Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best American in LA Arts District Best Late Night Restaurants in LA Arts District

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Sam's Hofbrau 7.7
Downtown LA
A 1960s-era cafeteria counter that carves roast beef and turkey to order, operating as a late-night gathering point in downtown LA's industrial corridor where cheap plates and loud DJ sets draw post-midnight crowds. The draw is the combination of old-school carved meat at cafeteria prices and a high-energy room that keeps going when most kitchens have closed—though street parking is strongly recommended over the on-site valet operation.
Must-Try Dishes: Carved Roast Beef Plate, Carved Turkey Plate, Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 7 Consistency: 7.5 Food Quality: 7.8 Atmosphere: 7.5 Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Old-school 1960s-era cafeteria-style carved meat counter operating as a late-night landmark near downtown LA's industrial corridor
Who should go: Late-night crowds seeking cheap eats and live entertainment
When to visit: Late night after 10 PM for the full experience
What to order: Go straight to the carving station for roast beef or turkey; pizza is the grab-and-go option
Insider tip: This is a strip club with a cafeteria counter — come for the scene, not a sit-down dinner
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available; private lot on-site ($20); valet offered but multiple reports of aggressive attendants and vehicle theft—street parking recommended
Dress code: No formal dress code—ultra-casual dive bar atmosphere, come as you are
Noise level: Loud—DJ, blasting music, high-energy crowd; not a place for conversation
Weekend wait: Standing-room-only on peak nights; expect 30-40 minute waits without a reservation
Weekday lunch: Calm daytime vibe, walk right in with no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Salads (Caesar, mixed green, taco), fried zucchini, onion rings, cheese quesadilla, grilled cheese
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — this is a topless cabaret and sports bar, not a romantic dinner spot. The atmosphere is loud with DJs, large-screen TVs, and up to 60 dancers on a given night. Unless your date is specifically into the strip club scene, this is not where you want to make a first impression. Better suited for bachelor parties or a casual guys' night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible but risky on busy nights — you may end up standing. Table reservations are recommended and may carry a fee. Weeknights are more relaxed; weekends and event nights fill up. Open 11am to 2am daily, so afternoon visits are the easiest walk-in window.
Is it kid-friendly? No — strictly 21 and over. This is an adult cabaret with topless entertainment. No minors are admitted under any circumstances.
Is it good for groups? Yes — this is a go-to spot for bachelor parties and large group outings. The space is big enough to accommodate sizable parties with billiard tables and bottle service available. Specific max party sizes and private room availability are not confirmed online — call ahead for groups over 8 to arrange seating.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — heated and covered outdoor seating is available. Specific capacity and layout details are not confirmed online, but the covered and heated setup makes it usable year-round.
Best For
Better for: Bachelor parties, sports nights during Dodgers/Lakers season, happy hour ($3 beers + free buffet daily 4-7 PM), and anyone who wants cheap carved meats with a rowdy late-night crowd
Consider Alternatives If: You want quiet conversation, a refined date night, or prefer not to deal with $20 parking and cover charges that stack up fast

Hours

Monday11am - 2am
Tuesday11am - 2am
Wednesday11am - 2am
Thursday11am - 2am
Friday11am - 2am
Saturday11am - 2am
Sunday11am - 2am