The Wolves feels like it’s from another century, yet the cocktails are some of the most modern and inspired in town.
Large wood doors and stained glass make the entrance to The Wolves difficult to miss. It is located along a stretch of Main St. in Downtown Los Angeles’s Historic Core that has quickly been filled with hip restaurants and bars. And yet, despite the flourishing neighborhood’s many takes on classic international themes, The Wolves manages to stand out. It took three years to build and decorate the Parisian-style salon and it’s the bar and eatery’s attention to detail and craft that make it truly unique among a continually improving DTLA scene.
The bar is filled with antiques and period-authentic pieces, including large wrought iron lamps that sit along the wood and marble bar. The Wolves took the time to restore original elements of the Alexandria Hotel (built in 1911), and brass embellishments are thoughtfully placed throughout the space. The stained glass ceiling is a wonder in its own right, while a small spiral staircase leads to a cozy seating area looking over the front bar.
Another bar sits at the back of the space, which is more than necessary considering the crowd it pulls in even on weeknights. There are a large number of tables for those looking to have private conversations while dining on a variety of rich menu items. Truffle pomme frites and bone marrow are sumptuous options that play well to the lavish surrounding scene, while a hanger steak and halibut provide weightier options for those looking for something substantial to pair with one of the bar’s impeccably crafted cocktails.
The Wolves’ care for craft is highlighted even further when it comes to their beverages. All the Amari, vermouths, bitters, and liqueurs used in drinks are made in-house, which is even more impressive once the sheer size of their cocktail menu and the varied types of concoctions available are viewed. Happy hour finds a few cocktails running for $10, while beers are $5 and wine is $8. If you’re looking for something full and bright, we recommend the Pomegranate & Grapefruit. Complex and bursting with ripe fruit flavors, the drink seems almost like a classy play on a rum punch with its nutmeg fragrance.
The Wolves is a high water mark for Downtown Los Angeles’s already impressive bar scene.
Find It At:
519 S Spring St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
