building, built around shareable plates like pozole ramen and bacon fried rice that lean into cross-cultural mashups rather than playing it safe. The open-air alley patio with a 13-foot projection screen and a deep Japanese whiskey list make it a natural landing spot for groups who want to eat, drink, and stay loud on a weekend night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wasabi Fries, Bacon Fried Rice, Pozole Ramen
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Asian-fusion gastropub in Little Tokyo's historic Far East Building with an open-air alley patio and deep Japanese whiskey selection
Who should go: Groups seeking craft drinks and shareable Asian-fusion bites
When to visit: Happy hour for best value; weeknights for patio seats
What to order: Start with Wasabi Fries for the table, split the Bacon Fried Rice and Pozole Ramen, add a sushi roll if your group is four or more
Insider tip: Grab a seat on the alley patio under the string lights — it's the best outdoor spot in Little Tokyo
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Self-parking available nearby; multiple flat-rate lots in Little Tokyo including the Aiso lot on Judge John Aiso St — expect $8-$10 flat rate evenings and weekends
Dress code: Dive-bar casual — shorts, sneakers, whatever you've got on; it's a laid-back Little Tokyo sports bar, not a dress-to-impress spot
Noise level: Lively to loud — DJ sets and live music nights push the volume up, and the alley patio with a 13-foot projection screen for sports adds energy; expect to raise your voice
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the outdoor alley patio strung with lights and framed by exposed brick walls sets a relaxed, low-key romantic mood. Noise is moderate; you can hold a conversation easily at a patio table away from the projection screen. It's more casual-cool than formal, so ideal for a first date where you want good drinks and Asian fusion bites without the pressure of a white-tablecloth setting. Weeknight happy hour (3–6pm) is a great low-commitment option.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Most of the time, yes. Far Bar operates primarily as a walk-in spot. Weeknights and early weekend afternoons are easy. Friday and Saturday evenings it gets crowded — expect a wait for patio seating during peak hours. For groups of 6+, calling ahead at (213) 617-9990 is strongly recommended. No formal online reservation system for regular dining.
Is it kid-friendly? No — Far Bar is a craft cocktail and beer-focused bar with late-night hours (open until midnight or later). There is no dedicated kids menu or mention of high chairs. The atmosphere caters to adults with DJ nights, live music, and a projection screen for sports. If visiting Little Tokyo with family, this is better suited for an adults-only outing.
Is it good for groups? Yes — one of the best group options in Little Tokyo. The spacious patio accommodates large parties comfortably. For bigger events, there's a private upstairs space that fits 50, and combined areas can handle up to 150 for private parties with full catering. For groups of 6+, call ahead to arrange seating. For private events, book well in advance through their events team.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a signature alley patio with string lights, exposed brick surrounds, and a large projection screen at the far end for sports. The patio is dog-friendly and serves as the main dining and socializing area. It's uncovered, so best on dry evenings. Comfortable year-round in LA's climate. This is the highlight of the venue — request patio seating.
Best For
Better for: Casual groups who want craft beers, Asian fusion bar bites, and a patio vibe — the outdoor alley space with string lights is the main draw, especially for happy hour or catching a game on the big screen
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, intimate dinner conversation — between the DJ nights, sports screenings, and general bar energy, this is not the place for that
Hours
Monday3pm - 12am
Tuesday12pm - 12am
Wednesday12pm - 12am
Thursday12pm - 12am
Friday12pm - 1:30am
Saturday12pm - 1:30am
Sunday12pm - 12am