This intimate wine lounge has flown under the radar, relying on word of mouth to lure in Westsiders.

Located next to a 99 Cents Only Store, Air Conditioned is a fresh surprise on an otherwise dead street. (The first location opened in San Diego, and another venue is now open in Venice.) The drinks are the focus: The owners are particularly passionate about California wines, notably the fruity Rock Rabbit syrah. A glass of Damian Carneros sparkling rosé is less expensive than the bar's champagnes, but just as soft and velvety; the Han soju is for those looking for a sweeter cocktail-style drink. (The general manager comes up with interesting infusions on a weekly basis, like strawberry-pineapple and apple-cinnamon.) All the usual beer suspects are on tap—Guinness, Dos Equis and Stella Artois—as well as some rare finds like an IPA by Pasadena-based Brewery Craftsman. Thursdays, KCRW's Jason Kramer spins Latin jazz by the likes of Sergio Mendes, and a potent mix of reggae, ska and dancehall stream out of the speakers each Saturday. Rare groove and psychedelic soul tunes play on the other nights for regulars unwinding in spacious banquettes under hanging star-shaped lamps or mingling at the shiny, curved bar. Current top 40 is forbidden. —Alexandra Le Tellier