This quaint house-turned-bar brings a dash of Old Hollywood glamor to the South Bay.

Talk about unassuming: By the exterior, few could guess at the decadence found within this weather-worn shingled house by Manhattan Beach. Only the second-story stained-glass windows offer a hint of something more luxe inside. High-back antique velvet couches and candlelit tables inside the tiny two-room bar fill quickly, leaving only standing room for late arrivals on the weekends. The house and world music are infectious if too loud; customers are forced to raise their voices to be heard. The only escape is a smoke break outside or, for paying members and their friends, the exclusive 900 Club upstairs. —Sarah Spada