As one of the few places in LA housing bratwurst, beer and waitresses in lederhosen, Red Lion Tavern stands out even amongst its eclectic Silver Lake counterparts.

The theme is reinforced with a chalet-like interior, servers in dirndl dresses and European keyboard music. This is a jewel for beer-lovers looking for a departure from the usual dive bar. There are two floors, each with a bar, dining area and plethora of German memorabilia and beer steins. Up a few more steps is the beer garden, a patio that welcomes trendy locals and low-key regulars. The menu of passable Teutonic fare includes schnitzel and sauerbraten. Neophytes love the sausage plate, featuring a selection of everything ending in wurst, but we usually eat before we go. The Red Lion is hugely popular after Dodger games, but the extensive beer menu and rockin' rooftop patio make it a safe bet any day of the week. —LA.com