Top Spots for Martinis and Manhattans

747 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

"Rumored to be 'the Banker' on "Deal or No Deal," Pete the bartender really makes the bar here. Crusty, gruff and a true New Yorker, the only thing he is gentle about is the stir he puts on the Manhattan. Smooth."

1800 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

"No, I am not afraid to walk into this dive-y bar on Hillhurst to order a martini. Jennifer pours 'em up in the big martini buckets--seems like it's a third of the bottle. It's the biggest martini in town with the smallest price at $6."

8479 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

"The newest and most dramatic cocktail program delivers. Yes, there is the more exotic here, but the staples, both the gin martini and Manhattan, shine. It's on the high end at $14, but the old school bowl stemware charms."

5018 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042 (map)

"Ex of Mixville (Edendale Grill's bar), Gabe and Ryan know their martinis. With vodka, yes, I prefer the twist. Gin, I prefer the olive. The $8 a throw is an added bonus and keeps it on the short list."

11359 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 (map)

"Rye. It's rye that makes the Manahattan and former Il Grano sommelier Peter Birmingham spent years sourcing and crafting it into a delicate balance with the Italian brandied cherries and peychaud's bitters. This is the No. 1 Manhattan in Los Angeles."

6602 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 (map)

"Another top cocktail program in L.A. Matt (ex-Hungry cat, Norman's under the tutelage of the above Peter B), along with Jennifer during the week, mix up a special concoction of 15-year Hirsch with a dabble of sweet vermouth and bitters. It's usually on my way home--I can't help it."