0 Followers
La Cita
Master Critic Review
La Cita
7.8
La Cita is a decades-old Latin nightclub and dive bar just off Hill Street, famous for its daily 4–9pm happy hour, micheladas, and weekend cumbia and DJ nights. While the focus is music and drinks, the bar food—think burgers and hot dogs—helps soak up rounds of discounted beer and cocktails on the patio and dance-floor-adjacent bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bison Burger with Fries, Michelada with House Mix, Build-Your-Own Bloody Mary
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.2
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Long-running Latin dance bar with one of DTLA’s longest happy hours and a patio built for loud nights.
Who should go: Groups wanting cheap drinks, music, and dancing downtown
When to visit: Arrive during 4–9pm happy hour then stay for late-night sets
What to order: Bison burger, michelada, build-your-own Bloody Mary
Insider tip: Start on the back patio for happy hour, then move inside once the DJ or band starts to avoid re-entry lines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hill and surrounding blocks is limited after 7pm; most guests use nearby paid lots ($8–$15) or rideshare.
Dress code: Casual leaning nightlife-friendly; jeans and sneakers are fine, but many dress up slightly for DJ nights and cumbia events.
Noise level: Loud after 8pm when DJs or bands start; conversation on the patio is possible during early happy hour but tough indoors later.
Weekend wait: No formal dinner service, but expect a 10–20 minute line after 10pm for live music nights.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — bar opens later; early happy hour (4–6pm) typically has no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — bar snacks like fries, chips, and a possible veggie dog depending on availability.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect basic sides only; not a strong fit for plant-based diners.
Gluten-free options: Minimal — drinks are the safest bet; no dedicated gluten-free prep or labeling.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a high-energy, dive-bar setting; the loud music and dancing work better for fun, unstructured dates than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations. Arrive by 6pm for easy patio seating; after 9pm, it becomes standing-room-heavy, especially on themed nights.
Is it kid-friendly? No — it’s a 21+ nightlife venue with loud music, a full bar, and late-night crowds.
Best For
Better for: Long happy hours, lively Latin music, and a dance-focused atmosphere that’s more energetic and unpretentious than most DTLA nightlife spots.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, substantial food options, or a more upscale cocktail environment — nearby lounges and gastropubs will serve those needs better.