30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch American in West Hollywood
Best American in West Hollywood
Master Critic Review
The Tower Bar
8.5
Since 1931, this Art Deco landmark at the Sunset Tower Hotel serves California bistro fare with Italian touches amidst Old Hollywood glamour. The poolside terrace and skyline views complement classic dishes like lobster tacos and carbonara while jazz duos provide the soundtrack nightly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Corn Tacos, Carbonara with Bacon Lardons, Roasted Chicken with Blue Cheese Ravioli
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 9
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Authentic Old Hollywood glamour with celebrity sightings guaranteed
Who should go: Power brokers and romantics seeking timeless elegance
When to visit: Sunset cocktails on the terrace, 5-7pm
What to order: Lobster tacos, martinis, chocolate bread pudding
Insider tip: Dress code enforced - no shorts, sandals, or baseball caps
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet only at $18, no self-parking available at hotel
Dress code: Upscale smart casual required - collared shirts for men, no athletic wear, sandals, or hats allowed inside
Noise level: Moderate - intimate enough for conversation with subtle jazz backdrop
Weekend wait: Reservation essential - walk-ins rarely seated
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min for terrace seating without reservation
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 refined options beyond salads
Vegan options: Very limited - chef can modify 2 pasta dishes on request
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates with advance notice
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect if you want to impress - the romantic terrace views and Old Hollywood ambiance set an unforgettable scene, though the celebrity-watching crowd can be distracting
Can I get a table without a reservation? Nearly impossible for dinner - try the bar for cocktails and small plates, or book 2-3 weeks ahead for prime terrace tables
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for children - sophisticated adult atmosphere with strict dress code, better for teens 14+ who appreciate the Hollywood history
Best For
Better for: Unmatched Hollywood glamour and celebrity sightings that Chateau Marmont can't match, plus better food than most hotel restaurants
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine or casual vibes - choose Republique for innovative dishes or Jon & Vinny's for relaxed excellence
Hours
Monday7am - 10pm
Tuesday7am - 10pm
Wednesday7am - 10pm
Thursday7am - 11pm
Friday7am - 11pm
Saturday7am - 11pm
Sunday7am - 3pm