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ZipPicks Awards
Best Trendy American in Studio City
Best Business Lunch American in Studio City
Best French Fries in Studio City
Best Burgers in Studio City
Master Critic Review
Laurel Tavern
8.1
Classic American tavern with elevated pub fare, craft cocktails, and a lively bar scene popular with entertainment industry locals. The burger program stands out with custom blends and creative toppings, while the full bar serves serious cocktails beyond typical sports bar offerings. Dimly lit, wood-heavy interior creates an upscale neighborhood hangout vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Laurel Burger, Mac and Cheese, Fried Chicken Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Upscale tavern atmosphere with serious burger program and craft cocktails
Who should go: Industry locals and burger enthusiasts seeking elevated pub vibes
When to visit: Happy hour weekdays or weekend dinner with reservation
What to order: Laurel burger medium-rare, truffle mac, craft cocktail
Insider tip: Bar seating offers best people-watching and fastest service
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, competitive after 6pm. Arrive 10 mins early or use nearby lot on Ventura ($8-10)
Dress code: Casual-smart, jeans welcome but step it up from gym wear
Noise level: Lively but conversational - you can hear your date, louder near bar
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation after 7pm, reserve ahead
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, bar seating always available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie burger, salads, pasta options available
Vegan options: Limited - 1-2 modified salads, ask server for accommodations
Gluten-free options: Yes - GF buns available, several naturally GF options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - dimly lit, conversation-friendly booths, upscale enough to impress without being stuffy. Reserve a table away from the bar area for better ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6pm) usually work. Weekend dinners get packed - reserve or expect 45+ min wait. Bar seating is first-come, first-served and moves faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and up. No kids menu, bar-centric vibe, noise level not ideal for young children. If bringing kids, go early (before 6pm) and sit away from bar.
Good for watching sports? Yes - multiple TVs at the bar, but this isn't a rowdy sports bar. Great for catching a game with good food, not ideal for large playoff watch parties.
How's the happy hour? Strong option - discounted craft cocktails and bar bites weekdays 4-7pm. Bar fills up with industry crowd, arrive by 5pm for seats.
Best For
Better for: Choose Laurel Tavern when you want elevated pub food and craft cocktails over typical sports bar fare, or when the entertainment industry crowd-watching appeals. The burger program specifically outshines generic gastropubs in the area.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, romantic dinner (too lively), need extensive vegan options, are bringing young kids, or want a rowdy sports bar atmosphere. Also skip if parking stress ruins your mood - it's competitive here.
Hours
Monday12pm - 11pm
Tuesday12pm - 11pm
Wednesday12pm - 12am
Thursday12pm - 12am
Friday12pm - 1am
Saturday12pm - 1am
Sunday12pm - 11pm