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Desert 5 Spot
Master Critic Review
Desert 5 Spot
7.7
Desert 5 Spot is a 1970s desert motel-inspired rooftop bar and taco spot atop the tommie Hollywood hotel, with live country-leaning music and neon-lit views. The menu leans into margaritas, nachos, and tacos rather than full entrées, but it’s one of the more distinctive, music-forward rooftop hangs in 90028.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cowboy Nachos, Carne Asada Tacos, Mushroom Al Pastor Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 7.5
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Rooftop honky-tonk with outlaw tacos, live bands, and Hollywood skyline views.
Who should go: Night owls chasing tacos, live music, and rooftop energy.
When to visit: Late evenings when the band, crowd, and lights kick in.
What to order: Cowboy Nachos, carne asada tacos, mushroom al pastor tacos.
Insider tip: Arrive early for tacos before the room turns full dance party.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet at the tommie Hollywood is typically available ($15–$20). Street parking on Selma and nearby corridors is limited and competitive after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual with a playful, slightly Western twist. Denim, boots, and going-out attire all fit; avoid overly formal wear.
Noise level: Loud once the band or DJ kicks in. Conversation is manageable early evening but becomes difficult later.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for entry during peak nights; line can form around 9:30–10pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — Desert 5 Spot operates evenings only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the mushroom al pastor tacos, chips, salsas, and some bar snacks work well.
Vegan options: Limited — mushroom al pastor tacos can be modified, but options are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — corn tortillas and several snacks are naturally gluten-free, but there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a high-energy, music-forward experience. The vibe is fun and lively, not intimate, so it suits extroverted or activity-driven dates more than quiet conversation nights.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — most seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early (before 8:30pm) for easier access; later in the night it becomes standing-room with bar lines.
Is it kid-friendly? No — it’s a bar-centric, nightlife-driven rooftop with live music and a late-night crowd. Best for adults 21+.
Best For
Better for: One of the strongest choices in 90028 for live country-leaning music, themed nightlife energy, and casual tacos-with-a-view evenings.
Skip if: You want a quiet rooftop dinner, refined cocktails, or a full entrée-focused menu. Choose alternatives like Lemon Grove or Ka’teen for a more elevated dining experience.